He emphasized that discussions at the dialogue will play a significant role in shaping policies aimed at revitalizing Ghana’s economy and fostering long-term growth.

In a Facebook post on Monday, March 3, Dr. Forson described the dialogue as a historic moment for the nation and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to engaging stakeholders in finding lasting solutions to the country’s economic challenges.

“I am excited that the historic National Economic Dialogue 2025 is starting this morning. Its outcomes will find clear expression in the upcoming national budget, which will be read on March 11, 2025, as we work together to reset Ghana’s economy and drive sustainable growth,” he wrote.

The National Economic Dialogue is expected to bring together policymakers, economists, business leaders, and civil society organizations to deliberate on key economic strategies.

With the minister’s assurance, there is growing anticipation that the 2025 budget will reflect concrete measures derived from the dialogue to ensure economic stability and progress.

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They have been asked to step aside, pending an appearance before the Regional Disciplinary Committee.

This was communicated in a letter signed by Upper East Regional NPP Chairman, Anthony Namoo, Esq.

The suspended executives include Awinimi Emmanuel – Constituency Communication Officer, Belingumse Sawuda – 2nd Vice Chairman, Haruna Salam – Assistant Secretary, Kazussah Jacob – Treasurer, Salifu Ibn Adam – Elections and Research Officer, and Iddrisu Kadiri – Deputy Nasara Coordinator.

Mr. Awinimi confirmed the development in an interview with Accra-based Citi News but stated that their offenses are yet to be communicated.

“When I opened the letter, they said they had suspended me as Communication Officer of the party in the constituency and that the Regional Disciplinary Committee will invite me. I said okay. So I took my letter. That is all I can say,” he said.

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President John Mahama has, for the first time, opened up about former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s congratulatory call following his victory in the 2024 elections.

According to him, he was asleep when the concession and congratulatory call came through.

The President recounted the profound moment during a fellowship with the clergy in Kumasi on Sunday, March 2, 2025.

He disclosed that he woke up after his aides informed him that he had an important call.

Confused by the urgency, he asked who wanted to speak to him, only to be told that it was his “brother,” the Vice President. He quickly freshened up before taking the call.

The President acknowledged that he had not anticipated such an early concession, as Ghanaians were still awaiting official results from the Electoral Commission (EC).

Mr. Mahama testified that Dr. Bawumia displayed statesmanship and humility in his words.

Dr. Bawumia, on December 8, 2024, conceded defeat—a move that earned him praise and admiration from many.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate stated that his decision was motivated by a desire to avoid further tensions and ensure peace in the country.

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These officers were elevated to the rank of directors by the Public Services Commission (PSC) without prior approval from then-President Nana Akufo-Addo.

The promotions were later revoked after the PSC failed to provide evidence of any presidential directive authorizing the appointments.

According to constitutional provisions, officers of public institutions can only be promoted to directorship positions by the president, acting on the advice of the governing board of the institution in consultation with the PSC.

However, investigations by Joy News revealed that the PSC undertook these promotions without approval from the presidency.

In response to these breaches, the PSC reversed the promotions two weeks ago through official revocation letters sent to the Acting CEO of the Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh Brown.

Despite the directive, Joy News investigations indicate that Dr. Brown has yet to implement the revocation by ensuring the affected officers return to their previous positions. As a result, the officers in question continue to perform duties as directors.

The affected officers include:

• Carl Ahadze – Manager, Compliance
• Christian Fumey-Nassah – Manager, Stakeholder and Ecotourism
• Yaw Kwakye – Operations Manager, Natural Forest
• Yaw Atuahene Nyarko – Production Manager, Resource Management Support Center (RMSC)

A letter dated December 4, 2024, and sighted by Joy News, was signed by Ing. (Mrs) Mabel Amoako-Atta of the PSC, promoting Yaw Atuahene Nyarko to Director at the RMSC. However, the PSC failed to provide evidence of presidential approval for the promotion, raising concerns over the process.

With the PSC reversing the promotions, it is expected that the Forestry Commission’s CEO would take appropriate action to allow due process, ensuring that President John Mahama appoints individuals he deems fit for these positions.

After 48 hours, Joy News is yet to receive a response from Dr. Brown, who had earlier promised to return their call within 15 minutes.

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The event, organised by the Parliamentary Training Institute (PTI), began on Saturday, March 1, 2025, and is expected to end on Monday, March 3.

The Minority, made up of New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs, refused to attend, citing concerns over the venue and associated expenses.

The Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, questioned the decision to hold the workshop outside Accra, arguing that using Parliament House would have been more cost-effective.

He referenced President John Mahama’s recent austerity measures—including reducing ministerial appointments and scaling back Independence Day celebrations—as reasons to prioritize fiscal discipline.

Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin described the boycott as regrettable and unjustified.

Mr. Bagbin defended the choice of venue, stating that a thorough assessment was conducted before selecting the Volta Serene Hotel.

The programme includes training in parliamentary procedures, lobbying, advocacy, and debating techniques to equip MPs for legislative work.

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She argued that when Ghana’s agreements with foreign investors are compared to those of other jurisdictions, it becomes evident that the country is being overly exploited.

Madam Akuffo, who currently serves on the Council of State, questioned why Ghana continues to enter contracts that grant foreign companies significant control over the country’s natural resources, often to the detriment of the nation.

Speaking in a recent media interview in Accra, she raised concerns about the policies guiding mineral resource extraction and the distribution of proceeds between the state and foreign investors. She described these agreements as woefully unfavorable to Ghana.

“Why are we still doing it like we are in the days of Guggisberg?” she queried, referencing colonial-era policies.

Her remarks formed part of broader concerns about issues the Council of State should focus on, beyond those presented by the President.

“What should be our policy on our natural resources? The things under our ground that we neither seed nor feed, yet belong to us entirely—why do we position ourselves to be exploited when it comes to making use of them?” she asked.

She emphasized that mining communities, despite hosting valuable resources, often remain underdeveloped, with little to no benefit from decades of mineral extraction.

“You wonder, and you end up with really pathetic towns where valuable minerals have been extracted for decades, even centuries. When you think of the amount of gold, diamond, or other resources mined over the years, you ask yourself—what went wrong? Why?” she stressed.

Madam Akuffo reiterated the need for a reassessment of Ghana’s approach to mineral resource management, calling for policies that ensure fair benefits for the country and its people.

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Speaking on JoyNews’ The Probe on Sunday, March 2, Assah described the dire situation, revealing that even the community cemetery had been affected.

“About 51 houses have been destroyed so far, 300 plus individuals displaced… the sea has taken about 63 tombs so far, and the remaining bodies that we were able to retrieve have been transferred to other cemeteries,” he said.

He warned that without the continuation of the sea defense project, more cemeteries and properties could be lost.

Assah further highlighted the community’s vulnerability, noting that residents now depend on the major road connecting Aflao and Anloga.

“We are hoping that if nothing is done to stop the ravages of the tidal waves, it won’t take away the only hope we have – our major road,” he stressed.

He called on the government and relevant authorities to intervene urgently to prevent further destruction and displacement.

Meanwhile, the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has declared a ‘state of emergency’ following extensive coastal erosion along the southern Volta.

High tides have continued to wash away communities in the Ketu South Municipality over the past seven days.

Gunu described the situation as a threat to national security and called for emergency interventions to curb the destruction and ensure the safety of affected residents.

