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U/E: Talensi office fire not linked to DCE nomination

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The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Talensi district of the Upper East Region has debunked assertions that the fire outbreak at their party office was connected to a protest relating to the DCE nomination.

Speaking to Citi News in an interview on Sunday April 6, the Talensi constituency NDC communication officer, Michael Nangena, stated that the party has called for an investigation into the fire outbreak because there’s no indication that the fire at the party office was caused by any protestor.

On 5th April 2025, the office of the NDC in the Talensi constituency caught fire at around 2 a.m. Residents in the area rushed to the scene, and with assistance from the Ghana National Fire Service, the fire was brought under control. This was widely reported as a protest by party members over the DCE nomination.

However, the NDC leadership in the area has indicated it is not related to the DCE nomination.

“This cannot represent the facts on the ground because I personally picked the release from the regional communications bureau’s platform onto the constituency platform where almost every polling station is represented. From last night to now, it has been wins or congratulations to the honourable John on the nomination and appreciation to His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic, for the nomination.

“So we have no indication whatsoever that people are protesting his nomination to the extent that they have burnt the party office to register their displeasure. It is not true. As we speak, I was there by 6 a.m., and when I got there, I had only two of our guys who were also there to see for themselves what was going on. People who are protesting will not go and burn down a party office under the cover of darkness.

“At least you protest for others to know that you, so and so, are dissatisfied with the decision so made. But to the extent that this event took place at 2:30 a.m. thereabout cannot be attributed to the nomination of our chairman,” he stated.

Read also…

Talensi NDC office set ablaze over DCE nomination

I know when I will die – Maurice Ampaw responds to death rumours [Watch]

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Ghanaian legal practitioner and media personality, Maurice Ampaw, has broken his silence over viral rumours claiming he had passed away.

The false news spread across social media on Friday evening, sparking panic and concern among fans and followers.

However, in an interview on Adom FM’s Entertainment Hall hosted by Mike Two, the outspoken lawyer dismissed the claims with confidence and spiritual insight.

“I’m not dead,” he said firmly. “As a legal prophet, I am aware of my impending demise and i know when i will die but before I leave this world, I will say goodbye to Ghanaians.”

Maurice Ampaw went on to explain that he has a covenant with God, which gives him insight into the timing of his own death.

“When the time is near, I will announce it. I will use one week to say goodbye, and when it finally happens, people will say, ‘he even predicted his own death.’”

He added that he lives with purpose, knowing that his work is part of a divine assignment.

According to him, people often misunderstand him because they don’t recognize his calling.

“Everyone has their brand and what it stands for. Some people won’t like what you’re doing, simply because they don’t understand your calling,” he explained.

“I am working for God, and when I am done, it is only God who can judge me,” he added. “What I am doing is a calling. That’s all.”

The lawyer concluded the interview by reassuring Ghanaians that he remains active and will continue to appear on air and in public life.

“I am here. I am not going anywhere yet. When it’s time, you will all know.”

Maurice Ampaw is widely known for his bold personality and often controversial commentary on legal and national issues.

Despite the swirling rumours, he remains unfazed and as outspoken as ever.


Govt considering strategies to mitigate impact of U.S. tariffs on Ghana’s trade

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The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness & Industry says various strategies are under consideration to mitigate the immediate impact of newly imposed U.S. tariffs on Ghana’s trade and exports.

In a statement, the Ministry assured the Ghanaian private sector, particularly exporters and investors, of government’s readiness to engage the U.S. to avoid disruptions to trade and investment.

The Ministry added that stakeholders are currently being engaged to assess the full economic impact of the tariffs while government explores practical measures to protect Ghanaian interests.

This comes after the United States announced a 10% universal tariff on all imports, including those from Ghana, effective April 5, 2025.

Under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), Ghanaian products previously enjoyed duty-free access to the U.S. market.

However, the new tariff policy—announced under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)—threatens to undermine that advantage.

The Ministry noted that while some products, including pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, energy products, and certain minerals, are exempt, many of Ghana’s priority exports such as apparel, cocoa derivatives, gold jewellery, shea butter, cashew, yam, and horticultural products could be affected.

As an immediate step, a high-level government delegation comprising the Ministers for Trade, Finance, and Foreign Affairs will meet with the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana on April 7 to begin diplomatic engagements.

Government has reaffirmed its commitment to keeping the private sector informed to ensure predictability in trade and investment decisions.

I never walked out of Newsfile – Ntim Fordjour

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Former Deputy Minister of Education, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour Former Deputy Minister of Education, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour

The Member of Parliament for Assin South and Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, has provided his version of the facts regarding his reported walkout during his appearance as a guest on the Saturday, April 5, 2025 edition of Joy Newsfile.

According to the MP, contrary to claims by the host, Samson Ayenini, and the Acting Managing Director of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC), Sammy Gyamfi, he only exited the set after the segment he was scheduled to appear on had ended.

“I never walked out of Newsfile, contrary to what Samson Ayenini and Sammy Gyamfi put out. I was billed for only a particular segment and was told another panelist was scheduled to take over after my segment,” he wrote in an X post.

“I left after my segment fully concluded, and a break was taken for me to exit while my replacement walked in to take her seat. While exiting, I indicated to Samson his biased and hostile hosting. Sammy Gyamfi filmed the exit and broadcasted it falsely on his WhatsApp with claims of me walking out of the show. Samson, immediately upon resuming from the break to begin the next segment, mischievously stated I had walked out of the show because he had read disingenuous messages,” he added.

He further accused the host of harboring a prejudicial mindset against him by pronouncing him guilty even before his appearance on the show.

“Listen to what Samson said about me before I entered the studio, while I was in the studio, and conclude what he’s capable of saying when I exited. He pronounced me guilty, told me to shut up, said I was jail-bound, and made all sorts of inappropriate false pronouncements, clearly not hiding his prejudices to smear me,” he stated.

Following Ntim Fordjour’s appearance on Newsfile, he was accused of failing to withstand scrutiny and staging a walkout from the show.

In a post on his X page, sighted by GhanaWeb, the MP for Ketu North, Edem Agbana, accused Fordjour of failing to withstand tough scrutiny, claiming he left the studio after alleging that the host was embarrassing him.

He went on to criticise Fordjour for allegedly using parliamentary oversight as a cover to spread misinformation.

“Don’t hide behind parliamentary oversight to peddle falsehood again,” he stated.

But according to the Assin South MP, his reported walkout is nothing but a staged event to smear his person.

“So please disregard his claim and the false video of Sammy Gyamfi – it was staged, not a coincidence. I stayed through the full segment I was billed for and exited after,” he maintained.

These exchanges come on the heels of Ntim Fordjour’s recent call for an urgent briefing on the contents of two aircraft — AirMed Flight N823AM and Cavok Air Antonov An-12B, which he alleged had conveyed cocaine and cash into the country.

He has further accused the government of avoiding accountability by failing to honor his call for the briefing on these matters of national security, including the status of 12 containers filled with gold and cash, which were allegedly seized by National Security on February 9.

Additionally, he has questioned the lack of updates on recent high-profile cocaine busts worth a combined $500 million.

GA/MA

Trump urges US to ‘hang tough’ as 10% tariffs come into effect

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US President, Donald Trump US President, Donald Trump

The US began collecting a 10% “baseline” tariff on all imports on Saturday as President Donald Trump urged Americans to “hang tough” after market turmoil.

The UK and France are among hundreds of countries impacted and its leaders have said nothing is off the table. While China, which has been hit the hardest by President Trump’s tariffs, announced a significant retaliatory response.

All three major stock indexes in the US plunged more than 5% on Friday, with the S&P 500 dropping almost 6%, capping the worst week for the US stock market since 2020.

In Washington DC, New York and other cities thousands gathered to protest against a range of Trump’s policies – from the economy to government cuts.

Trump described the market volatility as “an economic revolution”, which the US “will win”.

“Hang tough, it won’t be easy, but the end result will be historic,” he added in a post on Truth Social.

His policy changes have sent shockwaves through global supply chains.

In the UK, the FTSE 100 fell almost 5% – its steepest in five years, while Asian markets also dropped and exchanges in Germany and France faced similar declines.

Billionaire Elon Musk, a close ally of Trump and responsible for the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), said the US and Europe could move towards a “zero-tariff situation”, which could create “a free-trade zone between Europe and North America”.

His comments, made as he travelled to meet government ministers in Italy, came days before the Trump administration introduces tariffs on goods of up to 50% on 9 April to what it calls the “worst offenders” for trade imbalances with the US.

The EU is due to be hit with a 20% levy.

In his first term in office, Trump scorned a proposed free-trade deal with the EU, called the Transatlantic Trade and Investment partnership, but a bubbling trade war was ended after he put threats to impose tariffs on European cars aside in 2018.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had a series of calls with world leaders following Trump’s tariffs announcement on Wednesday.

In a readout issued after Sir Keir’s conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, Downing Street said the pair “agreed that a trade war was in nobody’s interests but nothing should be off the table”.

Sir Keir and Macron also “shared their concerns about the global economic and security impact, particularly in South East Asia”.

China, the world’s second-largest economy, was hardest hit by Trump’s “reciprocal tariffs” towards nations he deems unfriendly to America’s interest.

On Friday, Beijing announced retaliatory tariffs of 34% on US imports – the same as Washington imposed on imports from China. Beijing also filed a complaint against the new tariffs to the World Trade Organisation.

In a statement a day later, China’s foreign ministry urged Washington to “stop using tariffs as a weapon to suppress China’s economy and trade, and stop undermining the legitimate development rights of the Chinese people”.

In Washington DC and across the US, around 1,200 demonstrations were expected to take place on Saturday, marking the largest single day of protest against President Trump and Musk since the White House announced policy changes to how the US government is led – expanding the power of the executive branch.

The White House is yet to comment on the protests, but Trump was pictured by an AP photographer – excluded from the press pool – with an issue of the New York Post in his hand, open to an article about China.

The impact on trade since tariffs came into place has been palpable.

In the UK, Jaguar Land Rover announced it would “pause” all shipments to the US as it works to “address the new trading terms”.

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

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Mohammed Kudus marks injury return with an assist as West Ham share spoils with Bournemouth

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Ghana international Mohammed Kudus Ghana international Mohammed Kudus

Ghana international Mohammed Kudus delivered an outstanding performance on his return from injury as West Ham United shared the spoils with Bournemouth in the Premier League.

The Black Stars midfielder lasted 84 minutes as he made a triumphant return from injury on Saturday afternoon.

