Freddie Blay has expressed his strong concerns about the potential global backlash Ghana could face if the controversial LGBTQ+ bill is passed.
During an interview on GHOne TV’s Hard Talk, the former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) shared that international development partners have already made it clear that Ghana’s move to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities could lead to serious consequences, including sanctions and the withdrawal of financial assistance.
He told the host, “Our development partners and co have indicated clearly that they think it is an abuse of human rights, and for that reason, if you go ahead and assent to it, they may apply certain sanctions and withdraw some assistance.”
Blay didn’t shy away from acknowledging the gravity of these concerns, adding, “I take it very seriously.”
The LGBTQ+ bill has become one of the most debated topics in Ghanaian politics, with supporters emphasizing the importance of preserving the country’s cultural and moral values.
On the other hand, critics of the bill argue that it could undermine Ghana’s international relationships and lead to significant diplomatic and economic setbacks.
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Rocky55 Blog of Friday, 3 January 2025
Source: Isaac Appiah
In order to demonstrate its preparedness to properly oversee legislative activities during the next session, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has formally declared its leadership team for the 9th Parliament. The party’s National Council made the declaration in order to guarantee a coordinated approach to legislative duties, according to a report published by CitiNewsRoom on Thursday, January 2, 2025. In order to guide the party’s program in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin has been appointed as the Minority Leader. Patricia Apiagyei, the Deputy Minority Leader, is standing by him. Frank Annoh-Dompreh has been appointed Chief Whip, and David Opoku and Habib Iddrisu will be the First and Second Deputy Minority Whips, respectively.
The NPP intends to meet with its Members of Parliament-elect to discuss their tasks and responsibilities before to the start of the 9th Parliament. The party’s dedication to promoting unity and successfully tackling legislative issues in the upcoming parliamentary session is reflected in this leadership lineup. In order to ensure that the party’s voice is adequately represented in parliamentary discussions and decisions, the recently constituted team is expected to demonstrate strong leadership in navigating the legislative environment.
Accra, Jan 3 A fire broke out at a big market located in the central business district of Accra, Ghana’s capital.
The fire, which broke out in the early hours of Thursday and erupted overnight, left widespread destruction, with traders scrambling to salvage their goods as the flames rapidly spread.
Eyewitnesses told local media that the fire broke out suddenly, with voices of people who first saw it screaming to draw attention to the inferno that ravaged numerous shops within the market, Xinhua news agency reported.
The fire destroyed large portions of the Kantamanto Market, home to secondhand clothing, building materials, chemicals, paint, and furniture, among other things. Desperate traders were seen wailing at the loss of their wares while the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) tried to douse the flames.
Despite deploying at least 13 fire tenders, the GNFS still had difficulty dealing with the fast-spreading blaze with its intense ferocity, which consumed many structures within hours.
At a stage, residents joined in the fight with buckets and gallons of water and basic tools to augment the efforts by the GNFS in slowing down the spread of the fire.
“Per our evaluation, the fire has destroyed over 100 stores because many of them were closely situated by each other. So, once the fire catches one, the spread becomes easier,” Alex King Nartey, a GNFS spokesperson, said.
Nartey explained that the proximity of the shops made it easier for the fire to spread faster, adding that the fire personnel had to make a quick decision to separate nearby structures from those already consumed by the fire to prevent the fire from spreading further.
He said the task became more daunting since there was no working fire hydrant in the market area, compelling the firefighters to leave the scene intermittently to replenish.
“But it is good that we have salvaged more shops than those the fire destroyed. Looking at the other buildings, we have been able to salvage them from the fire,” the GNFS spokesman said, adding that investigations have been launched into the cause of the fire.
The Kantamanto Market, one of the largest in the country, serves as the source of livelihood for thousands of families and the source of wealth for parts of the business community.
Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
Charlotte Osei is a trisector expert bringing high expertise and accomplishments from the public, private and not-for-profit sectors in Ghana and beyond.
She is a Ghanaian lawyer with 30 years’ experience, which has been deployed in the business law space, on the boards of international not-for-profits and in the elections sphere. Charlotte has shattered many glass ceilings in her professional life.