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Cris Karl Ofori is accused of collecting the amount from the complainant, Amadu Seidu, with the promise of assisting him with visa acquisition.

Charged with defrauding by false pretences, he pleaded not guilty.

The court granted Mr. Ofori bail in the sum of GH¢350,000 with three sureties. Two of the sureties must be public servants earning not less than GH¢5,000, while the third must justify the bail with a title deed. The case has been adjourned to April 25, 2025.

The prosecution, led by Chief Inspector Kwadwo Aboagye, told the court that the complainant, a resident of Sampa in the Bono Region, intended to travel to Canada with his family to resettle.

In 2023, he discussed this with one Nana Abena Sika, who introduced him to the accused as someone who could assist with the visa process.

In October 2024, the accused asked the complainant to make an initial payment of GH¢80,000, which he did, along with three passport booklets—his own, his wife’s, and his daughter’s—to begin documentation.

Prosecution said the accused subsequently collected various sums from the complainant, totaling GH¢310,000.

Later, Mr. Ofori informed the complainant that the Canadian visa application was unsuccessful but claimed to have secured visas for the United Kingdom instead.

Based on this, he invited the complainant and his family to Accra to prepare for their supposed trip.

However, upon their arrival, the accused went into hiding for three days and could not be reached.

Realizing they had been deceived, the complainant and his family returned to Sampa and reported the matter to the police at James Town. The accused was later arrested from his hideout.

In his caution statement, Ofori admitted to the offence, according to the prosecution.

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Led by President John Mahama, the forum provides a platform to address pressing economic challenges and develop actionable solutions to drive sustainable growth.

The President will deliver a keynote address on the theme “Resetting Ghana: Building the Economy We Want Together.”

This initiative marks a significant step in fulfilling President Mahama’s campaign promise to involve citizens in shaping their economic future.

The dialogue aims to foster consensus and collaboration among stakeholders on priority policies and structural reforms.

The government has assured that the forum’s outcomes will set the country on a path to economic revitalization, improving business opportunities and living conditions nationwide.

Participants include key stakeholders from the private sector, academia, public policy institutions, and civil society organizations.

Discussions will focus on achieving sustainable macroeconomic stability, promoting economic transformation, advancing infrastructure development, implementing structural reforms, ensuring private sector-led growth, and restoring good governance while combating corruption.

The forum seeks to reset the economy, ensuring long-term resilience and transformative growth for the benefit of all Ghanaians.

A distinguished lineup of presenters, including Leslie Dwight Mensah, Prof. Ebo Turkson, Abena Osei-Poku, David Ofosu-Dorte, Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor, and Franklin Cudjoe, will share insights and policy recommendations.

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JoyNews can confirm that miners are now using excavators to mine directly in the Ankobra River Basin.

Erastus Asare Donkor reports that over a year of illegal mining, also known as galamsey, has turned the once-flowing river into a stagnant, polluted pool.

To assess the scale and impact of these activities, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources has assembled a special advisory team for a nationwide fact-finding mission.

At the Ankobra estuary, where the river meets the sea, high tide pushes seawater inland, momentarily masking the river’s pollution. But 40 minutes into a boat ride upstream, the true extent of the contamination becomes evident.

At Ehyeamu, mining operations encroach on the river, violating buffer zone policies. A miner, who identified himself as Lopez, showed documents for his concession but admitted to illegalities on-site.

At Awodua, near Prestea, illegal miners have completely blocked and contained the river for mining.

Even more alarming, at Prestea-Hemang, close to the bridge, miners have built embankments, halting the river’s flow entirely.

The once-vibrant Ankobra is now a stagnant, brown pool beneath the bridge—its waters trapped and exploited.

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In a petition launched on change.org, the association argues that the two appointees lack the necessary expertise and experience to lead the institution effectively.

“We, the undersigned members of the Association of Ghanaian Creatives, urge the government to appoint qualified, visionary leadership at the NFA. The institution must be led by a technocrat with deep industry knowledge, supported by a board of experienced creative professionals who can steer the sector toward revitalization and global competitiveness,” the petition states.

The group asserts that neither Kafui Danku nor James Gardiner possess the industry experience required to lead such a crucial institution.

They claim the duo’s background in low-budget productions and social media branding falls short of the strategic leadership needed to advance Ghana’s film industry.

They further compare these appointments to the tenure of former NFA leader Juliet Yaa Asantewaa Asante, describing her as a Harvard-trained industry expert who introduced groundbreaking initiatives and secured major distribution deals, including partnerships with MTN.

As an alternative, the association has proposed six film professionals whom they believe are better suited for the roles:

• George Bosompin – National Film Institute, GAFTA
• Jim Awindor – Film and television strategist
• Akofa Edjeani Asiedu – Veteran filmmaker and policymaker
• Professor Linus Abraham – Media and communication expert
• Akosua Abdallah – Film education and policy expert
• Nicole Amarteifio – Filmmaker and industry advocate

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The 26-year-old picked up the knock during Rayo Vallecano’s 1-1 draw with Sevilla in a Spanish La Liga clash on Saturday, March 1.

He was forced off in the 35th minute and replaced by Aridane Hernandez Umpierrez.

Before his early exit, Mumin put in a solid defensive shift, making a crucial goal-line clearance, an interception, and a blocked shot while completing 17 of his 21 attempted passes.

His injury raises concerns about his availability for Ghana’s Matchday Five and Six qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar.

The Black Stars are set to host Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on March 21 before traveling to Morocco to face Madagascar on March 24.

So far this season, Mumin has made 24 appearances for Rayo Vallecano, contributing two goals and an assist.

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Preston, the only Championship side left in the FA Cup, are at home to Unai Emery’s Aston Villa.

Fulham host Crystal Palace in a London derby.

And Brighton will be at home to either Nottingham Forest or Ipswich, who play their fifth-round tie on Monday.

Aside from 2023 victors Manchester City, Ipswich are the most recent FA Cup winners (1978) left in it.

Fulham, Palace, Bournemouth and Brighton have never won the cup.

“It’s very open now. What a chance for a team to go and win it,” said ex-Manchester City and Villa defender Micah Richards on BBC One.

“All the [other] big teams are out. Manchester City are obviously the strongest team left in there. This is what we wanted, teams to get a chance.”

The quarter-final ties will take place on the weekend of Saturday, 29 March.

Full FA Cup quarter-finals draw

Fulham v Crystal Palace

Preston v Aston Villa

Bournemouth v Manchester City

Brighton v Nottingham Forest or Ipswich

The Cottagers goalkeeper saved from Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee as Marco Silva’s men triumphed 4-3 on spot kicks after the tie had finished 1-1 following 90 minutes and extra time.

A turgid first 45 ended on a high note for the visitors as Calvin Bassey pounced at the far post to nod home a flick-on from a right-wing corner.

United toiled in search of an equaliser and pulled level to force extra time when Bruno Fernandes netted his eighth FA Cup goal in his last 12 outings in the competition.

The hosts brought on 17-year-old forward Chido Obi and he had a couple of chances to win it, but Fulham held on to take the tie to what proved to be a triumphant shoot-out.

Next up, United switch focus to their UEFA Europa League last 16 clash at Real Sociedad on Thursday prior to hosting Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday.