Kudus marked his comeback with an assist, helping the Hammers secure an important draw at the London Stadium.

Before this game, the former Ajax star had missed the side’s 1-0 defeat to Wolves on Tuesday night due to an injury setback.

West Ham were handed an early scare after Brazilian striker Evanilson gave Bournemouth the lead in the 38th minute, with the visitors going into the break ahead.

The hosts made a strong start to the second half, grabbing the equalizer through German international Niclas Füllkrug in the 61st minute.

Seven minutes later, the Hammers found the net again to take the lead through Jarrod Bowen, who was set up by Kudus.

However, the Cherries showed determination and resilience in the highly competitive clash, leveling the score in the 79th minute through Evanilson once again, as the game ended in a stalemate.

Kudus was replaced in the 84th minute by Brazilian youngster Luis Guilherme.

The Ghanaian international has struggled to replicate his impressive debut-season form, scoring only three goals and providing three assists in 28 appearances. A 13-game goal drought and a five-game suspension have further hindered his progress.

Meanwhile, his compatriot Antoine Semenyo lasted the entire duration of the match for Bournemouth.

‘No wigs please’ – the new rules shaking up beauty pageants

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Long, flowing wigs and weave extensions have dominated the catwalks of Ivory Coast’s massively popular beauty pageants for years.

Contestants in the West African nation often spend a huge amount of money on their appearance, from outfits to hairdos – with very few choosing the natural look.

In more than six decades, there have only been two notable exceptions, the most recent was Marlène-Kany Kouassi, who took the Miss Ivory Coast title in 2022 – looking resplendent with her short natural hair, the crown becoming her only adornment.

Her victory was not only unusual in Ivory Coast but across the world, where Western beauty standards are often the desired look both for those entering contests and for the judges.

Changes are slowly creeping in – last December Angélique Angarni-Filopon, from the French Caribbean island of Martinique, made headlines when she was crowned Miss France, mainly because of her age – she is 34 – and she also sported short Afro hair.

But this year the organisers of the Ivorian competition are shaking things up right from the start.

Wigs, weaves and hair extensions have been banned from the preliminary stages of the competition, which are held in 13 cities across the country (as well as two abroad for those in the diaspora).

“We want the candidates to be natural – whether with braids or straightened hair, it should be their own. Beauty must be raw,” Victor Yapobi, president of the Miss Ivory Coast organising committee, told the BBC.

Ivory Coast is the only African country enforcing the ban for a national competition.

Mr Yapobi said the organisers in Ivory Coast had long been trying to promote a more natural look – for example cosmetic surgery is a no-no and skin lightening is frowned upon.

“We decided this year to truly showcase the natural beauty of these young women,” he said.

Other changes have also been implemented, like allowing slightly shorter women to compete – the minimum is now 1.67m (5.4ft), increasing the age by three years to 28 and – crucially – lowering the entrance fee by more than $30 (£25) to $50.

“This change in criteria is because we observed these young women were putting up a lot of money to participate, and it was becoming a bit of a budget drain.”

When the BBC joined the first preliminary pageant in Daloa, the main city in the western region of Haut-Sassandra, one contestant was overjoyed by the new rules – feeling it gave her a better chance of success as she prefers not to wear wigs.

“I would see other girls with long, artificial hair, and they looked so beautiful,” 21-year-old Emmanuella Dali, a real estate agent, told the BBC.

“This rule gives me more pride as a woman – as an African woman.”

The move aimed at celebrating natural African beauty has sparked a lively debate across the country, where wigs and extensions are popular.

As a fashion choice, many women love the creativity that wigs and weaves allow them. They also serve as what is called “protective style”, which means minimising the daily pulling and tugging on hair that can cause breakages.

This was reflected by some contestants in Daloa who felt the rule removed an element of personal expression.

“I’m a wigs fan. I love wigs,” said contestant and make-up artist Astrid Menekou. The 24-year-old told the BBC she was initially shocked by the no-wig, no-extensions stipulation.

“I didn’t expect this rule! But now? I like my hair, and that’s OK.”

The new rule has made the competitors think more about concepts of beauty – and changed some opinions, like those of Laetitia Mouroufie.

“Last year, I had extensions because I thought that’s what beauty meant,” the 25-year-old student told the BBC.

“This year, I feel more confident being myself.”

Should the competition influence attitudes beyond the pageant world, it could have huge economic implications.

Wigs from human hair, which can last for years if cared for properly, can range in price from an estimated $200 to $4,000, while synthetic ones cost around $10 to $300.

Ivory Coast’s hair industry is worth more than $300m a year, with wigs and weaves making up a significant share of that market.

“This rule is not good for us,” Ange Sea, a 30-year-old hairdresser in Daloa, told the BBC.

“Many women love wigs. This will hurt our business and we make more money when working with wigs and weaves.”

At her salon, glue will be used to carefully attach wigs to make them look more natural and women will spend hours having weaves and extensions put in.

It shows how deeply engrained wig culture is in West Africa, despite a natural hair movement that has been gaining momentum among black women around the world over the last decade.

Natural hair products have become much more readily available and natural hair influencers proliferate on social media worldwide with advice on how to manage and style natural hair, which can be time-consuming.

It used to be considered unprofessional to wear one’s hair naturally and it would have been extraordinary to see black female TV stars on screen or CEOs in the boardroom with natural hair.

According to Florence Edwige Nanga, a hair and scalp specialist in the main Ivorian city of Abidjan, this is often still the case in Ivory Coast.

“Turn on the TV [here], and you’ll see almost every journalist wearing a wig,” the trichologist told the BBC.

“These beauty enhancements are fashionable, but they can also cause problems – like alopecia or scalp infections,” she warned.

With the preliminary rounds under way, arguments over whether pageants should be setting beauty rules or women should decide such things for themselves continues.

The outcome may be that there is more of an acceptance of both in Ivory Coast, allowing women to switch styles up – between natural hair and wigs and weaves.

Mr Yapobi said the feedback he had received over the new rules was “extraordinary” and clearly showed it was having an impact.

“Everyone congratulates us. Everyone, even from abroad. I receive emails and WhatsApp messages from everywhere congratulating us for wanting to return to our roots.”

The money I took from Bawumia is paining Ghanaians that is why they want me to fail

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Rapper-turned-singer King Paluta has sparked reactions online following a controversial post he made on his official X handle, alleging that some Ghanaians are displeased with him over money he received from Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. The musician’s statement has stirred conversations across social media platforms, with many questioning the motive behind his remarks.

King Paluta, known for his hit song “Aseda,” claimed that the supposed financial support he received from the former Vice President, who was also the Presidential Candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), continues to cause displeasure among certain individuals. He suggested that the backlash stems from his involvement in Dr. Bawumia’s campaign, where his songs were actively used on campaign platforms.

In his post, the rapper expressed his frustration with detractors, suggesting that their resentment is fueled by envy and a desire to see him fail. “The money I took from Baweezy dier, epain boys ooo,” he wrote, using a playful tone to address the situation. Despite the casual nature of his post, it has raised questions about the intersection of politics and entertainment in Ghana.

King Paluta believes that his association with the former Vice President has contributed to attempts to undermine his success, particularly as he vies for the Artiste of the Year award at the upcoming TGMA. According to him, certain individuals are actively working against his chances of winning the prestigious accolade.

As conversations continue online, fans and critics alike have shared varied opinions, with some supporting King Paluta’s boldness and others questioning his decision to publicize the matter. While it remains unclear how much influence his political associations may have on his career, the artist seems unfazed, choosing instead to confront his critics head-on.

King Paluta’s remarks add another layer to the ongoing discourse about celebrity endorsements and their potential impact on public perception and career progress.

Source: GhBase

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EeyzB44MU/?mibextid=wwXIfr

CDM criticises Felix Kwakye Ofosu’s ‘clown’ comment directed at Rev Ntim Fordjour

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The Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) has condemned Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu for calling Reverend John Ntim Fordjour a “clown” amid a serious national security debate.

In a statement on Sunday, CDM described Mr Kwakye Ofosu’s comment toward his colleague, MP and Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee, as “appalling,” “crude,” and a “stain on the dignity of the Presidency.”

According to the group, the insult, made via social media, violates not only the ethical expectations of public officers but also Parliamentary Standing Orders, which prohibit the use of offensive and derogatory language.

“Mr. Kwakye Ofosu represents not just himself or his political party but the Presidency,” the statement read.

“His behaviour is a stain on the dignity of that high office. It brings the Presidency into disrepute and threatens the values of civil discourse in our democratic tradition.”

The insult came amid rising tension over serious allegations of drug trafficking and money laundering involving aircraft that transited through Ghanaian airspace.

Rev. Fordjour has been one of the most vocal figures demanding transparency, citing constitutional provisions that empower Parliament to provide oversight, particularly in matters of national security.

The CDM defended Fordjour’s right to raise questions, calling it a legitimate exercise of parliamentary responsibility.

“His concerns should not be summarily dismissed or politicised. Rather, they should be subjected to objective scrutiny through institutional channels.”

The group further demanded a public apology from Mr. Kwakye Ofosu to Rev. Fordjour and the nation, and urged President John Dramani Mahama to discipline his appointee.

“Leadership must reflect discipline, humility, and statesmanship, especially in moments of national uncertainty.”

The CDM also called on government agencies, including National Security and Civil Aviation Authorities, to release all relevant flight and cargo records regarding the suspicious aircraft and allow for an impartial investigation, potentially with international oversight.

“This is not a moment for showmanship and insults. It is a moment for facts, transparency, and the rule of law,” the statement added.

Reverend Fordjour has not publicly responded to the insult but has reiterated the need for a full probe, saying Ghana must not become a safe corridor for transnational criminal activity.

As political tempers rise, CDM is urging calm, cooperation, and integrity: “Ghana is bigger than any individual or political party. Let us rise above politics and pursue the truth.”

A Fashionable Touch to Any Wardrobe

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Lace has always been a timeless fabric that evokes elegance, femininity, and sophistication. With its delicate patterns and intricate details, lace remains a staple in women’s fashion, continually evolving with new trends. The latest lace style designs offer a range of possibilities, from casual wear to high-end couture, allowing women to express their unique sense of style.

One of the most popular trends in lace designs is the lace-overlay dresses. These garments feature a sheer lace fabric layered over a solid base, creating a beautiful contrast between opacity and transparency. Whether it’s a romantic evening dress or a trendy cocktail look, lace overlay dresses provide a touch of allure and grace. Designers are also experimenting with lace in asymmetrical cuts, which add an edgy twist to the classic lace dress, making it suitable for more modern, fashion-forward women.