She was the first female Chair of Ghana’s National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), an independent constitutional commission in Ghana charged to promote active citizenship, civic education and sustain Ghana’s democracy. Under her leadership, the NCCE witnessed its most significant transformations in its history.
Again, she was the first female Chair of Ghana’s Electoral Commission and within three years, presided over a national local government election, parliamentary by-elections and Ghana’s globally acclaimed 2016 presidential and parliamentary elections.
She was also the first woman to assume the role of the President of the African Association of Election Authorities, the first woman to be appointed as the Vice Chairperson of the Executive Board of the African Capacity Building Foundation headquartered in Zimbabwe.
Charlotte was the first Ghanaian and first African female to be appointed by the United Nations and the President of Afghanistan in 2019 as an International Elections Commissioner to the Electoral Complaints Commission of Afghanistan and mandated to build the capacity of the country’s electoral body to manage and resolve its elections related disputes.
In 2020, Charlotte was appointed as the leader of the ECOWAS technical mission to Liberia to clean up the country’s voters’ roll ahead of December 2020 senatorial elections. She was also the Deputy Head of the ECOWAS fact finding mission to Nigeria ahead of the 2019 general elections, and later as the Technical Expert (Legal) to the ECOWAS Long Term Observer Mission to the 2019 Nigerian general elections.
Charlotte is the Founder and Managing Consultant of Cyrus Law, a boutique business law firm focused on family wealth and legacy management, family business advisory, personal and business succession as well as corporate and commercial transactions. She is also currently a non-executive director of the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA).
Charlotte is a graduate of Queen’s University, Ontario Canada with a Master of Laws degree (LLM). She holds a second Master’s degree in Business Leadership (MBL) from the University of South Africa, Pretoria, a Bachelor of Laws degree (LLB) from the University of Ghana Legon, and a Qualifying Certificate of Law (QCL) from the Ghana School of Law. She has been enrolled in Ghana as a Barrister & Solicitor of the Supreme Court since 1994.
Can you share your journey to becoming a trisector expert? What motivated you to transition between the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors?
I actually did not set out specifically to become an expert in the three sectors. Like most new lawyers, I started practice as a young lawyer at a private law firm in Accra that was focused on corporate and commercial law. This was where I got my grounding in corporate and transactional law practice. Then I moved into banking and regulatory work, then left to set up and manage my own law firm and eventually over time, got invited to serve on the boards of international not-for-profit institutions. The call to public service came in October 2011 when I was appointed by President John Mills to chair Ghana’s National Commission for Civic Education and then I was appointed to Ghana’s Electoral Commission in 2015 by President John Mahama. So, none of my journey was by design or planning, the journey was God-led.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as the first female Chair of both the National Commission for Civic Education and the Electoral Commission of Ghana, and how did you overcome them?
Let me first start by saying that both institutions are a lot similar. They are both
independent constitutional bodies with staff and offices in all the administrative districts of the country. Since their creation, they were always led and run by men. So, the first challenge I faced at both institutions was being a woman. Women, in my view, usually lead differently and it was a bit of a challenge getting staff and senior management (most of them older than me at the time) to understand and appreciate how women lead.
The transition from the seemingly entrenched culture of male leadership to acceptance of female leadership was not an easy task. As you may be well aware, that is not only a Ghanaian or African thing. Breaking the glass ceiling does not happen easily. When you break glass, you’re likely to come away with some cuts. There were many cuts, but we persisted. So, I was prepared to embrace the challenge, and focused exclusively on getting the job done without paying attention to the distractions that came from male and older colleagues.
Another challenge I faced was being seen as an “outsider” coming in from the private sector. Some of my colleagues who had been with the respective institutions for much longer struggled to come to terms with my appointment as the head of the respective institutions. I was considered an ‘outsider’ and ‘too young’ to be the leader.
A third challenge was the deep mistrust of some of the political stakeholders in the institution and this specifically refers to the electoral commission. Many political stakeholders felt it was not a job for a woman. My appointment also came on the heels of a very hotly contested presidential election in 2012, which led to an election petition at the Supreme Court that held the nation to ransom for eight months until a Supreme Court decision later in 2013. So, the 2016 election was a tense election even before it started and my appointment in 2015 was within this context with a high level of mistrust for the commission in the public space.