Fulham visit Brighton on Saturday and can look forward to an FA Cup quarter-final tie at home to Crystal Palace on the weekend of March 28-31.

Atletico Madrid had leapfrogged them following their 1-0 win over Athletic Club on Saturday.

However, Hansi Flick’s side easily restored their one-point advantage – and extended their winning run to six games – in the title race with goals from Gerard Martin, Marc Casado, Ronald Araujo and Robert Lewandowski.

Ninth-placed Sociedad, who face Manchester United in the last 16 of the Europa League on Thursday, 6 March, came out on top when the two sides last met in November, winning 1-0.

However, they were up always up against it at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys after defender Aritz Elustondo received a straight red card in the 17th minute for bringing down a goalbound Dani Olmo.

Barcelona capitalised on their advantage just eight minutes later, Lamine Yamal losing his marker in the box before combining with Olmo to pick out full-back Martin to finish at the back post.

Four minutes later, Olmo was once again involved, with his strike from the edge of the box deflecting in off Casado. For both Martin and Casado, it was their first Barcelona goals.

The hosts didn’t have to wait long for a third goal. Barely 60 seconds after Pedri had rattled the woodwork with a curling long-range effort, Araujo headed home an inswinging corner from Raphinha.

Poland striker Lewandowski sealed the rout on the hour mark, sticking out a foot to direct Araujo’s shot beyond a helpless Alex Remiro in the visiting goal.

The Magpies thought they had booked their place in the final seconds of normal time, but Fabian Schar’s cushioned volley was disallowed for offside by the video assistant referee (VAR).

Newcastle had taken a 22nd-minute lead through an Alexander Isak penalty, but Yankuba Minteh levelled just before half-time against the club that sold him in the summer.

Both teams had players sent off in a dramatic climax.

Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon was shown a straight red card in the 83rd minute for pushing Jan Paul van Hecke in the head – a decision that will rule him out of the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool through suspension.

Brighton defender Tariq Lamptey was then dismissed in added time at the end of 90 minutes for a second booking following a late challenge on Jacob Murphy.

The game looked as if it would be going to penalties before Solly March played in Welbeck with six minutes left and he calmly chipped home keeper Martin Dubravka to send the away fans wild.

It was Welbeck’s eighth goal of the season and the 34-year-old – who won the FA Cup twice with Arsenal – also netted the winner in Brighton’s Premier League game at Newcastle in October.

The Seagulls will discover their quarter-final opponents after Manchester United’s game with Fulham with the draw on BBC One.

In a Facebook post, Juliet revealed that at the start of her tenure, she had to fund the authority’s operations with her own money and office space.

She also recounted facing antagonism from the Board and experiencing sexual harassment from two of her superiors.

While advocating financial support for the newly appointed executives, she disclosed that the Bank of Ghana had cleared funds saved in the NFA’s account.

“The little money I raised for office and car by the end of last year has been cleared from the accounts by the Bank of Ghana before we could get the office and get the office vehicle,” she wrote.

Her revelations come just days after Kafui Danku was appointed as the new Executive Secretary of the NFA, with James Gardiner as her Deputy.

Read her full post below: 

TODAY IS ONE OF THE HAPPIEST DAYS OF MY LIFE… and this is why…

Take a seat…

In November, 2020, when I was asked by the Minister, to take the job of the Executive Secretary of the National film Authority, I accepted. Little did I envisage what was to follow…

With a paper in hand, but no office or money, I set out to recruit staff. With two staff members, we started the work. I took time to draft a strategy paper. But it became very clear, very quickly, that no one was interested and that this was going to be a very very long road…

In the first year, we were given 1000ghc ($100) for the entire year. Second year, 10,000ghc (about $1000 at the time). Neither me or my staff received pay for 2 years.

We had to shoulder the cost of running a Government office from our pockets. We worked from my home or the homes of other staff members. There was absolutely no one to show us the ropes of how to set up a new Government agency and while we were struggling to understand what to do and not to do… I was dealing with a very antagonistic board, that told me upfront that i wasn’t who they wanted.

The first activity we tried to do was gather data to understand the sector and problem we were dealing with. This activity was blocked by the board and almost everything after that was challenged or blocked. Board meetings were a sight to behold.  Thankfully, the Covid video took off and many Ghanaians found solace in the beautiful video giving hope to many, without realizing that it was from the newly formed National Film Authority. filmmakers contributed the video for free.

By then though,  the attacks were non stop, online and offline… Gush, there was a day I was attacked for 5 hours by a 13 member board and screamed at to keep quiet when I tried to explain the situation… and insulted two weeks without any breaks on 3 WhatsApp pages… at the same time, my mother was dying and the hospital bills were killing me, while I had to be buying light and paying for office printing, transport and paying for events out of pocket etc… it was those days that we did the Pitch Series.

It became very clear to me very quickly, that if we were to achieve anything… a complete tunnel vision was needed. Complaining was never my style and explaining or going on radio stations to confront untruths was not the answer either… i didn’t have the mental space… i was fighting a war outside and having earthquakes at home. My own tribe was eating me up and I had to play psychologist to my perplexed team… they just couldn’t understand the massive hate…

In 2022… we all got our first salaries… thank God… but money was still so tight and we still had no inadequate office space, no car for work, nothing… even the machines used at the office was personal to many of us. Everything you have seen online was edited on my personal machine.

Last Friday, madam Kafui Danku was announced as the new Executive secretary. Congratulations madam. i  wish you all the success.

I remember vividly a day when I was caught between two male bosses. one lifted me up bodily and shoved me into the arms of another, insisting that I give him a hug! The latter hugged me and made the comment ‘maybe, I am the one who will marry you one day’… that night, I scummed myself until my skin was tender… I felt dirty.

I am 50 years old and I have just lost my job. So I can afford to say this… may another woman never suffer this…

Or should I speak about the woman that called me stupid and all manner of things I can’t say here and banged the phone on me, simply because I tried to do a good industry event? My staff held my hands and told me to be strong… may a woman never do this to another woman…

I recently heard someone say about me ‘people just don’t like her’ … firstly, that’s not true. Many people love me… but anyhow, I am not here for likes… and I am sure even you don’t like yourself all the time…

many are carrying some people’s fights and buying hate they don’t even understand. But… thank you … I am grateful to you.  Your dislike puts fire under my butt. I love you.  because of you, I can’t be lazy.

I want to say a big thank you to many who helped us along the way. Some even bought flight tickets to help me travel to conduct Government work. There are still staff volunteers that have never been paid at NFA, but they still continue to serve diligently.

Recently I heard someone say we are jokers… well let’s joke a bit joker…

I will start with the name dropping: I have 4 certificates from Harvard. I mentored at MIT Legatum school of business and I am a Legatum and Aspen Fellow…

Now go and research that Mr. Joker… and it is your turn… let’s go!

You have no idea the intelligence and god spirit it takes to be a creator…

Many times enter a room and they say, oh, you represent the jokers…

I always make sure it is clear who is the joker by the time l leave…

THATS THE WAY TO PLAY THE GAME MY GUYS… SHOW THEM THAT WE ARE NOT JOKERS NOR JOKING

What is next? Someone asked me… well, Loads of eating… k dramas, getting fat and sleep…

By the way, please get Kafui an office and a car so she can work properly and not have to carry out Government work from her living room like I had to do… (compensation for all the expense will be good… but I am not about to hold my breath )

The little money I raised for office and car by the end of last year has been cleared from the accounts by the Bank of Ghana before we could get the office and get the office vehicle.