Lace sleeves are another hot trend, offering a subtle yet sophisticated way to incorporate lace into any outfit. Whether it’s a blouse, sweater, or even a jacket, lace sleeves can add a delicate and airy feel to a structured garment. This design works particularly well in blouses and maxi dresses, where the intricate detailing on the sleeves contrasts beautifully with the simplicity of the rest of the garment.

For a more playful and bohemian vibe, lace-trimmed skirts and shorts are gaining popularity. These pieces combine the softness of lace with more casual silhouettes, making them perfect for summer. Paired with a simple top, lace-trimmed skirts can create a chic yet relaxed look.

Another prominent trend is the lace bodysuit. Perfect for layering or wearing as a statement piece, lace bodysuits provide an intimate and sexy touch while maintaining a level of sophistication. When worn under blazers or paired with high-waisted jeans, they offer a balance of sensuality and style.

Lace tops, particularly those with intricate patterns or mixed with other fabrics like velvet or silk, are also making waves. These pieces can elevate any casual or formal outfit, adding a layer of texture and depth.

In conclusion, lace continues to be a versatile and ever-evolving fabric in women’s fashion. From elegant evening wear to casual, everyday pieces, lace offers a timeless yet modern touch, making it a must-have in every woman’s wardrobe.

IDEG presents memorandum to Constitution Review Committee 

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By Christopher Arko

Accra, April 5, GNA – The Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG) on Friday presented its memorandum on proposals for constitutional amendments and Institutional reforms to the Constitution Review Committee (CRC) at its sitting in Accra.

IDEG’s memorandum focuses on reforms in Local Governance, Political Parties, Public Service and Public Enterprise.

Dr Emmanuel Akwetey, the Executive Director of IDEG, together with Prof Kwesi Jonah, Senior Research Fellow of the Institute, presented the memorandum to the CRC.  

Prof. Kwesi Prempeh, the Chairman of the CRC, who received the memorandum and acknowledged IDEG’s untiring work in the areas of research, advocacy, policy development, good governance and healthy democratic practices over the years. 

He  expressed gratitude to IDEG for its participation and contributions to the work of the CRC and the process for constitution amendments. 

The CRC is currently engaging with citizens, institutions and organisations on their views and recommendations for amendments of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution. 

President John Dramani Mahama, in fulfillment of his campaign promise to see through the implementation of the constitution review process, established in January, a Constitution Review Committee to undertake the exercise.

It has a six-month timeline to submit recommendations to the government.

The committee is expected to identify and address the gaps in, and the challenges with the implementation of previous constitution review works.

These include the work done by the 2010 Constitution Review Commission and the 2023 Constitution Review Consultative Committee.

GNA

ABD

Asamankese Police hunt for land guards after fatal shooting of farmer

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The Asamankese police are on a manhunt for two land guards allegedly involved in the shooting of a 45-year-old farmer, Azumah Zakari, in Nyanoa, a farming community in the Upper West Akim District of the Eastern Region.

The unfortunate incident occurred on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at approximately 2 p.m. Kobby Asaa and his accomplice, whose name has been given as Red, reportedly shot the farmer in the left leg following a minor disagreement over a piece of land.

Azumah, who bled profusely due to the lack of timely transportation to convey him from the farm to the Asamankese Government Hospital, was pronounced dead upon arrival.

According to sources, Kobby Asaa and Red, who are currently on the run, are notoriously known for their land guard activities in the area and have been identified as close associates of the Chief of Nyanoa, Osabarima Opoku Okyere II.

Personnel from the Nyanoa and Asamankese Divisional Police Command visited the scene to commence investigations and are appealing to the general public to provide information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects.

Zakari Azumah’s body has since been deposited at the Asamankese Government Hospital morgue for autopsy and preservation.

The wife of the deceased farmer, Adwoa Augustina, who spoke to journalists, has called for justice for her slain husband.

Read also

Govt assures swift action on U.S. tariffs to safeguard trade, investment

I’ve been kidnapped – 2Baba makes light of mother’s claim that he’s gone missing

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Nigerian singer Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has finally addressed his missing persons report to security agencies, which his mother made.

Although the singer has been sighted in public on several occasions since the missing person’s report, 2Baba has now addressed it.

The singer spoke on the controversy while performing at a recent comedy show.

Speaking sarcastically, 2Baba said the show is to help raise ransom for his kidnappers to release him.

He said, “Allegedly I have been missing. Allegedly I have been kidnapped. So as we come Acapella show, this show is to generate money for the kidnappers to release me.”

The singer’s statement comes weeks after his new love, Natasha Osawaru, also responded to insinuations that she is keeping him against his will.

She pointed out that he was an adult who came to her after choosing her. She also spoke about the controversial bead the singer has in his hands and insisted that it was not diabolical.

2Baba and Natasha have continued to make public appearances together despite being targeted for criticism by the public.

Recently, comedian Justice Nuagbe aka Ushbebe called for national prayers for 2Baba over his relationship with Natasha.

In a video, Ushbebe questioned the dynamics of their relationship, suggesting there’s more to it than meets the eye.

Ushbebe expressed unease about how 2Baba follows Natasha around, likening it to a “schoolboy” behaviour.

In addition to the national prayers he called for, the comedian also urged 2Baba to “free himself” from Natasha’s influence.

Four Killed in Violent Clash Between Wiamoase and Ntonso Youth in Ashanti Region.

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Four Killed in Violent Clash Between Wiamoase and Ntonso Youth in Ashanti Region.

News Hub Creator4h

A deadly clash between the youth of Wiamoase and Ntonso in the Ashanti Region has resulted in the deaths of four people, all from Ntonso. The incident occurred when a misunderstanding between the two groups escalated into a violent confrontation

The clash began when Ntonso youth attended a funeral at Wiamoase, where a dispute broke out between the two groups. The situation quickly spiralled out of control, with both sides engaging in a fierce fight. Two women were shot during the altercation, enraging the Wiamoase youth, who then armed themselves with machetes and attacked the Ntonso group.¹

The cause of the dispute is still unclear, but authorities are investigating the incident. The community is in shock, and tensions remain high. This tragic event highlights the need for increased vigilance and conflict resolution efforts in the region.

In 2021, a similar clash occurred between Ntonso and Aboaso youth, resulting in several injuries and property damage. The incident was sparked by a dispute over a drinking spot operating beyond mandated hours. Three suspects were arrested and remanded into police custody.

The recent clash between Wiamoase and Ntonso youth serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked violence and the importance of promoting peaceful conflict resolution. As the investigation continues, the community comes together to mourn the loss of life and work towards healing and rebuilding.

Source: myjoyonline.com

Frimpong Kodua takes to social media for ‘stop drug trafficking’ campaign

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General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua

The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua, has joined voices calling out the government over what he described as growing concerns about drug trafficking in the country.

His call comes amidst a recent public banter involving Reverend Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member of the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament and Member of Parliament for Assin South, who has also raised alarm about alleged drug trafficking activities.

This follows demands for full disclosure from the National Security Secretariat regarding two aircraft that landed in Ghana in early March and later departed for Gran Canaria, a Spanish island, on March 25, 2025.

The two aircraft, an air ambulance and a private jet, reportedly remained in the country for several days before their departure, sparking suspicions about their purpose and cargo.

Reverend Ntim Fordjour called on authorities to disclose the contents of these aircraft, expressing concern that they may have been used for drug trafficking or money laundering.

In response to these growing concerns, Justin Frimpong Kodua took to social media on April 5, 2025, launching an online campaign with the message, “Say no to drug trafficking” with a hashtag: #StopDrugTraffickingInGhana.

The campaign quickly went viral, with citizens, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), sharing similar concerns and calling on the government to take immediate action.

One user posted, “We must not sit down for anyone to destroy the reputation of this country by making it a conduit for drug trafficking. #StopDrugTraffickingInGhana”

Another user wrote, “Where are the drugs busted in Cape Coast? @FelixKwakyeOfo1, We need answers. Say no to drugs. #StopDrugTraffickingInGhana”

A third user added, “We’re not done dealing with the Galamsey menace, and now the greedy old men in power are introducing drug trafficking. #StopDrugTraffickingInGhana”

Meanwhile, President John Mahama has directed the National Security and other relevant agencies to conduct a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the two aircraft that landed in Ghana.

Read some of the messages below:

AM/KA

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:

Hawa Koomson declares intention to contest as NPP National Women’s Organiser after MP loss

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Former Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Mavis Hawa Koomson
Former Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Mavis Hawa Koomson

Former Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Mavis Hawa Koomson, has declared her intention to contest for the position of National Women’s Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) ahead of the 2028 general elections.

According to her, she has previously served as a constituency organiser on the party’s ticket and, therefore, possesses the experience and competence needed to excel in the national position.

Speaking to party faithful during her thank-you tour following her defeat in the 2024 parliamentary elections, Hawa Koomson explained that setbacks in one area of life should not mark the end, but rather serve as a redirection to other opportunities.

She referenced the Biblical story of Joseph to draw parallels with her own experience, saying that just as Joseph’s misfortunes led to his elevation, losing her parliamentary seat has inspired her to pursue a new path in service to the party.

“Let us come together and work for the NPP so the party can become stronger. I know you have already heard the rumours that I am contesting for the National Women’s Organizer position,” she said.

“When you are removed from one place, try another. So I want to officially inform you of my decision. When Joseph in the Bible was sold by his brothers, they thought they were doing him harm, but they were actually preparing him for greatness,” she added.

She noted that many party members had encouraged her to contest for the position, and having already served the party in various capacities, she is confident in her ability to serve even better on a national level.

“A lot of people have called on me to contest, and after serving you in the constituency, I will contest. Pray for me, and just as I made you proud here, I will do the same if given the opportunity at the national level.”

AM/KA

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:

‘A bold fight against corruption’ – CHRAJ boss reflects on NACAP’s 10-year journey

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Dr Joseph Whittal, Commissioner of CHRAJ Dr Joseph Whittal, Commissioner of CHRAJ

Dr Joseph Whittal, Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), has underscored the urgency and gravity of Ghana’s anti-corruption fight.

Dr Whittal made these remarks at the launch of the final evaluation report on Ghana’s maiden National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP 2015–2024) in Accra on April 4, 2025.