So, I faced two distinct challenges, quickly rebuilding public trust in the electoral commission and proving my mettle as a woman. For me, the best defence to mistrust, cyinicism and unbridalled criticism is performance. Just deliver on your mandate, and that was my focus. I was guided by the principles stated by one of my favourite authors, Don Miguel Ruiz in his book “The Four Agreements.” I never took anything personal. I never operated based on assumptions. I always tried to be impeccable with my words, and I made sure I always did my best, on a daily basis.
My first opportunity to deliver on my mandate was the 2015 district assembly election which was a few weeks after my appointment and was like a dress rehearsal for the 2016 presidential and parliamentary elections. That election was near flawless and praised by all. When 2016 came, we replicated the 2015 success by delivering what was described by many international observers as “one of the world’s best elections ever.”
During your tenure with the electoral commission, what specific changes or innovations did you implement that you believe had the most significant impact on Ghana’s electoral process?
The first focus was reforming the institution itself. Soon after taking over, I realised the need for a new strategic direction. So, with support from partners like the UNDP, we put together a five year strategic plan that aimed at transforming the commission into a world class election management body which is trusted by all of its key stakeholders. We also developed and rolled out a new corporate identity for the institution and we repositioned the commission’s brand. We implemented 27 electoral reforms that had been agreed with the political parties and were geared towards increasing the levels of transparency in the electoral process. We also acquired a new multi-storey corporate headquarters and strengthened the commission’s base by building 100 modern district offices across the country. More importantly, we also opened up the commission to become more transparent and accessible to the public with a new communications policy, a well-trained communications team, increased engagements with different key stakeholders, a weekly TV show titled “Ask The EC” for public education on the electoral process, and for the first time, live television access to the “Strongroom” i.e. the national collation centre for presidential election results reception, verification and collation from the 275 constituencies. The outcome of these initiatives was increase in public confidence from 37% in 2015 (Afro barometer survey) to 83% of Ghanaians believing that the 2016 polls would be “completely free and fair or “free and fair with minor problems” and 77 % confident that the “Electoral Commission would perform its duties as a neutral body guided by the Law” (CDD survey). The outcome of all the initiatives was the very successful 2016 presidential and parliamentary elections in Ghana. We had no technological failures and no deaths or violence, these were my two key prayers. The elections led to a peaceful transition of power from the sitting president to the opposition party.
How did your role as an International Elections Commissioner in Afghanistan differ from your experiences in Ghana? What were the key lessons you learnt from that experience?
While my role in Ghana was to superintend over all functions of the election management body, in Afghanistan, I was more like a consulting commissioner to guide and support my Afghan colleagues. So, I could advise and guide them, but the ultimate decisions and responsibilities rested on the Afghan commissioners.
My key lessons were the need to appreciate cultural differences and respect for the way other cultures and systems operate. You cannot guide or lead a people until you respect their cultural practices and get to understand their ways. That way, your advice and guidance is well grounded within the context you’re operating in. Secondly, there is usually more than one way. The way you know or assume to be right, may not always work or be the right way depending on the context. So, the appreciation of and respect for cultural differences is key to succeeding in a different environment.
In your opinion, what are the most important aspects of civic education that are often overlooked in democratic societies?
The importance of educating people on values. If we do not inculcate the right values, and do that early in life in our societies, we are doomed to fail. So, we must start early and we must define our national values and live up to those values and national decisions must reflect the national values. Without the ‘compass’ and defined values that we all agree on and live by, we are doomed to stray and fail as a society. That in my view, is a key challenge facing Africa.
So, for instance, we preach democracy and rule of law, yet in our everyday lives, we see different standards of justice for the poor and the rich, and between those in government and those in opposition. That’s not how a democracy functions. Civil and human rights must be upheld for both poor and rich, and for those in power and those not in power.
Given your experience in organising elections, what do you think are the biggest threats to the integrity of elections today, both in Ghana and globally?
I think the first threat is politics without principles. There is such a high mistrust of politicians because we see clearly that they are willing and able to do anything to win elections, and most of them seem unable to take a principled position. Also, their supporters and paid crowd will support and justify anything they do and say. The rest of us just watch them, silent but not believing most of what they say. We are unable to trust our leaders. That is a big problem.