And whiles you are at it, please send me my lay off letter. It is only respectful to both CEOs to ask the sitting to go in writing before appointing another… or isn’t it?

And oh, insulting me infront of my staff like that and threatening them was so unnecessary my love you are the boss after all… it was so dishonorable by all accounts.

IF THERE IS ANY REGRET, IT IS THAT I COULD NOT FINISH THE WORK…

And oh, I am so happy we are finally embracing the name Black Star… are we still against ‘Black Star films’ at this point?

Some have asked me: why didn’t you resign?… I am not the kind of mother who abandons my baby and jumps ship! I still got the birthing scars on me…

I want to say a big thank you to the people of Ghana and my sector for giving me the privilege to serve…

But Yaa… I am about to make my way back to you… be patient…  and thank you  for waiting.

May the universe bear witness to my words…

Asè

FREEDOM HAS COME

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In a Facebook post on Sunday, March 2, he highlighted the government’s heavy reliance on short-term borrowing.

“As of the end of Friday’s auction, total borrowing from the T-bill market between January 10 and February 28 stands at GH¢67 billion,” he stated.

The revelation has sparked debate over the government’s fiscal strategy, with concerns about the sustainability of such high levels of short-term borrowing.

Treasury bills serve as a key tool for raising funds to finance government expenditures, but excessive reliance on them could put pressure on interest rates and inflation. Some economic analysts warn that this trend may lead to higher borrowing costs and reduced access to credit for the private sector.

Dr. Boako’s comments come ahead of Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s presentation of the 2025 budget, with stakeholders eager to see whether measures will be introduced to curb dependence on domestic debt.

The scale of borrowing so far has raised questions about how the administration plans to manage the country’s fiscal challenges while promoting sustainable economic growth.

With the budget presentation approaching, the government is expected to outline its broader economic strategy, including efforts to stabilize public debt. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether alternative revenue measures will be introduced to ease pressure on the treasury bill market and ensure long-term financial stability.

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Leading a government delegation, Mahama extended condolences to the bereaved family and acknowledged Alhaji Banda’s contributions to Ghana’s economic growth.

News of Alhaji Banda’s passing was first shared on social media by Nigerian businessman and close associate Dele Momodu, who paid tribute to him on Instagram.

“Such a privilege knowing this adorable couple, Alhaji & Edwina Asoma-Banda, in the last three decades… Today, the elephant has fallen… May Allah bless Baaba for keeping Alhaji comfortable to the end. May Allah comfort the entire family, his wives, and children,” Momodu wrote.

Tributes have since poured in from across Ghana, including from prominent businessman Sir Sam Jonah, who described Alhaji Banda as a visionary entrepreneur and a national asset.

“This morning, Ghana has lost a true patriot, a visionary entrepreneur, and a giant of industry,” Jonah stated, highlighting Alhaji Banda’s transformative role in the economy, particularly through Antrak Airlines, which revolutionized domestic air travel.

“From establishing Antrak Shipping Line to expanding airline operations across West Africa, he believed in the power of African enterprise. He saw potential where others saw decline, and his bid to take over Ghana Airways was a testament to his unwavering belief in Ghanaian ingenuity.”

Beyond his business achievements, Alhaji Banda was remembered as a historian and mentor who generously shared insights into Ghana’s economic past and future.

“He never concealed his humble beginnings. Instead, he wore them as a badge of honor—proof that determination, hard work, and vision can elevate one from modest origins to the heights of success.”

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The Cherries took the lead at the Vitality Stadium through Evanilson, but Wolves equalized through Matheus Cunha, forcing a 1-1 draw at full-time.

With the match undecided after 90 minutes, Bournemouth held their nerve in the penalty shootout to advance to the quarterfinals.

Speaking after the game, the Ghanaian forward stressed the need for his side to finish off games within regulation time to avoid unnecessary pressure.

“It was end-to-end stuff. I feel like everyone’s legs started to go after 90 minutes. It went to pens, and luckily we won—grateful. I feel like we could have done it in 90 minutes, but the most important thing is we got the win and we’re into the next round,” he said.

Semenyo also noted that sharper finishing could improve Bournemouth’s league position.

“I think as a group we need to be a bit more clinical, and maybe in the table we’d be higher. I think now we have got the win, and we will see who we get tomorrow,” he added.

His stellar performance earned him the Man of the Match award, further highlighting his impressive form this season.

The 24-year-old has registered seven goals and five assists in 29 appearances across all competitions.

In a social media post on March 1, he announced that the budget, set to be presented on March 11, aligns with the government’s vision for economic progress.

“In just nine days, I will present Budget 2025 on Tuesday, March 11th—a budget designed to drive growth, development, and opportunities for all,” he stated.

Dr. Forson reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the economy and ensuring long-term resilience, adding that his team is finalizing key policies to boost stability.

He stressed that the budget will focus on job creation, industrial growth, and social welfare, with an emphasis on supporting local businesses.

The Finance Minister also noted that strategic investments in critical sectors will drive sustainable development, assuring that the government remains dedicated to implementing measures that will foster economic stability and address the country’s challenges.

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Speaking during the 40-day observance of the late chief, Emmanuel Nana Sarpong, President of the Asunafo North Cooperative Cocoa Farmers Union, commended Nana Bosomprah’s commitment to safeguarding farmlands.

He noted that the chief swiftly intervened whenever he received intelligence on illegal mining activities, taking decisive action regardless of the perpetrators’ backgrounds.

Nana Poku Bosompem, Forestry Service Manager for the Ahafo Region, also acknowledged Nana Bosomprah’s role in environmental conservation, particularly his contributions to the Green Ghana initiative.

He noted that the late chief actively promoted tree planting in Goaso, guiding the community on sustainable forestry practices.

Both the cocoa farmers and forestry officials described Nana Kwasi Bosomprah as a leader dedicated to preserving the environment and securing the future of agriculture in the region.

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Presenting the uniforms on behalf of Rev. Adonu, Alexander Yaw Ntiamaoh emphasized the importance of education and encouraged pupils in rural areas to work hard to become future leaders of Ghana.

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Speaking during a fundraising event marking her 10th enstoolment anniversary, she expressed concern over the hardships pregnant women face due to the absence of a proper maternity facility.

She noted that the project, initiated by the community, has stalled due to a lack of funds and called for urgent intervention to save lives.

Adom News reporter Sammy Asare also engaged Assembly Member Daniel Amoka and a resident, who highlighted other challenges, including poor road conditions and a lack of telephone network, urging the government to address these pressing issues.

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The Ghanaian forward registered a goal and an assist, inspiring his team to a vital win in their relegation battle.

Lens took an early lead when Neil El Aynaoui converted a penalty just two minutes into the game. Ruben Aguilar then doubled their advantage with a powerful volley midway through the first half.

Le Havre, however, responded strongly. Issa Soumaré sparked the comeback with a stunning long-range strike before setting up Ayew, who calmly slotted home to level the score at 2-2 by halftime.

Florian Sotoca restored Lens’ lead after the break, but Ayew remained instrumental. His dangerous cross forced an error from Malang Sarr, allowing Josué Casimir to equalize.