In his address, the CHRAJ boss emphasised that the end-of-term evaluation marked a critical moment in Ghana’s democratic journey, reflecting on the country’s 10-year strategic battle against corruption.

“Today, we launch the evaluation report of Ghana’s 10-year anti-corruption strategy, a bold fight against a canker threatening our nation’s future. The stakes are high, the questions are tough, but the mission is vital,” he said.

He described NACAP as a comprehensive, coordinated framework that integrated prevention, education, enforcement, and capacity-building, and called on all stakeholders to soberly reflect on its impact.

Quoting the Constitution, Dr Whittal reiterated CHRAJ’s constitutional mandate to investigate corruption and related offenses and noted that Ghana’s fight against corruption must be a national endeavor, rooted in institutional integrity and supported by independent bodies like the Judiciary, the Attorney General’s Office, EOCO, and the OSP.

He acknowledged that while the strategy had seen some success, the evaluation raised sobering questions, “Have we moved forward or backward? Have we ensured value for money in our implementation efforts? Do we need another NACAP, or should we throw our hands in the air?”

He further recognized the efforts of various NACAP implementing bodies, including CHRAJ’s own NACAP Implementation Support Unit (NISU), the High-Level Implementation Committee (HiLIC), the Monitoring Committee (MONICOM), and numerous civil society and private sector stakeholders.

Delivering the keynote address, the Guest of Honor and Chairperson of HiLIC, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, who also serves as Deputy Chief of Staff, admitted that the evaluation report “has not given us a clean slate” in Ghana’s anti-corruption efforts.

Citing findings from Transparency International, Afrobarometer, and the Ghana Statistical Service, she lamented that corruption continues to erode public trust and accountability.

“Corruption remains a significant challenge that undermines social justice, sustainable economic growth, and democratic principles upon which societies are built,” Nana Oye stated.

Nana Oye also referenced international success stories in the Dominican Republic, Indonesia, and Zambia, stressing that Ghana can similarly turn the tide if it draws from best practices, embraces digital governance, strengthens institutions, and fosters political will.

She highlighted Ghana’s dip in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI), with a drop from 43 in 2023 to 42 in 2024, signaling declining public confidence in anti-corruption efforts.

Referencing scandals uncovered by the “Operation Recover All Loot” Committee (ORAL), she pointed to staggering financial losses, including the controversial $58 million National Cathedral, the $222.7 million Bank of Ghana headquarters, and the $4.5 billion National Service Scheme ghost names scandal.

To reverse the trend, she outlined President John Mahama’s renewed anti-corruption commitment, citing initiatives from the NDC’s “Resetting Ghana” manifesto, including:

•Launching “Operation Recover All Loot” to trace and recover stolen assets.

•Creating a State Assets Registry.

•Enacting the conduct of Public Officers Bill.

•Establishing a special court to try corruption-related offenses.

•Supporting the Auditor-General’s surcharge powers.

•Curbing abuse of procurement procedures.

AM/MA

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:

Keche, Arkay-S headline maiden Easter Concert in Paris on April 19

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The event aims to celebrate the vibrancy of Afrobeat The event aims to celebrate the vibrancy of Afrobeat

Ghanaian Afrobeat duo Keche and rising star Arkay-S are set to headline the maiden edition of the Easter Concert in Paris, scheduled for April 19, 2025.

The much-anticipated event, which aims to celebrate the vibrancy of Afrobeat, gospel, and multicultural artistry, will take place at the renowned New Morning music venue in Paris.

Organised by BNF Joe Etti Production, a France-based events company, in collaboration with Ghana’s Ireva Consults, the Easter Concert promises an unforgettable evening of cross-cultural musical fusion.

It will bring together top performers from Ghana, France, and beyond in a showcase designed to foster international collaboration and promote African music to European audiences.

Alongside Keche and Arkay-S, the lineup features Ghanaian legends Adane Best and Nii Funny, whose performances will blend Afrobeat rhythms with themes of faith and celebration. The gospel side of the concert will be anchored by Elijah the Worshipper, adding spiritual depth to the experience.

France’s A Lucas, Dorothée D’Ornasse, Tee Kae, and Kwame Sucre will also take the stage, bringing a European flair to the concert. Italian artist Sharkura adds an international dimension, ensuring a night rich in musical diversity.

Adding to the excitement are two highly regarded DJs: DJ Mac Tonto, a three-time Ghana DJ Awards winner known for his vibrant sets combining 90s hip-hop, Afrobeats, Amapiano, and Dancehall; and DJ Clenarie, a French-Ghanaian talent with a reputation for electrifying mixes at major Parisian venues such as Palais Maillot and Faust Paris.

The Easter Concert is positioned as more than just a musical event; it’s a cultural bridge.

Organisers hope it will not only spotlight African talent in Europe but also enhance cultural diplomacy and economic cooperation between Ghana and France.

It is also expected to attract music lovers and stakeholders from across Europe and Africa, stimulating tourism and benefiting local businesses and vendors in Paris.

AM/MA

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:

Akufo-Addo’s controversial statue to be remounted after prophet pays GH¢40K for replacement

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The original statue, erected in January was completely destroyed by unknown vandals The original statue, erected in January was completely destroyed by unknown vandals

Efforts are underway to replace the vandalized statue of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo at the Effia Nkwanta Hospital roundabout in the Sekondi-Takoradi metropolis of the Western Region.

The replacement initiative is being spearheaded by Prophet Elija Joshua, founder of the Glory and Dominion Ministry, who has personally funded the construction of a new statue.

The preacher, who also contested as an independent parliamentary candidate for the Evalue-Ajomoro Gwira Constituency in the December 2024 general elections, says the move is in fulfillment of a promise he made after unknown individuals destroyed the original monument earlier this year.

Speaking on Connect FM, Prophet Joshua revealed that he has already paid GH¢40,000 to a sculptor to begin work on the new statue.

According to him, the project is progressing steadily and is expected to be completed by May this year.

“Arrangements are being made to meet with former President Akufo-Addo, the Western Region House of Chiefs, the Regional Minister, and other key stakeholders for their consent before the statue is unveiled,” he was quoted as saying by onuaonline.com.

The prophet emphasized that the new statue is intended to be mounted at the same location where the first one stood, in recognition of Akufo-Addo’s developmental contributions to the region. However, he made it clear that if authorities refuse to permit the installation at the original site, he will instead carry the statue on the back of his pickup truck as a mobile tribute.

He cited several legacy projects initiated by the former president in the Western Region, including the conversion of the Effia Nkwanta Hospital into a teaching hospital, the construction of the Takoradi Market Circle, the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange, and the ongoing dualization of the Sekondi-Takoradi and Agona Nkwanta roads.

“These are visible legacies left behind by Akufo-Addo. If I’m not allowed to place the statue at its original site, I’ll either take it to my hometown or drive around with it on my pickup truck,” he said.

The original statue, erected in January to honour the former president, was completely destroyed by unknown vandals shortly after its unveiling.

AM/KA

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:

Jaguar Land Rover to pause US shipments over tariffs

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Jaguar Land Rover has announced it will Jaguar Land Rover has announced it will “pause” all shipments to the US

Jaguar Land Rover has announced it will “pause” all shipments to the US as it works to “address the new trading terms” after tariffs were imposed earlier this week.

A 25% levy on car imports came into force on Thursday, one of several measures announced by US President Donald Trump which have sent shockwaves through global supply chains.

The US is the second largest export market for the UK’s car industry, after the European Union.

In a statement, a Jaguar Land Rover spokesperson said the company was “taking some short-term actions including a shipment pause in April, as we develop our mid to longer-term plans”.

The Coventry-based car manufacturer – which also has sites in Solihull and Wolverhampton – said the US is an “important market for JLR’s luxury brands”.

More cars are exported to the US from the UK than any other good. In a 12-month period up to the end of the third quarter of 2024, the trade was worth £8.3bn, according to the UK trade department.

An initial wave of tariffs on cars came into effect from 3 April, with import taxes on auto parts due to follow next month.

A separate 10% tariff will be imposed on all other UK imports, with higher rates in place for some other major economies.

Global stock markets have incurred heavy losses in recent days as firms grapple with how to adapt to the new trading environment.

The FTSE 100 – which measures the performance of the 100 leading firms listed on the London Stock Exchange – plummeted by 4.9% on Friday, its steepest fall since the start of the pandemic.

Exchanges in Germany and France also saw similar declines.

Sir Keir Starmer has said the UK will take a calm approach to the trade tariffs and has ruled out “jumping into a trade war”.

The prime minister spoke to his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron on Saturday, the first of several discussions planned between Sir Keir and European leaders over the weekend.

Downing Street said Sir Keir and Macron had agreed “a trade war was in nobody’s interest” but “nothing should be off the table”.

On Thursday, the prime minister warned the global economy was “entering a new era” and said there would “clearly” be an impact on the UK.

The government is consulting on products it could impose retaliatory measures on but talks between UK and US officials continue on a possible trade deal which the British governments hopes would see tariffs relaxed.

Sir Keir is holding talks with other European leaders to discuss how to respond to the White House’s trade moves.

2024/25 Ghana Premier League: Week 26 Match Preview

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Hearts of Oak will look to break their four-game winless streak when they host Medeama SC at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday at 3 PM.

Following a security assessment that cleared the venue, the Phobians will return to their traditional home ground—an advantage that could boost their chances.

Hearts of Oak’s recent form has raised concerns, with only one draw in their last four matches. In contrast, Medeama SC is on a two-game winning streak, and both teams remain in contention for the Ghana Premier League title.

This match is crucial for both sides. Sixth-placed Hearts of Oak are seeking their first win in five games, while Medeama SC, who sit seventh, aim to maintain their momentum.

The return to their home ground could spark a turnaround for Hearts of Oak, but Medeama SC’s current form presents a significant challenge.

The Phobians will need to capitalise on home advantage and fan support to overcome their struggles. Meanwhile, Medeama SC’s confidence is high after recent wins, and they’ll look to extend their good run of form.

US cancels visas for South Sudanese over deportation dispute

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US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced that the US is immediately revoking visas issued to all South Sudanese passport holders due to the African nation refusing to accept its citizens who have been removed from the US.

Rubio, in a statement on Saturday, added that the US will also block any arriving citizens of South Sudan, the world’s newest country, at US ports of entry.

He blamed “the failure of South Sudan’s transitional government to accept the return of its repatriated citizens in a timely manner”.

A cornerstone of President Donald Trump’s immigration policy is removing unlawful migrants from the US, with the promise of “mass deportations”.