Second, the unbridled monetisation of our politics and electoral campaigns is a huge problem. In most of Africa, vote buying and sharing of goodies to the electorate has come to be accepted as a part of our politics. This is dangerous to the sustainability of our democracies and is also fuelled by illicit financial inflows into Africa. It also creates a vicious and unending cycle of corruption in our politics.
Politicisation of the election management body by the recruitment and appointment of political party activists and sympathisers into key positions is also a threat to democracy. This breeds mistrust, exposes the institution to political bias in favour of one political party over the other, and creates the risk of manipulation of election results.
Finally, lack of transparency and inclusiveness on the part of the election management body is also a threat to the integrity of the electoral process. An electoral management body must open its doors to the public, engage frequently and purposefully, and as much as possible, involve all stakeholders in its decision-making. These actions work to ensure a high level of public trust and confidence in its activities and a stronger electoral process.
As a pioneer in various leadership positions, what advice would you give to women aspiring to enter leadership roles in sectors where they have been historically underrepresented?
Women need to focus on building capacity. We need to prepare for the opportunities that will come by increasing your skills and knowledge base. This gives us the confidence to take on the opportunities when they come. We need to be courageous. We need to learn to ignore the distractions and the labels of society. So, capacity, confidence and courage. And to these three, add prayer. If there is a woman to pray, there is a God to answer.
As the Founder and Lead Consultant at Cyrus Law, what are your primary focus areas, and what trends do you see shaping family wealth and legacy management in Africa?
We started as a boutique corporate and commercial law focused firm. We have recently decided to pivot into advising and supporting family-owned businesses and wealth and legacy management. We believe that the future of Africa lies in growing and scaling up our small businesses which are typically family owned. Family businesses need specialised skills to survive and thrive beyond the generation of founders and to protect and preserve wealth and family businesses over many generations. Our work typically involves the deployment of tools and strategies to set-up, structure, secure and sustain the family wealth, business and legacy.
African family businesses are no different from family businesses the world over. They must manage transitions from the founder generation to the inheritors, they must manage difficult and uncertain economic climes and the complex family dynamics within each of our families. These issues will continue to challenge the sustainability of family businesses across Africa.
From your legal background, what are the key elements of effective corporate governance that businesses should prioritise?
I think the key issue is the effective separation of the owner/founder of a business from the business itself. When the business is structured in a way that ensures that the owner is unable to dip her hands into the company kitty as and when she pleases and decisions are not all taken by one person, the business has a higher chance of surviving. This is the essence of corporate governance and the key elements would be:
i. Truly independent and experienced board of directors appointed in a transparent manner.
ii. Truly independent auditor.
iii. A system of accountability of officers for their stewardship.
iv. Ethics training for directors.
v. An effective system of conflict of interest disclosures.
Who or what has been your greatest source of inspiration throughout your career, and how has that influenced the way you lead?
I would not say I have one person who has been a source of inspiration throughout my career. I have learnt many lessons from the successes of others and even more lessons from their failures. I firmly believe that there is so much to learn and lots of guidance we can get from the failures of others. The key thing for me is to remain curious and always learning. No one is too big to learn and no one is too small to teach. We must keep learning and preserve our sense of awe. Just knowing that, influences how I lead. I remain teachable and I always try to listen and learn.
How have you managed to balance your demanding professional life with personal commitments, especially given your extensive roles in various organisations?
It requires the ability to plan daily and keep track of time and manage competing demands effectively. Apart from that, it requires a team of very competent, loyal and reliable people to delegate tasks to without worrying about their ability to perform. And I am very blessed to have such people around me. But above all, I try to be a hands-on person. So I provide speedy feedback to my team on tasks they perform for me. I rely heavily on God and my family. I try to seek God’s direction in every step I take (sometimes I forget, for shame) But my family deserves commendation. They have been my strongest pillar of support. And by family, I don’t mean just blood family. I have phenomenal friends who have become family after 30, 40, 50 years of friendship.
What are your aspirations for the future, both in terms of your legal practice and your contributions to democracy and governance in Africa?