The match reached a dramatic climax in stoppage time when Casimir won a penalty. Ahmed Hassan stepped up and converted from the spot to seal a remarkable win for Le Havre.

Ayew now has five league goals and two assists this season, underlining his leadership as Le Havre fights to avoid relegation.

The victory lifts them to 18th place with 20 points, as they prepare for a crucial clash against AS Saint-Étienne next weekend at the Stade Océane.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Hamas had so far refused to accept a temporary ceasefire extension under a proposal by US President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff.

A Hamas spokesman called the move “cheap blackmail” and a “coup” on the ceasefire agreement and urged mediators to get Israel to resume the supply of aid.

The Palestinian group wants phase two of the deal to go ahead as originally negotiated, with the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

On Friday night, Hamas said it would not agree to any extension of phase one without guarantees from US, Qatari and Egyptian mediators that phase two would eventually take place.

A statement from Netanyahu’s office said: “With the end of Phase 1 of the hostage deal, and in light of Hamas’s refusal to accept the Witkoff outline for continuing talks – to which Israel agreed – Prime Minister Netanyahu has decided that, as of this morning, all entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will cease.

“Israel will not allow a ceasefire without the release of our hostages. If Hamas continues its refusal, there will be further consequences.”

The Hamas spokesman said: “Netanyahu’s decision to stop aid going into Gaza once again shows the ugly face of the Israeli occupation… The international community must apply pressure on the Israeli government to stop starving our people.”

Late last night, Netanyahu’s office said Israel had agreed to a US proposal for the ceasefire to continue for about six weeks during the Muslim Ramadan and Jewish Passover periods.

If, at the end of this period, negotiations reached a dead end, Israel would reserve the right to go back to war.

US envoy Witkoff has not made his proposal public. According to Israel, it would begin with the release of half of all the remaining living and dead hostages.

Netanyahu’s office said Israel would immediately start negotiations if Hamas changed its position on the six-week ceasefire extension.

The first phase of the ceasefire that came into force on 19 January expired on Saturday.

It halted 15 months of fighting between Hamas and the Israeli military, allowing the release of 33 Israeli and five Thai hostages for about 1,900 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.

But negotiations on phase two, including the release of all remaining living hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, have barely begun.

There are believed to be 24 hostages alive, with another 39 presumed to be dead.

Hamas carried out an unprecedented attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, killing about 1,200 people and taking another 251 hostage.

Israel responded with an air and ground campaign in the Gaza Strip, during which at least 48,365 people have been killed, according to the territory’s Hamas-run health ministry.

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In an interview with Myjoyonline.com, Ken Ashigbey admitted that he initially felt President Mahama needed to address multiple issues surrounding galamsey to reassure the public of his commitment to tackling the menace.

“I was indeed worried that I did not hear him touch on some of the key issues like the LI 2462, the militias, and all that, and then I chanced upon a video of the Lands Minister addressing the issues. The Minister touched on everything to be said. So if the President speaks the way he spoke at the SONA, that is fine,” he said.

According to Ashigbey, the President’s remarks focused on proactive measures already being taken rather than outlining future plans.

“Once President Mahama says proactive steps are being taken to deal with galamsey, he is talking about the actions that are being taken already and not what he plans to do,” he added.

He urged citizens to support both the President and the Lands Minister in the fight against illegal mining.

“My dedication as a citizen to this mission from God is to help win the war against galamsey and return Ghana to the path of responsible and sustainable mining that develops our country,” he emphasized.

“Let’s all rally around this call from the Minister to defeat the enemy in this war—the galamsey war—to save the soul of our country. #StopGalamseyNow,” he added.

Several others, including Finance and Economics Professor at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS), Godfred Bokpin, shared similar concerns, expressing disappointment with the brevity of President Mahama’s comments on galamsey in his address and calling for more detail.

Lands Minister Issues Stern Warning to Illegal Miners and Attackers of Journalists

Meanwhile, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, has issued a strong warning to illegal miners and individuals attacking journalists reporting on environmental issues.

He stressed that President Mahama will not intervene on behalf of anyone involved in illegal mining, stating, “The President will not call anybody, nor should anybody, and that’s why we are here. So we are empowering you to do your job.”

Addressing recent assaults on journalists covering the issue, Minister Kofi-Buah declared, “Let me use the opportunity to also warn those who attacked these journalists in the last few days: your time is up.”

He acknowledged the arrest of some perpetrators and assured that the government is collaborating with law enforcement to ensure all involved are prosecuted.

“For those who are fighting to keep us alive, we will not allow anybody to touch them,” he stressed.

Highlighting the environmental devastation caused by galamsey, the Minister called for collective action, describing the situation as a “war at the heart and soul of our survival as a people.”

He urged Ghanaians to join the fight against illegal mining, citing the severe impact on major rivers and the nation’s future.

Kofi-Buah also announced ongoing legal proceedings against arrested individuals, including seven Chinese nationals and their eight accomplices, who have been arraigned before the courts.

He revealed that discussions are underway with the judiciary to establish dedicated courts for expedited prosecution of illegal mining cases.

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reclaiming forest reserves and water bodies, stating that operations will continue until all illegal miners are apprehended and their equipment seized.

He noted that the President has directed that confiscated equipment be repurposed for public use, such as road construction.

“For those who have doubts about our commitment to this fight, please trust us. We are going to fight all the way to the end, doing the right mining, but we are not going to spare anybody who ventures to do illegal mining in our forests,” he assured.

He also mentioned forthcoming legislative measures, including a bill to Parliament aimed at repealing certain provisions to strengthen the fight against illegal mining.

Issuing a final warning to those involved in illegal mining, the Minister declared, “We are coming after you. You have a choice: you leave now, or we arrest you and your co-conspirators.”

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Speaking at the opening of a three-day orientation programme for Members of the 9th Parliament in Ho on Saturday, Speaker Bagbin argued that the Executive and Judiciary should no longer overshadow the Legislature in terms of status, as modern democracies were evolving towards a more balanced approach.

The orientation programme, however, was boycotted by the Minority caucus, who cited the high cost of holding the training outside the parliamentary chamber.

Organized by the Parliamentary Service and the Parliamentary Training Institute (PTI), the programme aimed to equip legislators with the knowledge needed to effectively perform their legislative, oversight, investigative, and regulatory duties.

Speaker Bagbin stressed that the heartbeat of democracy lies within the legislature, which serves as the nerve center of the people. He urged MPs to seize the next four years as an opportunity to enhance their role and make Parliament more attractive than the other arms of government.

“The next four years offer a critical opportunity for transformation. MPs must rewrite a new story for themselves and live it,” he stated.

He further urged members to ensure their presence in the House was impactful, rather than merely passing through.

“Focus, serve, and sacrifice. Don’t allow political differences to enslave you or be enslaved by our history,” he admonished.

Speaker Bagbin also paid tribute to former MPs Dr. Ibn Chambas, Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, and Ms. Hanna Tetteh, who currently serve in international roles, highlighting their achievements as a testament to hard work and perseverance.

Clerk of Parliament Emphasizes MPs’ Responsibilities

Clerk of Parliament, Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, reminded MPs of their critical roles, including law-making, oversight, budget control, conflict resolution, and representation. He emphasized that understanding parliamentary procedures and institutional frameworks was essential for effective service.