“It is time for the Transitional Government of South Sudan to stop taking advantage of the United States,” said Rubio.

“Every country must accept the return of its citizens in a timely manner when another country, including the United States, seeks to remove them,” he added.

It comes as fears grow that South Sudan may again descend into civil war.

On 8 March, the US ordered all its non-emergency staff in South Sudan to leave as regional fighting broke out, threatening a fragile peace deal agreed in 2018.

South Sudanese in the US were previously granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS), which allows them to remain in the US for a set period of time.

TPS for South Sudanese in the US had been due to expire by 3 May.

South Sudan, the world’s newest nation, gained independence in 2011 after seceding from Sudan.

But just two years later, following a rift between President Salva Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar, the tensions erupted into a civil war, in which more than 400,000 people were killed.

A 2018 power-sharing agreement between the two stopped the fighting, but key elements of the deal have not been implemented – including a new constitution, an election and the reunification of armed groups into a single army.

Sporadic violence between ethnic and local groups has continued in parts of the country.

Since returning to office, the Trump administration has clashed with international governments over deportations of their nationals from the US.

In January, Colombian President Gustavo Petro barred two US military flights carrying deported migrants from landing in his South American country.

Petro relented after Trump promised to place crippling tariffs and sanctions on Colombia.

The Woman Who Made Our Weekends Unforgettable

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According to GhanaWeb, Grace Omaboe, affectionately known as Maame Dokono, has been a treasured figure in Ghana for decades. Celebrated for her multifaceted talents, she has made remarkable contributions as an actress, singer, television presenter, author, and social advocate, significantly shaping the country’s cultural landscape.

Maame Dokono rose to national prominence in the 1980s with her beloved children’s program, *By The Fireside*. This show became a weekend staple, captivating young audiences with its enchanting storytelling. Her enthusiastic greeting, “pempran,” invited children into a world of imagination filled with folklore and moral lessons. Sponsored by the 31st December Movement, led by Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, the program not only entertained but also encouraged storytelling and creativity among Ghana’s youth.

In addition to her work in children’s television, Maame Dokono became a household name through her compelling performances in Akan Drama and the iconic *Obra* series. Set to a memorable theme song by Nana Kwame Ampadu, *Obra* showcased her exceptional talent and emotional depth, further solidifying her status as one of Ghana’s most revered actresses.

Beyond her artistic endeavors, Maame Dokono has dedicated herself to education and social advocacy. She established the Graceful Grace School in Accra, aiming to provide quality educational opportunities for young minds. Her commitment to championing the rights of women and children has been a cornerstone of her public service, as she tirelessly advocates for marginalized groups in society.

Maame Dokono’s impact extends far beyond the screen; through her unwavering dedication to cultural preservation, education, and social justice, she has become a symbol of resilience and compassion. Her legacy is characterized by empowerment, service, and a lifelong commitment to uplifting others, making her a true national treasure in Ghana.

As Maame Dokono continues to inspire future generations, her contributions remind us of the profound influence one individual can have on a nation’s cultural and social fabric. With her remarkable journey, she stands as a beacon of hope and a role model for many.

Nobody can stop me – Hopeson Adorye declares

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Nobody can stop me – Hopeson Adorye declares

News Hub Creator14h

Ahead of an anticipated campaign walk, Hopeson Adorye, a committed backer of Alan Kyerematen, has pushed back against any attempt to halt the event. He emphasized that the Public Order Act only requires authorities to be notified, not to grant approval. Adorye encouraged the public to join the walk, where Kyerematen and his running mate Kwame Owusu Danso will be in attendance this Saturday.

Adorye proclaimed that the people of Ghana are eager for transformation and predicted that the December 7th elections would mark a major turning point. He called for the election of a government focused on development and national well-being. Referencing Benin’s rise under an independent president, he voiced faith in Kyerematen’s incorruptible leadership to produce similar outcomes for Ghana.

He went on to lambast the dominant NPP and NDC parties, accusing them of consistently failing citizens. Adorye closed with a strong warning to political rivals, stating, “We’ll match them boot for boot in the Greater Accra Region.”

https://youtu.be/FV_kGSKgTWE?si=4nO7ycNWjvPexpwV

You must do dirty work to attain success – Funke Akindele

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Popular Nigerian actress and producer, Funke Akindele, has said that for anyone to succeed and make exploits in life, the person must be willing to do the dirty work.

Speaking on the ‘WithChude’ podcast, Akindele explained that doing the dirty work is one of the requirements of achieving success in one’s career.

As National Security Trails Mastermind; BoG Boxes, Fake Dollars and Gold Bars: The Shocking Story of Sapeiman’s Counterfeit Empire.

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The Director in charge of Special Operations at the National Security Secretariat, Richard Jakpa, has disclosed that a manhunt is still underway for the alleged kingpin behind a sophisticated counterfeiting syndicate busted in Sapeiman, a suburb of Accra, in February.

During an exclusive tour of the crime scene with journalists, Mr. Jakpa revealed that the evidence retrieved from the site described as overwhelming has been left untouched to preserve its integrity as investigations continue.

Unprofessional! – Kow Essuman slams Kwakye Ofosu for calling Rev Fordjour ‘Osofo Moko’

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Kwakye Ofosu (L) and Kow Essuman Kwakye Ofosu (L) and Kow Essuman

Former legal counsel to former President Akufo-Addo, Kow Essuman, has chastised the Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, for making a despicable remark about Assin South Member of Parliament, Rev John Ntim Fordjour.

The Ranking Member of Parliament’s Interior and Defence Committee had earlier demanded a security briefing regarding two aircraft, AirMed Flight N823AM and Cavok Air Antonov An-12B, which he alleged carried cocaine and cash into the country.

In response, Kwakye Ofosu denied the allegations and accused his fellow MP of spewing lies to disrupt government business.

In a post on X on April 5, 2025, Kwakye Ofosu wrote, “Osofo moko Ntimfordjour, what a clown!”

However, Essuman slammed the government communications minister for attacking the MP’s personality, particularly regarding his status as a Reverend minister involved in pastoral duties.

The former president’s legal counsel described the minister’s comment as “unprofessional” and stated that it undermines the integrity of public discourse and government as a whole.

“Is this where the discourse has gotten to? Name-calling and personal attacks? This is President Mahama’s government communications minister. Very unprofessional!” Essuman wrote on X on April 5, 2025.

However, some prominent government figures have warned Rev Fordjour that he may face prosecution if he doesn’t provide evidence to substantiate his claims of drug trafficking in the country.

Read Kow Essuman’s comment in the post below:

SB/MA

TDC Ghana pays $1m for software that company can’t access – MD

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TDC Ghana pays $1m for software that company can’t access – MD – Ghana Business News




















Tone down on ‘flash and burn’ politics – Dr. Adutwum urges

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Former Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, has entreated political leaders and actors to shift away from what he terms “flash and burn” politics to collectively drive national development.

According to him, the ideas of opposing parties should not be rejected solely because a ruling government disagrees or seeks to score cheap political points.

Pre-WAFCON friendly: Evelyn Badu’s header earns Ghana victory over Senegal

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By Francis Ofori

Accra, April 06, GNA-The Black Queens of Ghana secured a 1-0 victory over the Teranga Lionesses of Senegal in the first leg encounter of their pre-Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) friendly. 

Badu’s early minute finish was enough to seal a win for the West African giants as they pinned down the home side at their backyard. 

Ghana started the game with some familiar faces to bounce back from their last defeat in Morocco. 

Few minutes into the match, the Black Queens dominated the half of Senegal with some great attacking play. 

After minutes of hunting for an opener, youngster Badu settled on Princess Owusu’s cross in the 24th minute to give Ghana the advantage. 

The search for a second goal continued as Senegal cemented their defense with solid clearances to end the first 45 minutes limping. 

Two quick substitutions from Coach Kim Lars Björkegren in the second half lifted the spirit of the girls who kept mounting pressure on the Teranga Lionesses. 

 Doris Boaduwaa, a dominant force in the Black Queens squad had some clean chances but did not extend the lead of the visiting team. 

Goalkeeper Cynthia Findib came to the rescue of the Queens in the dying minutes to keep her team in the game. 

After an exciting 90 minutes of play, Coach Björkegren found reasons to celebrate as he secured his first win as Head Coach of the Black Queens. 

Ghana would face Senegal in the return leg on Tuesday, April 08,2025. 

GNA

KOA

Ghana’s policy rate of 28% stubbornly high; rate hike coming at a wrong time

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The Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of Ghana on Friday 28th March 2025 hiked the policy rate – the rate at which it lends to commercial banks – by 100 basis points to 28%.

The Committee chaired by the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama cited high inflation, fiscal expansionary and liquidity overhang and geopolitical risks as the major reasons.

It also argued that the increase in the policy rate is to re-anchor the disinflation process, adding, as inflation becomes firmly anchored, the Committee will reassess the scope for a gradual easing in the policy stance.

The Institute of Public Policy and Accountability though recognized the above challenges believes the hike in the policy rate is coming at a wrong time. Inflation is still above 20% but has witnessed two consecutive declines (marginally).

Therefore, the Committee could have observed the situation for some time before adjusting the policy rate up.

An increase in the policy rate is a disincentive to businesses and household consumers as they grapple with high cost of operations and living.

We therefore want the Bank of Ghana to take a second look at its inflation targeting framework. We think that the Bank cannot continue to depend solely on that policy to control money supply.

Many questions have been asked regarding the efficacy of the inflation targeting framework purely because the current drivers of inflation are supply-side and not demand-side.

For us here at the Institute of Public Policy and Accountability, increasing the policy rate anytime inflation is stubbornly high is detriment to the survival of businesses. One, cost of borrowing and repayment of existing loans escalates, thus increasing operational costs.

Secondly, the firms often cut down on their expansion programmes, hence reducing their bottom lines and employment creation. This also affects government revenue mobilization.

Historically, the policy rate has not gone down below 10%. The best periods for a low policy rate were between December 2006 and August 2007 when the rate was 12.5% and again July 2011 and December 2011 when the rate was also 12.5%.

This raises several questions regarding a high-interestionary environment. Ghana has consistently featured as a country in Sub Saharan Africa with very high interest rates.

During these periods of low policy rate, the country’s fiscal regime was robust. A disciplined government is important in keeping the macroeconomic fundamentals (lower interest rates, lower inflation, reduced borrowing, stable exchange rate) stronger and opening the economy for growth.