“The task ahead is daunting but not insurmountable. Balancing constituents’ expectations with formal parliamentary duties requires careful consideration,” he noted.

He assured MPs of the Speaker’s commitment to continuous training to enhance their legislative capacity, with the Parliamentary Service providing procedural, legal, technical, and administrative support.

“Parliament is a distinct institution with its own norms and rules. MPs must make continuous efforts to acquire knowledge and learn from experienced members to navigate the complexities of their work,” he added.

Majority Leader Highlights Importance of Training

Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga underscored the importance of the orientation programme in equipping MPs with the skills necessary to uphold Ghana’s democratic standards.

“For us to maintain our high standing and continue being a model for other nations, we must strengthen our competencies and parliament through the acquisition of relevant tools and their effective use,” he stated.

The training programme will cover topics such as the rights of majority and minority caucuses, conflict management, consensus building, the legislative process, private members’ bills, and budget scrutiny. MPs will also be trained in advocacy, lobbying, and negotiation strategies to enhance their effectiveness in parliamentary duties.

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Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for the Hajj Village on Friday, February 28, President Mahama stressed the importance of meeting the payment deadline and ensuring all necessary arrangements are in place.

“This year, we intend to airlift exactly 5,000 pilgrims to the Holy Land, and the task force has announced March 13 as the deadline for payment,” he stated.

He further revealed that a pre-financing arrangement has been secured with a local bank to cover payments for accommodation, transportation, and other essential services.

President Mahama also directed the task force to strictly enforce the 5,000-pilgrim limit to prevent last-minute challenges.

“I’ve instructed the task force to cut off at exactly 5,000 and not exceed that number. We don’t want a repeat of past situations where late payments caused complications, leaving some pilgrims unable to travel,” he added.

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The attack, which claimed three lives, is believed to be linked to ongoing chieftaincy disputes in the area.

However, Ibrahim Tia clarified that the incident was not a reprisal attack but a direct assault on the community.

“We know that it’s an attack and not a reprisal because we just know that Nanik community was attacked,” he told Channel One Newsroom.

He assured the public that security forces are in control of the situation.

“The security is in control. They have deployed personnel between the two communities to ensure peace and stability,” he added.

According to the Minister, security agencies are actively investigating the incident to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

“This is purely a criminal matter. The chieftaincy aspect will be handled by the overlord and the regional house of chiefs,” he emphasized.

He expressed confidence that the ongoing investigation would bring the culprits to justice and help restore calm to the affected communities.

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The woman’s lifeless body was discovered separately from her daughter’s, about 20 meters apart.

Upon inspection, multiple signs of assault were found on their bodies, suggesting foul play. The bodies have since been covered and deposited at the Obuasi Dwaden OD Mortuary.

Speaking to Adom News, some community members said the tragic incident occurred near a stream.

Observations at the scene suggest the woman struggled with her attackers before being overpowered. Residents say the situation has left them in fear.

The Assembly Member for Akrokere Fie Electoral Area, Kyereme Andy Mensah, expressed sadness over the incident.

He explained that he received a call from some community members, and upon confirming the situation with his unit committee members, they immediately reported the case to the police for further investigations.

He added that he and his committee members would also inform the traditional leaders for further action.

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During his State of the Nation Address on Thursday, February 27, President Mahama emphasized the need for openness regarding government spending on national teams.

He directed the Minister of Sports and Recreation to ensure that all budgets related to the Black Stars and other national teams are made public.

“There will be no secrecy in how much the government spends on the national teams. The budgets presented by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and other sports associations must be made public. After all, it is the taxpayer’s funds that are used to support these activities,” President Mahama said.

In response, the GFA released a statement on Friday, fully supporting the President’s stance on financial transparency.

“We also endorse His Excellency’s call for transparency in relation to the budgeting and expenditure related to the Black Stars and, by extension, all national teams,” the GFA said in its release.

The GFA further clarified its role in the budgeting process, stating that while it submits an initial draft budget to the Ministry of Sports, all financial decisions and payments related to the Black Stars are ultimately handled by the Ministry.

“Indeed, as part of our commitment to transparency, the GFA has always provided the Ministry responsible for Sports with the first draft budget for the national teams. Beyond this, everything to do with the budgeting and expenditure related to the Black Stars sits with the Ministry. For emphasis, payments made in relation to the Black Stars are exclusively handled by the Ministry.

The GFA also expressed enthusiasm for President Mahama’s commitment to football development and pledged to collaborate with the Ministry to fulfill the aspirations of Ghanaians.

Meanwhile, the Black Stars are set to continue their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with two crucial fixtures—facing Chad in Accra on March 21 before taking on Madagascar in Morocco on March 24, 2025.

The Matchday 5 encounter is set to take place at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, March 21, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00 GMT.

Abdulrazg will be supported by fellow Libyans Amsaaed Attia M. Essa (Assistant Referee I), Munji Alayat (Assistant Referee II), and Muhammad Saad Elmabrouk Elmabrouk, who will serve as the fourth official.

Additionally, Kokou Djaoupe from Togo has been assigned as the Referee Assessor, while Sierra Leone’s Holland-Cole Kasho Joseph will take on the role of Match Commissioner.

Ghana currently sits second in Group I with nine points from four games, having recorded three wins and one defeat.

Three days after the Chad clash, the Black Stars will travel to face Madagascar in their Matchday 6 fixture.

That game will be played at the Grand Stade d’Al Hoceima in Morocco on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 19:00 GMT.

Both teams missed penalties in the game, but Attram Devisser snatched a late win, securing a 1-0 victory over True Democracy. However, the celebrations were short-lived, as the aftermath turned chaotic.

According to reports, True Democracy supporters allegedly ambushed the Attram Devisser team bus as it departed the venue, pelting it with stones.

The attack caused significant damage to the vehicle and left several players and staff injured.

Video below

This incident marks the second case of hooliganism in the Division One League within two weeks, following a violent clash between Elmina Sharks and Swedru All Blacks.

Football-related violence has been a growing concern in the country, with recent events tarnishing the sport’s reputation.

Just weeks ago, the football community was left in shock after Asante Kotoko fan Francis Frimpong, also known as Nana Pooley, was tragically stabbed to death by unidentified attackers during a Matchday 19 fixture against Nsoatreman FC at Nana Kronmansah Park in Nsoatre.

The rise in hooliganism continues to cast a dark shadow over the local game, raising urgent calls for stricter security measures and action against perpetrators.

Federico Dimarco put defending champions Inter ahead in the 22nd minute with a superb free kick to silence the capacity crowd but Danish midfielder Billing was the hero of Naples, coming off the bench to equalise in the 87th minute.

Inter have 58 points with Napoli on 57, two ahead of Atalanta who were held to a 0-0 draw by Venezia on Saturday.

After a nervy, scrappy start from both sides at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, with the game repeatedly interrupted as players received treatment, it was only fitting that the opening goal came from a set-piece.

Dimarco curled his free kick around the wall and inside the far post. Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret could only look on as the ball nestled in the corner of the net and the game finally erupted into life.

Once Napoli absorbed the sucker-punch, they began to push forward in search of an equaliser. A long pass was met first time by striker Romelu Lukaku but his effort smashed into the side netting.

Seconds later Giacomo Raspadori’s first touch took him past Inter keeper Josep Martinez wide in the area but his second was too heavy and the ball rolled wide with Lukaku waiting in the middle of the area.