Inconsistency in fiscal prudence has been our bane over the years. We therefore urged the Bank of Ghana not to shy away from criticizing the government or pulling the plug anytime it foresees the government exhibiting poor fiscal management.

It should not succumb to executive pressure by lending to the government or printing monies. We also want the government to be disciplined by not borrowing excessively or spend beyond its means. Again, borrowed funds should be invested in productive sectors of the economy.

Furthermore, we need to make a conscious effort to keep the base rate of the banks low to make our economy a credit based one.

This will trigger a productive economy rather than the consumptions based one. We don’t want a situation whereby the government is consciously reducing yields on treasury bills to cut its debt repayment.

This practice is not real and does not correspond with the prevailing market conditions as it will put pressure on the Cedi since investor will be considering purchasing foreign-denominated assets such as the US dollar. Rather, the government should institute policies that will expand the economy and generate more revenue.

In addressing the high cost of credit, the Institute is also urging the authorities to prioritize the credit scoring policy that former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia proposed. It is very crucial if we are to address the high Non-Performing Loans in the banking industry.

The advanced economies have embraced credit scoring system and has helped to identify credit worthy individuals and businesses. There are already credit reference bureaus in the system. We believe it would be easier to assign credit ratings on every borrower once they are given the full support.

Meet the two Ghanaian artistes Ja Rule collaborated with in two forgotten tracks

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Popular American Rapper Rapper Ja Rule Popular American Rapper Rapper Ja Rule

Earlier in April, popular American rapper Ja Rule shockingly revealed that he had once featured on a song with a Ghanaian artiste.

However, the song was never released, and the artiste in question had been forgotten by him.

In response, many have delved deep into the annals of time to identify the artiste in question and the song.

Little did many know that Ja Rule had actually collaborated with not one, but two Ghanaian artistes on two different songs.

Let’s take a look at who those artistes are and the unreleased songs they worked on together.

Tinny and Ja Rule (Good Time Rules)

An old studio clip of Ghanaian rap star Tinny and Ja Rule recording a track together resurfaced online. The song they were making was later discovered to be a track called “Good Time Rules.”

The song was recorded during Tinny’s peak years in the late 2000s when he was under his former label, Maddhaus Entertainment, and dominated the charts with hits like ‘Makola Kwakwe,’ ‘Ringtone,’ and ‘Zingolo.’

Despite the hype around the collaboration, the track never saw an official release.

Tinny addressed the situation in a 2015 interview with YFM, explaining that Maddhaus Entertainment retained the rights to the song.

“I did that record when I was with this record label called Maddhaus Entertainment, so they own that record. Everything is with them, and they will decide whether to release it or not.

“Ja Rule came to Ghana, and the management met him, played him some of my records, and he loved them. He said, ‘Let’s go do a song together.’ That was when Richie of Lynx Entertainment was coming up. We brought the data to Maddhaus studio and did it. It’s called ‘Good Time Rules.’ I have it, but I don’t own it, so I wouldn’t want to drop it. But you know, I’ve moved on,” he said.

Morris Babyface and Ja Rule (Hey Love)

Amidst the digging, another collaboration between a Ghanaian artiste and Ja Rule made waves on social media.

Kumasi-based Ghanaian music producer, singer, and songwriter, Marx Morris Twumasi, also known as Morris Babyface or Morris D’Voice Lovit, has also worked on a track titled “Hey Love” with Ja Rule in 2009.

“I went to ‘You Beats,’ and then he gave me Ja Rule’s vocals. I brought it to Kumasi, did a whole programming, and then did the singing as well. I made sure to fit Ja Rule’s rap into the song. But I actually didn’t release it,” he shared in an interview with Hitz FM on April 3, 2025.

While all the artistes involved have moved on, the mystery of what might have happened if “Hey Love” and “Good Time Rules” had been released remains an intriguing ‘what if’ in Ghanaian hip-hop history.

ID/MA

Police pledge to arrest persons who allegedly ‘gang-raped, killed’ a young lady

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Some officers of the Ghana Police Service Some officers of the Ghana Police Service

The Central North Regional Police Command has launched an investigation into the death of a young woman who is suspected to have been gang-raped and killed by unknown persons.

A preliminary investigation conducted by the police revealed that the deceased, identified as Tahiru Zenabu, was found dead in her room with a cloth tied around her neck and blood stains on her hands.

A statement issued by the police indicated that items found at the crime scene included a super glue container, a torn condom package, and an apple.

The incident, which occurred in Kokoase, a suburb of Twifo Praso in the Central Region, has left several residents shocked and fearful.

The victim was an apprentice who was almost finished with her training. According to the police, the investigation is still ongoing to identify those responsible for the crime and prosecute them.

Below is the statement from the Police

POLICE INVESTIGATE ALLEGED MURDER OF A FEMALE ADULT AT KOKOASE IN THE CENTRAL REGION

The Central North Regional Police Command is investigating the alleged murder of a female adult at Kokoase, a suburb of Twifo Praso in the Central Region.

Preliminary investigation has revealed that the deceased, identified as Tahiru Zenabu, was found dead in her room with a cloth tied around her neck and some blood stains on her hands.

Items found at the scene include a super glue container, a torn condom package, and an apple.

The body of the deceased has been deposited at the Twifo Praso Hospital mortuary for preservation and autopsy, while investigation is ongoing to identify and arrest the perpetrators of this heinous crime to face justice.

24-hour premium service to reduce investment processing delays – GIPC CEO

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Video | GIPC introduces 24-hour service to attract more foreign investment

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Antoine Semenyo determined to bounce back with Bournemouth

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Antoine Semenyo, Footballer Antoine Semenyo, Footballer

Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo expressed frustration after his team’s 2-2 draw with West Ham United, but he’s determined to bounce back.

“It’s definitely frustrating,” Semenyo said. “We came here with the objective to win. We dominated the game. It’s just frustrating.”

Despite the Cherries’ recent struggles—having won only one of their last eight games—Semenyo emphasised the importance of moving forward.

“We just have to pick ourselves up and go again,” he said. “We’re going through a sticky run, but a point is better than no point. We can build on that going into next week’s game.”

Semenyo remains optimistic about Bournemouth’s chances, stating, “We need to pick ourselves up as a team and keep going. We’re still pushing [for European football].”

Despite slipping to ninth place and falling out of European qualification contention, Semenyo’s determination highlights the team’s resilience.

With a focus on regrouping and improving, Bournemouth looks to bounce back from their recent setbacks. Can Semenyo’s determination spark a turnaround for the Cherries?

Samson Lied, So I Walked Out – Ntim Fordjour Melts Down as Screenshots Expose the Truth

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Samson Lied, So I Walked Out – Ntim Fordjour Melts Down as Screenshots Expose the Truth

News Hub Creator9h

In a fresh twist to the Newsfile fiasco, Assin South MP Rev. Ntim Fordjour claimed he stormed out of the studio because “Samson Anyenini fabricated negative feedback from the audience.”

But the host has now hit back with receipts—literally.

Samson has published screenshots of the actual messages he received during the live show, showing viewers’ real-time disapproval of Fordjour’s behavior and commentary. The messages, shared across platforms, disprove the Reverend’s claims of fabrication.

Yet Fordjour is digging in. He insists he had “credible intelligence” that Samson manufactured the audience reactions. For him, that “fact” justified his dramatic exit.

Commentators are now slamming the MP’s meltdown as a calculated distraction.

But it’s #FixTheCountry Convenor Oliver Barker-Vormawor who brought the heat—and the focus. In a viral Facebook post, he wrote:

“This is the summary of today, in case you are confused. Now can we move on and discuss Galamsey? We are still being poisoned.”

Barker’s callout is a brutal reminder: while politicians trade jabs on live TV, Ghanaians are still drinking mercury-laced water.

As screenshots trend and Fordjour’s credibility unravels, Barker wants the public to refocus: illegal mining is still destroying lives, and yet the headlines are filled with political egos.

https://web.facebook.com/share/p/1AbqFR3A58/

Richard Jakpa Exposes Hidden Containers—What Was Inside Shook the Nation

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Richard Jakpa Exposes Hidden Containers—What Was Inside Shook the Nation

News Hub Creator12h

In a startling development, Richard Jakpa and his investigative team uncovered a massive counterfeit operation after National Security intercepted several suspicious containers. The contents of these containers, once examined, revealed a disturbing stockpile of counterfeit goods, sparking national concern.

According to reports, the containers were seized based on intelligence that suggested they were part of an illegal distribution network. Upon inspection, security personnel discovered large quantities of fake products, including imitations of branded goods and potentially harmful items that could have entered the consumer market undetected.

Screenshots of the container contents, shared with the public, show the scale of the operation and the level of sophistication used in packaging the counterfeit items. This discovery raises questions about how such a large shipment bypassed initial checks and made its way into the country.

Richard Jakpa, speaking on the issue, commended National Security for their swift action and called for stricter surveillance and inter-agency collaboration to combat the growing threat of counterfeit trade. He also urged the public to be cautious and report suspicious goods or activities.

This incident is one of several major busts made by security agencies in the first quarter of 2025, reinforcing the urgent need to strengthen border control and monitoring systems.

Authorities have confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify the masterminds behind the operation and dismantle the entire supply chain. They have assured the public of their commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of goods within the country.

Source:GhanaWeb

Phyna bounced from Lagos restaurant over indecent dressing

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The 27-year-old reality TV star dressed up to go have dinner at a restaurant in Lagos named Cali and was refused entrance because of how she was dressed.

To share her experience, Phyna took to her X (formerly Twitter) page. She also showed off the outfit in a short clip and then laughed about it with her fans and followers.

In her words, “So I went to have dinner at one CALI RESTAURANT Abi what they call the place😂😂😂 omo they said I’m dressed indecently and I can’t enter o. WTF!!!!!”

In the clip, Phyna can be seen in a revealing black jumpsuit with a burgundy afro wig.

Some of the comments under the post berated her for the outfit while others stated that the restaurant is in the right.

If you wear a hookers uniform, be prepared to be treated like one,” wrote a user.
The owner has every right to set rules for their business premises,” said another.

So another hotel the other day that brought something for the lady to cover her self….Great one…If all these restaurants will start doing this, it will definitely be a big step to correcting this error in the society,” someone else wrote.

Recall that Phyna dropped her surname and publicly disowned her family on her X page recently. She said that she was tossed around relatives’ homes as a child, adding that she should’ve suspected foul play all along.

Phyna’s outburst comes one year after her father, Felix Otabor, claimed she abandoned the family after her BBNaija win. During an interview, Mr Otabor claimed Phyna never returned home after her victory.

Tsatsu Tsikata Condemns Supreme Court’s Block on By-Elections, Warns of Potential Instability

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Tsatsu Tsikata Condemns Supreme Court’s Block on By-Elections, Warns of Potential Instability

News Hub Creator14h

Ghana’s Supreme Court has sparked controversy by turning down an appeal from Speaker Alban Bagbin to authorize by-elections for three parliamentary seats that became vacant after a fatal accident claimed the lives of three MPs. The ruling has prompted intense criticism from both legal experts and political observers, including noted lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata.

Bagbin had pushed for the elections to avoid legislative paralysis and ensure that every constituency maintains its voice in Parliament. However, the court maintained that it lacked the legal capacity to instruct the Electoral Commission to proceed with the elections.

Tsikata strongly opposed the verdict, calling it constitutionally flawed and a disservice to democracy. He argued that failing to hold by-elections deprives entire communities of their right to be represented, which contradicts the spirit of Ghana’s Constitution. “This decision is not just technical—it undermines the very foundation of our democracy,” he said.

He stressed that this issue carries significant democratic weight and should not be reduced to a matter of legal procedure. The absence of elected representatives, he warned, could stall key parliamentary actions and risk broader instability.

With pressure mounting, Tsikata urged state institutions to take immediate action to restore parliamentary balance. As the nation watches this debate unfold, many are demanding assurances that the democratic process remains intact and responsive to the will of the people.

Source ghanaweb

US tariffs: Ministers of Trade, Finance and Foreign Affairs to engage US Ambassador on April 7

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The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness & Industry has assured the Ghanaian private sector, especially major exporters, investors and the general public of the government’s commitment to engage the USA on the current imposition of tariffs on Ghanaian products.

This is to avoid trade disruptions and investment decisions in the country.

In a statement, the Ministry said the Ministers of Trade, Agribusiness & Industry, Finance and Foreign Affairs will immediately engage the US Ambassador to Ghana on Monday, April 7, 2025.

It added that as a matter of urgency, it is also engaging relevant stakeholders to determine the extent of the effect and assess the full impact of the US tariffs on the country’s economy.

“Furthermore, various strategies are under consideration to mitigate the immediate impact on Ghana’s trade. Most of the Ghanaian exports to the US market enjoy the duty-free quota-free market access through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which is a nonreciprocal preferential trade agreement between the USA and eligible African countries, including Ghana”, the statement explained.

The USA announced on April 2, 2025, the imposition of a 10% universal tariff, effective April 5, 2025, covering imports from all countries including Ghana into the United States. However, goods that are on transit as of the date are exempt from the announced tariffs.

In addition, reciprocal tariffs were also imposed on over 50 countries with rates ranging from 11% to 50%, effective April 9, 2025.

According to the Executive Order, the tariffs are being imposed pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA) due to economic and national security implications of the country’s global trade deficits. The Executive Order specifically exempts certain products from the universal and reciprocal tariffs. These products include copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, lumber articles, energy and energy products, and certain critical minerals.

According to the Trade Ministry, the US market provides a ready-made complementary market destination for several important priority export products from Ghana, such as apparel, cocoa derivatives, gold jewellery, shea butter, horticulture products including root crops (Yam), fruits, vegetables, cashew, etc.

The Ministry stressed the government’s commitment to ensuring that the private sector is well-informed on the details of the imposition to avoid trade disruption as well as ensure predictability of investment decisions in the country.

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Frimpong Kodua takes to social media for ‘stop drug trafficking’ campaign

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General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua

The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua, has joined voices calling out the government over what he described as growing concerns about drug trafficking in the country.

His call comes amidst a recent public banter involving Reverend Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member of the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament and Member of Parliament for Assin South, who has also raised alarm about alleged drug trafficking activities.

This follows demands for full disclosure from the National Security Secretariat regarding two aircraft that landed in Ghana in early March and later departed for Gran Canaria, a Spanish island, on March 25, 2025.

The two aircraft, an air ambulance and a private jet, reportedly remained in the country for several days before their departure, sparking suspicions about their purpose and cargo.

Reverend Ntim Fordjour called on authorities to disclose the contents of these aircraft, expressing concern that they may have been used for drug trafficking or money laundering.

In response to these growing concerns, Justin Frimpong Kodua took to social media on April 5, 2025, launching an online campaign with the message, “Say no to drug trafficking” with a hashtag: #StopDrugTraffickingInGhana.

The campaign quickly went viral, with citizens, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), sharing similar concerns and calling on the government to take immediate action.

One user posted, “We must not sit down for anyone to destroy the reputation of this country by making it a conduit for drug trafficking. #StopDrugTraffickingInGhana”

Another user wrote, “Where are the drugs busted in Cape Coast? @FelixKwakyeOfo1, We need answers. Say no to drugs. #StopDrugTraffickingInGhana”

A third user added, “We’re not done dealing with the Galamsey menace, and now the greedy old men in power are introducing drug trafficking. #StopDrugTraffickingInGhana”

Meanwhile, President John Mahama has directed the National Security and other relevant agencies to conduct a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the two aircraft that landed in Ghana.

Read some of the messages below:

AM/KA

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:

The cost of reclaiming mined-out-area said to be $44,000 a hectare

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The cost of reclaiming mined-out-area said to be $44,000 a hectare – Ghana Business News




















Prison officer at scandal-hit jail suspended over ‘inappropriate inmate fling’

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Katerina Tatus, 23, is accused of having an affair with an inmate and was ‘marched to the gates’ of her prison after it was exposed during and anti-corruption investigation

Katerina Tatus was suspended
Katerina Tatus was suspended

A female prison officer at a scandal-hit jail has been suspended over claims of a fling with an inmate, according to reports.

Katerina Tatus, 23, was said to have been “marched to the gates” of HMP Feltham after the alleged affair was uncovered by an anti-corruption unit.

Tatus, who is believed to have worked in the prison service for around three years, is reported to have been suspended after a staff member submitted an intelligence report. And police are now reportedly investigating claims of an inappropriate relationship between the guard and the lag.

A source told the Sun: “Katerina was stopped and marched to the gates by security. She has been accused of having an affair and being too close to a prisoner.

Katerina Tatus was a prison officer at HMP Feltham
Katerina Tatus was a prison officer at HMP Feltham

“It is unclear if it was a Feltham inmate or if something happened with someone at another jail. It was even suggested a mobile number of hers had been used by a prisoner.”

Her suspension has “sent shockwaves around the jail”, the source is quoted as saying.

They added: “Katerina is a pretty girl and was popular with staff and inmates. If she has done what she is accused of, though, she has ruined her career.

Katerina Tatus is said to have had an affair with an inmate
Katerina Tatus is said to have had an affair with an inmate

“But if Katerina has been misbehaving, she is not the only one in Feltham. There have been other claims of affairs and lots of find of material like phones and vapes which they fear have been smuggle in by staff.”

Bosses at the prison, in west London, are said to be “really worried about misconduct and corruption” after high profile scandals in recent months.

It operates as a prison for inmates aged 18 to 30 and a separate young offenders’ institution for under-18s. Tatus worked in the adult prison.

The jail operates as a prison for inmates aged 18 to 30 and a separate young offenders’ institution for under-18s
The jail operates as a prison for inmates aged 18 to 30 and a separate young offenders’ institution for under-18s

A report last year found Feltham A – the young offenders institution – had the highest levels of violence of any prison in Britain.

And it was reported in January that a teen being held Feltham for plotting a terror attack had stabbed several prison officers while he was banged up.

On her Facebook page, which has now been deactivated, Tatus posed pictures of herself holidaying and partying with pals. Under one snap, a follower wrote: “Prettiest one in Feltham.”

Tatus posted pictures of herself on Facebook
Tatus posted pictures of herself on Facebook

It comes after a record number of female prison officers have been fired for romps with male lags in recent years. A total of 29 got the boot from 2020 to 2022, compared with nine between 2017 and 2019.

Linda de Sousa Abreu, 30, was jailed for 15 months in January after being filmed having sex in a cell with burglar Linton Weirich in HMP Wandsworth.

Jessica McCleary, 29, was given a suspended sentence over a romance with inmate Levi Weekes at HMP Berwyn, north Wales.

Tatus was reported as denying the suspension, telling the Sun: “I didn’t do anything, I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

A Prison Service spokesperson said: “It would be inappropriate to comment on a live Police investigation.”

Government’s commitment to Islamic banking, finance commendable – ASWAJ

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Sheikh Mohammed Kamil Mohammed and President John Dramani Mahama Sheikh Mohammed Kamil Mohammed and President John Dramani Mahama

The government has been praised for its continued commitment to ensuring that Islamic Banking and Finance (IBF) becomes a reality in Ghana sooner rather than later.

According to Sheikh Mohammed Kamil Mohammed, the Deputy National Imam of Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaah (ASWAJ), IBF, in the short, medium, and long term, will benefit the nation as a whole.

In his Eidul Fitr sermon delivered at the forecourt of Parliament on March 30, 2025, he also praised the John Dramani Mahama administration for reducing Hajj fares, as announced weeks earlier.

“We express our gratitude for the reduction in Hajj fares, making it easier for many of our brothers and sisters to fulfill this sacred pillar of Islam. We also pray that the government continues its efforts toward the introduction of Islamic Banking and Finance in Ghana, a step that will greatly benefit the entire nation,” he said.

ASWAJ and other groups observed the post-Ramadan congregational prayers on March 30, after 29 days of fasting. The event was attended by hundreds of adherents, with Deputy Tourism Minister Yussif Jajah representing the government.

IBF has been a key component of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s Resetting Ghana manifesto. Since taking office, President Mahama has stressed his commitment on two occasions to ensuring that processes are put in place to actualize it.

A group that has been leading the IBF advocacy in Ghana is the Islamic Finance Research Institute of Ghana (IFRIG), which, since 2020, has undertaken a series of measures to deepen awareness, acceptance, and implementation of IBF in the shortest possible time.

Members of IFRIG were participants at the National Economic Forum (NEF) convened by the government to undertake a resetting process for the economy, years after a slump that forced the government to enter into an International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme.

AM/MA

Military moved-in to restore calm at Yamfo  

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Armed military personnel moved-in on Friday to restore calm at Yamfo in the Tano North Municipality of the Ahafo Region.