Just before the break Raspadori managed to get the ball into a dangerous position but Lukaku’s strike from the edge of the six-yard box was blocked by Alessandro Bastoni and Inter held their lead going into the interval.

Napoli were camped out in the Inter area for much of the second half, forcing corner after corner. Stanislav Lobotka fired over from the edge of the area after a one-two with Lukaku.

Scott McTominay then had a powerful strike parried away by Martinez, while an Inter counter-attack needed Meret to come well out of his area and clear the danger with Denzel Dumfries bearing down on the Napoli goal.

Napoli were looking to put a dismal February behind them where a run of three draws and one defeat had allowed Inter to steal top spot, but they looked set to slip further behind until manager Antonio Conte sprang Billing from the bench.

The Dane, signed on loan from Bournemouth in January, made his Napoli debut in last weekend’s defeat at Como but needed just eight minutes to make his mark against Inter.

Played in by Lobotka, Billing’s first effort was saved by the leg of Martinez but he poked home the rebound to keep Napoli’s title hopes very much alive.

The former Manchester City forward ran on to a superb defence-splitting ball by Marcos Llorente before calmly slotting in to break the deadlock in the 66th minute.

Athletic Club came agonisingly close to an equaliser when Benat Prados headed against the post and Inaki Williams crashed the rebound off the underside of the crossbar.

Diego Simeone’s Atletico knew a win over the Bilbao side would see them jump above both Barcelona and Real Madrid, who lost to Real Betis earlier on Saturday.

However, their two-point lead could be short-lived, with second-placed Barcelona playing their game in hand against Real Sociedad on Sunday.

Atletico will hope they can rub more salt in the wounds of city rivals Real Madrid when they face each other in the first leg Champions League last 16 on Tuesday.

An emotional Steve Parish, Crystal Palace’s chairman, told BBC Sport that Roberts had “endangered a fellow professional and maybe his life”.

Roberts was sent off in the eighth minute after a video assistant referee (VAR) review during Saturday’s FA Cup fifth-round tie. The footage showed he kicked the side of Mateta’s head, having dashed from his line to clear the ball.

The French forward, 27, was treated on the pitch and given oxygen before being taken to an ambulance, with substitute Eddie Nketiah coming on and scoring in the 3-1 win for the Premier League side.

Palace manager Oliver Glasner said the foul “could have been the end of JP’s career” while Millwall boss Alex Neil insisted Roberts had not intended to hurt Mateta.

Posting on social media on Saturday, Mateta said: “I’m doing well. I hope to be back very soon and stronger than ever. Well done guys for the great job today.”

Later on Saturday night Palace said Mateta had been discharged from hospital.

“He received specialist treatment and 25 stitches to a severe laceration to his left ear,” the club said. “All scans were clear and JP is feeling well.”

Thirteen minutes were added on at the end of the first half at Selhurst Park following the incident, with Palace 2-0 up after an own goal by Japhet Tanganga and a Daniel Munoz strike.

Parish told BBC One at half-time: “So far, what we know is he [Mateta] has a bad gash behind his ear.

“In all the time I’ve watched football, I’ve not seen a challenge like it. That is the most reckless challenge on a football pitch I think I’ve ever seen, and I think he [Roberts] needs to have a long, hard look at himself because he’s endangering a fellow professional and maybe his life.

“It is difficult for me to talk about the rest of the game. It’s a terrible challenge.”

Mateta has been in superb form for the Eagles this season, scoring 15 goals in 33 appearances overall – including eight in his past eight Premier League games.

The Football Association has condemned some “let him die” chants made towards Mateta by some Millwall fans while he was receiving treatment on the pitch, but said they do not breach its regulations.

However, the FA will investigate homophobic chants aimed towards Ben Chilwell, on loan at Palace from Chelsea, from Millwall supporters.

‘It could have been the end of JP’s career’ – Glasner

Palace boss Glasner said the incident was so bad he initially did not want to watch it again.

“He’s at the hospital and I heard he’s conscious, and he has a serious ear injury,” Glasner said.

“I didn’t want to see it after the game, because you never want to watch an injury, but because I was told you have to talk about it, I watched it, and it was very, very serious foul play.

“Just imagine if he hits his face straight, with all this power and the studs, it could have been the end of JP’s career.

“I’m pretty sure he did not want to injure JP in this situation, but I also think you have to decide when you make such an impact, that you just can’t do it in this way – the risk of a very serious injury is just too high.

“I don’t feel happiness, still sadness and doubt, because of how serious JP’s injury is. My fingers are crossed, and hopefully he can play in the quarter-finals, in four weeks, we all hope it’s not that serious.”

Millwall manager Neil added: “He’s tried to get the ball, he’s mistimed it and caught the lad. It’s no more than that from my perspective.

“He has certainly not intended to hurt the player or anything like it. We wish Mateta the best and hope he gets back on the pitch.”

Matt Doherty had the chance to win it for Wolves after Sam Johnstone saved Dean Huijsen’s penalty, but the defender completely scuffed his shot wide.

Johnstone had been superb for Wolves as the goalkeeper made numerous inspired saves to keep his side alive against a dominant Bournemouth.

Wolves were without talisman Matheus Cunha in the shootout after the forward was given a red card just minutes before the end of extra time.

The game was the hosts’ for the taking for large periods after Evanilson broke the deadlock 30 minutes into the first half.

Bournemouth thought they had a second five minutes later when Milos Kerkez scrambled it in at a corner but the ball brushed Huijsen’s upper shoulder as it went in. It took at least five minutes for the VAR check to disallow the goal, prompting a restless crowd to jeer at the officials. It was eventually decided that Huijsen was not the issue, but an offside in the box.

While Bournemouth kept hunting for a second, it was Cunha who unexpectedly struck a stunning effort from outside the box to turn the tie on its head.

But the striker went from hero to villain as right before penalties, he lashed out at Kerkez and was shown a red card.

Wolves scored their first four penalties and had the chance to win it but Doherty missed his attempt, and Lewis Cook nailed his to give Sinisterra the opportunity to win and the Colombian neatly tucked his shot past Johnstone.

Mateta stretchered off as Palace defeat 10-man Millwall

Crystal Palace secured their spot in the FA Cup quarter-finals with a 3-1 victory over Championship side Millwall, though suffered a blow as Jean-Philippe Mateta was stretchered off the field.

The local clash started at a great tempo but quickly quelled as Mateta was sent to the ground eight minutes in after a high boot by Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts made contact with the striker’s head, after the forward seemingly shook off Jake Cooper’s challenge to go through on goal.

Referee Michael Oliver initially let play go on, before being referred to VAR in which he hastily made the decision to brandish a red card for Roberts, while the Palace forward was given oxygen as he received a lengthy spell of treatment on the pitch.

Eight minutes passed before Mateta was stretchered off the Selhurst Park pitch, in the direction of the ambulances in the corner of the ground.

Palace took the game to their visitors after the restart, forcing numerous chances, and found the breakthrough on 33 minutes.

Former Tottenham Hotspur defender Japhet Tanganga headed Will Hughes’ cross into his own net, making the Championship side’s uphill task even tougher.

Daniel Munoz doubled Palace’s lead seven minutes later as he tapped home from close range after Millwall failed to clear their lines.