However, the security operatives were left with no other option than to fire intermittent warning shots to disperse the irate youth who had besieged the Yamfo police station.

The uproar erupted in the mining town, when the angry youth besieged the police station and attempted to set the station ablaze, but timely arrival of the military saved the situation.

During a visit to the town around 1600 hours, the Ghana News Agency (GNA) noticed that calm had returned to the town, there were still some military personnel around.

The GNA gathered from the residents that a disturbance erupted when the local police personnel swooped an Indian hemp smoking and peddling joint in the area, arrested and allegedly subjected a suspect (young man) into severe beatings.

The suspect later passed on at the Yamfo Health Center, a resident, Adams Ibrahim, a lotto agent told the GNA, saying upon hearing the information about the death, the irate youth mobilised themselves and besieged the premises of the police station.

Some health workers on duty at the Health Center declined to comment on the matter.

At the time of filing this report, the GNA learnt that the military had moved away the police personnel on duty from the Yamfo Police station.

Source: GNA

Watch as residents discover cables, electrical materials at a scrap yard

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The video shows several pieces of equipment scattered on the ground and others loaded in the vehicle The video shows several pieces of equipment scattered on the ground and others loaded in the vehicle

Several electric cables and other electrical materials, suspected to be part of the Electricity Company of Ghana’s (ECG) missing containers, have been discovered at a scrap yard near the Korle Lagoon in Accra.

In viral videos circulating online, some locals are seen stumbling upon a stash of ECG cables and electric poles, with some of the items packed in the bucket of a KIA truck believed to be in transit to an undisclosed location.

The video shows several pieces of equipment scattered on the ground and others loaded in the vehicle.

This discovery comes amidst ongoing investigations into the whereabouts of over 1,300 missing containers belonging to ECG at the port.

The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, recently disclosed that 40 of the missing containers have been traced to a warehouse owned by a Chinese national at Kpone, near Tema. So far, over ten individuals have been arrested in connection with the case.

AM/KA

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:

TDC boss opens up on corruption he has uncovered

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Managing Director of TDC, Courage Kafui Nunekpeku Managing Director of TDC, Courage Kafui Nunekpeku

The Managing Director of Tema Development Company Limited (TDC) Ghana Limited, Courage Kafui Nunekpeku, has announced that he has formally requested the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to investigate operations within the company.

According to a report by the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Nunekpeku made this announcement during a staff durbar last week, where he briefed employees on the current state of TDC.

He stated that the decision to involve EOCO was prompted by shocking acts of corruption he uncovered across various departments after conducting a thorough assessment of the company’s operations.

One such case, he noted, involved the award of $1 million worth of IT contracts with no tangible results to show for them.

“In the few weeks I’ve been in office, some of the things I have seen will blow your mind. Because I come from the private sector, I scrutinise everything. You have to examine invoices before even forwarding them for approval,” he said.

“In the coming days, there are going to be a lot of investigations. This morning, I wrote two letters to EOCO to look into issues in the IT department. IT contracts were awarded for one million dollars, and we don’t have access to the software. So EOCO will intervene.”

Nunekpeku also revealed that the company paid GH¢45,000 for the washing of curtains in a former Managing Director’s residence, an expense he described as outrageous.

“Why not buy a washing machine for GH¢15,000 and detergent for GH¢1,000 to clean the curtains ourselves and reuse the machine?” he suggested.

He further announced that the company would soon begin extensive property and land audits to verify initial findings regarding TDC-owned lands.

In a bold call to action, the Managing Director urged staff with information, or those who may have been involved in underhand dealings over the years, to voluntarily come forward with relevant details.

He warned that the era of corruption, invoice falsification, and fraudulent activities at TDC must end.

“If you don’t come forward and we discover your involvement through investigations, I won’t accept any pleas regardless of your position or years of service, because you have been given the opportunity today,” he cautioned.

In a shift from previous practices, Nunekpeku also announced that the company would not be purchasing new vehicles for management staff. Instead, TDC will invest in Urvan buses, a backhoe, a dumper, and a tipper truck, which are assets he believes are more essential for improving the company’s operations.

BAI/MA

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‘We were the better side’- Black Queens coach after Senegal win

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The Black Queens will face the Teranga Lioness again on Wednesday The Black Queens will face the Teranga Lioness again on Wednesday

Black Queens Head Coach Kim Lars insists his side were the better team in their 1-0 friendly win over Senegal on Saturday, April 5, 2025.

The Swede guided his team to defeat the Teranga Lionesses in Dakar in a preparatory match for this July’s TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Evelyn Badu’s 24th-minute header separated the two sides, and the visitors had to seal the victory the hard way after Anasthesia Achiaa was sent off in the 63rd minute.

In his post-game speech, Lars said: “Of course, this is professional football, and you are always happy when you win. For us, one of the most important things was to win the game.

“We knew before the game that it would be a tough one for us, a tough away game. We knew that Senegal could be physical. I felt the start was pretty good. I would say the first 30 minutes were solid, and we also scored a beautiful goal, exactly how we want to play—with the perfect cross. Evelyn came from the number 10 position and scored with a great header, something she started the game well with.

“I felt that at the end of the first half, we were starting to fall into the physical style of play, with more stops, more of the Senegalese way of playing. So, we talked at halftime about needing to play football on the ground, play a little faster again, but we didn’t.

“Then early in the second half, we got the red card, and from that moment, it was a completely different game.”

The Black Queens will face the Teranga Lionesses again on Wednesday in a reverse fixture to be played in Dakar.

Ghana is currently in Senegal for a nine-day training camp.

Why Di Asa’s Beloved MC Traded the Stage for the Sea.

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For many fans of Atinka TV’s popular plus-size dance reality show, Di Asa, the infectious energy and vibrant stage presence of its early host, Andrew Kofi Duodo, affectionately known as Judge Worwor, were as integral to the show’s success as the talented contestants themselves. His ability to connect with the audience through his humor, often peppered with his native Fante dialect, made him a household name and almost synonymous with the Di Asa experience. His hiatus from the show after its third season came as a sudden and disappointing surprise to his numerous admirers.

Years later, the charismatic MC and media personality has finally shed light on the mystery surrounding his departure, revealing a rather unexpected career pivot. In a recent interview, Judge Worwor resurfaced, reflecting on his impactful yet brief stint in the limelight and explaining his decision to step away from the Di Asa stage.

According to Judge Worwor, the decision to leave the show was not due to any form of dismissal, as some might have speculated. Instead, it was a pragmatic choice driven by the pursuit of better economic opportunities. He revealed that he was presented with an offer to work as a storekeeper for a prestigious international cruise line, a prospect that ultimately outweighed the financial rewards of continuing as Di Asa’s MC.

Speaking candidly on Kwaku Manu’s “Aggressive Interview” show, Judge Worwor recounted how he was initially brought on board the Di Asa program. He clarified that his departure coincided with the third season, stating, “I hosted the third season. That’s the same season I travelled. I had to go hustle a bit because the salary was little and because I wasn’t working for the station, I couldn’t compare myself to the others.” This honest admission highlights the often-unseen realities behind the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry, where even popular figures might need to seek more financially stable avenues.

When questioned about the possibility of a return to the show that catapulted him to fame, Judge Worwor expressed that the interest was indeed there. However, his current commitment as a storekeeper on the Carnival Cruise shipping line makes a comeback virtually impossible. This revelation underscores the significant shift in his career trajectory, from captivating television audiences in Ghana to navigating the demands of international maritime work.

Judge Worwor’s story serves as a compelling reminder that life often takes unexpected turns. While his absence was deeply felt by Di Asa enthusiasts, his decision to prioritize financial stability and explore new horizons is understandable. Although fans may continue to reminisce about his infectious laughter and unique hosting style, Judge Worwor’s journey from the vibrant Di Asa stage to the vast expanse of the sea is a testament to his adaptability and pursuit of a better future. His brief but memorable reign as the face of Di Asa will undoubtedly remain a cherished chapter in the show’s history, even as he charts a new course in his career.

Source: https://yen.com.gh/entertainment/280903-di-asa-mc-judge-worwor-resurfaces-recounts-working-a-ship-staff-survive/

Allowances and Benefits Enjoyed by Ghanaian MPs and Ministers Apart from Their High Salaries

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In Ghana, Members of Parliament (MPs) and Ministers receive substantial allowances and benefits in addition to their monthly salaries. These perks are often a topic of debate, given the country’s economic challenges and the disparity in earnings between politicians and the average citizen.

1. Duty and Responsibility Allowances

MPs and Ministers receive allowances for the responsibilities they undertake. These include committee sittings, leadership roles, and special assignments. Ministers, especially Cabinet Ministers, get higher allowances due to their executive duties.

2. Ex-Gratia Payments

At the end of every four-year term, MPs and Ministers receive ex-gratia payments. This lump sum is meant as compensation for their service and can amount to several hundred thousand Ghanaian cedis.

3. Housing and Accommodation Benefits

Many MPs and Ministers are provided with official residences or receive accommodation allowances to cover their housing needs. Government officials often live in state-provided residences in prime locations.

4. Vehicle Allowances and Fuel Support

MPs and Ministers receive car loans or official vehicles to facilitate their work. Additionally, they are given fuel allowances or fuel coupons to support their transport needs.

5. Travel and Per Diem Allowances

Government officials frequently travel for official duties both locally and internationally. They receive per diem allowances to cover expenses such as lodging, meals, and incidentals while on these trips.

6. Medical Benefits

MPs and Ministers, along with their immediate families, enjoy comprehensive medical care, often at state expense. Some even receive treatment abroad for critical medical conditions.

7. Security Protection

For security reasons, MPs and Ministers are entitled to police escorts or personal security personnel, particularly high-ranking officials such as Cabinet Ministers and the Speaker of Parliament.

8. Sitting and Committee Allowances

MPs receive additional allowances for attending parliamentary sessions and committee meetings. These incentives encourage active participation in legislative affairs.

9. Pension and Retirement Packages

After serving in office, MPs and Ministers receive generous retirement benefits, including pensions, ex-gratia, and other forms of gratuity.

While these allowances and benefits are meant to facilitate the effective performance of their duties, many Ghanaians argue that the packages are excessive, considering the country’s economic constraints. Calls for reforms and greater transparency in the remuneration of public officials remain a pressing issue in Ghana’s political discourse.

I’ve written an article outlining the various allowances and benefits Ghanaian MPs and Ministers receive apart from their salaries. Let me know if you need any modifications or additional details.

Source: ghanaiansider.net