The effort was initially ruled out for offside, but a swift VAR check – courtesy of the new semi-automated technology – showed the last touch came off Millwall defender Tanganga, overruling the linesman’s initial call.

Wes Harding reduced Palace’s lead 13 minutes into first half stoppage time, as he thundered an effort home from a loose ball in the box to give the 10-man visitors a lifeline.

But substitute Eddie Nketiah – who replaced the early outgoing Mateta – ensured there would be no late drama, as he restored the two-goal cushion eight minutes from time to send Palace into the quarter-finals.

Preston secure stunning win over rivals Burnley

Scott Parker’s Burnley have conceded just nine goals in 34 Championship matches this season, but Preston North End found a way past their Lancashire rivals’ staunch defence with a 3-0 win at Deepdale.

Subjecting Burnley to their first defeat since November, Preston impressed throughout the encounter, and their passage to the quarter-finals was never in doubt, with Robbie Brady curling home a magnificent free-kick against his former side to open the scoring 31 minutes in.

Milutin Osmajic doubled the hosts’ lead a minute before the break, and former Manchester United striker Will Keane ensured the dominant victory when he tapped in Andrew Hughes’ teasing ball 17 minutes from time.

The result ensured Preston would reach the final eight of the competition for the first time since 1966.

Los Blancos were in second, trailing Barcelona on goal difference and a point ahead of Atletico Madrid prior to kick-off, but with both title rivals yet to play this weekend, Madrid could find themselves in third and three points adrift of the summit come Sunday evening.

Carlo Ancelotti’s men started strongly at the Benito Villamarin Stadium and took the lead after 10 minutes as Ferland Mendy squared the ball beyond Adrian, teeing up Brahim Diaz for a tap-in.

The hosts grew into the game and deservedly equalised when Johnny Cardoso powered home a header from close range after being left unmarked at a corner.

Manuel Pellegrini’s men were the better team following the interval and took the lead nine minutes into the second half when former Madrid man and Betis Captain Isco converted from the spot after Antonio Rudiger clumsily brought down young winger Jesus Rodriguez.

The visitors were largely disappointing – struggling to create anything of note and lacking any sense of urgency as they searched for the equaliser.

Betis, meanwhile, could have extended their advantage when Antony picked out Cucho Hernandez inside the box, but after taking an excellent first touch, he dragged his effort wide from close range.

Manchester United loanee Antony, who was able to play after a successful appeal of his red card last weekend, impressed once again as he continued his excellent form since arriving in January.

Madrid, who were without Jude Bellingham as he served the second and final game of his suspension, perhaps had one eye on Tuesday, with the first leg of their UEFA Champions League tie with Diego Simeone’s Atletico looming.

They now have just one win in their last five league games and will be looking to turn their form around when they host Rayo Vallecano next weekend.

As for Betis, that is now three wins on the spin in the league and they move up into sixth, into the European places.

They too have a European first leg to contend with midweek as they host Guimaraes in the UEFA Conference League before they return to La Liga action with a home tie against Las Palmas.

The move, which is an attempt to clamp down on goalkeepers killing time by “holding onto the ball for too long”, is one of numerous changes to the Laws of the Game announced by IFAB.

This is a notable move away from the current rules, which state that should a goalkeeper hold onto the ball for more than six seconds, an indirect free-kick is awarded to the opposing team.

The new approach will see referees give goalkeepers a “visual five-second countdown” before they must release the ball.

The IFAB said in a statement: “After trials have shown a major positive impact where goalkeepers have been holding onto the ball for too long, The IFAB has unanimously decided to amend Law 12.2 (Indirect free kick).

“The amendment means that if a goalkeeper holds the ball for longer than eight seconds (with the referee using a visual five-second countdown), the referee will award a corner kick to the opposing team (rather than the current indirect free kick for more than six seconds).

“The following decisions were also taken at the 139th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of The IFAB, hosted by the Irish Football Association (IFA) in Belfast, Northern Ireland.”

The change had been trialled in English youth leagues this season, as well as in Italy and Malta.

Other law changes

Another amendment made by the IFAB is to encourage “stronger co-operation” between club captains and officials, implementing guidelines which “apply the principle of only the captain approaching the referee in specific situations”.

The decision was made in hope of instilling “higher levels of fairness and mutual respect” between players and officials, which can be implemented at each competition’s discretion.

Further amendments will see referee’s award the drop-balls to the team that “would have gained possession” if play is stopped when the ball is outside either penalty box.

Meanwhile, an “indirect free kick with no disciplinary sanction” will be awarded if a member of either bench touches the ball as it is leaving the pitch, if there is “no intention to interfere unfairly”.

Competitions now also have the option for referees to announce VAR verdicts, a move which has been exhibited in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup fifth round this season.

The IFAB added that the new rules will be in force for the FIFA Club World Cup – starting June 14, despite officially coming into effect on July 1.

The maintenance is scheduled for Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Affected areas in the Tema Region include Star Steel, Dawhenya Township, Abbey Kope, Adotey, Miotso, Ghanaman Soccer Academy, Abia, Prampram, Kpoi Ete, Central University, Ososhie, P.S. Global, Devtraco, Methodist Junction, and surrounding areas.

In a statement, ECG apologized for any inconvenience this maintenance work may cause to residents and businesses in these areas.

In a separate update, the ECG also addressed ongoing outages in the Ashanti West Region. These outages are the result of a cable fault at Abuakwa Maakro, near the ECG Abuakwa District Office.

Affected areas are Abuakwa Maakro, Asonomaso, Manhyia, Koforidua, Akrpong Junction, and surrounding areas.

Additionally, the ECG reported a similar outage in the Accra East Region due to an underground cable fault at Ogbojo.

Affected areas include Ogbojo Asafoatse, Otienshie, Ability, Dzen Ayor, Rev. Owusu Bempah area, Galaxy International School area, and Twumasewaa Hospital area.

“ECG wishes to assure affected customers that our engineers are working to rectify the faults and restore supply. We regret the inconvenience caused to our valued customers,” the statement read.

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Hayford helped his school secure a spot in the finals of the 4*100m and 4*200m relays.

The headmaster, Dr Benjamin Baah stated that the school is not surprised about his performance because of his excellent track record.

Hayford is a form one Visual Arts student who secured admission through the sports protocol. He is also a skilled football and volleyball player.

He hails from Abroma-Afigya Kwabre North.

The body was retrieved on Friday, February 28, 2025, after a distress call was received at 5:30 pm.

The Sunyani Municipal Fire Station, led by Station Officer Yahaya and later joined by Regional Operations Officer DO II Noekor, rushed to the scene.

According to reports, the victim was allegedly murdered by her boyfriend and dumped into the septic tank three weeks ago.

The boyfriend has since been arrested with the body also in police custody to aid investigations.

In a message to the Muslim Ummah, Akufo-Addo expressed hope that the period of fasting and prayer would further strengthen both individual and collective commitment to peace and good neighborliness.

“It is my wish that the period of Ramadan will strengthen further, our individual and collective resolve in the pursuit of peace and good neighborliness,” he stated.

Ramadan, observed by millions of Muslims worldwide, is a time of deep spiritual reflection, devotion, and self-discipline. It is also a period of charity and unity.

Muslims will embark on a month-long journey of fasting from dawn to dusk, engaging in prayers and acts of kindness in adherence to their faith.