I expect my firm to become the go-to-firm for family-owned businesses in Africa for protecting and preserving their wealth, without getting worried about the survival of their legacy beyond their generation. In terms of democracy, I believe there is still a lot of work to be done to ensure elections deliver development to the citizenry. So, I will spend more time providing technical support to election management bodies on the continent to deliver on their mandate, and training of electoral commissioners across Africa, to the best of my ability.
How do you see your role in mentoring the next generation of leaders and legal professionals?
I guide and support many young professionals, younger women and business owners in Ghana through several mentoring platforms which I manage. I intend to continue this. I may also return to lecturing at the university on a part time basis- something I did over 20 years ago. I am seriously considering returning to the lecture room.
How has your traditional title as Safohen of the Nkum Asafo company of Cape Coast, Ghana influenced your perspective as a leader in the modern professional world?
That is still a learning curve for me but I am quickly appreciating the influence of traditional leadership on our values as a people and how that, again, influences how we engage with each other and shapes our world view. It’s been a very, very interesting experience for me so far and I am enjoying being deeply embedded in my culture and identity. I am also getting a lot of fulfillment from being able to work with my chiefs and my Nkum Asafo company to develop Cape Coast and see how I can support the improvement of the lives of my people and preserve the rich cultural and historical legacy of Cape Coast.
How do you think traditional values and modern governance can coexist and strengthen each other in African societies?
My view is that modern governance must be guided by traditional values otherwise it creates a disconnect. You cannot effectively govern a group of people if you do not understand, appreciate and ensure that your governance respects and accommodates their deeply held beliefs and values. Consequently, modern governance must coexist with our traditional African values or it becomes ineffective.
What did it mean for you to be nominated as one of the three finalists for the Chatham House Award in 2017, and how has it shaped your approach to leadership since then?
It was absolutely unexpected and humbling. Bearing in mind I was in the job for less than two years and I had delivered only one district level election and one general elections for president and members of parliament. I never expected that at all. But it taught me that we must approach our work with diligence and excellence. Someone is always watching. That has stayed with until this day.
How do awards like the ‘Woman of Courage Award from the US government’ impact your view of your work and your contributions to society?
I have learnt that one should never let the negativity thrown at you impact the quality of the work you do. Do your work to the best of your ability and do what is right no matter how difficult it is.
What is your take on the recently concluded elections in Ghana?
After 32 years of Ghana’s fourth republic, and eight different presidential and parliamentary elections, we should be a model for the world when it comes to elections in Africa. Unfortunately, developments in the last two major elections seem to suggest that we have drifted downhill rather than continuing our climb upwards. Eight Ghanaians were killed in electoral violence in 2020. And in 2024, reports are that six Ghanaians were killed in the recent election. That for me is worrying. There is no reason for a single Ghanaian’s life to be lost in the course of an election. The high level of mistrust of our election management body and state institutions also requires careful consideration and serious work towards fixing that. It is not healthy for our democracy. These are my top of mind concerns. But resilient as we are, I am hopeful that Ghana will rise above this and continue once again on the path of progress in future elections. We have witnessed another peaceful transition from one party to another with a graceful concession, same as we witnessed in 2016. That is remarkable and our political leaders and the Ghanaian electorate deserve commendation.
Breaking the glass ceiling does not happen easily. When you break glass, you’re likely to come away with some cuts
Civil and human rights must be upheld for both poor and rich, and for those in power and those not in power
Lack of transparency and inclusiveness on the part of the election management body is also a threat to the integrity of the electoral process
No one is too big to learn and no one is too small to teach
Ghana Premier League giants Asante Kotoko are ramping up preparations for their crucial Week 16 fixture against Medeama Sporting Club in the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season.
The Porcupine Warriors are set to face a stern test this Sunday, January 5, as they take on the defending CAF Champions League winners, Medeama SC.
Currently one of the league’s most in-form teams, Asante Kotoko have won four of their last five matches, losing only once. This impressive run has reignited their title ambitions as they aim to close the gap on league leaders Heart of Lions.
Kotoko head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum oversaw an intense training session on Thursday, January 2, with further drills planned for Friday and Saturday to fine-tune tactics and ensure the players are fully prepared for the challenge ahead.
Medeama, known for their disciplined approach and strong defense, pose a formidable threat. However, Kotoko will be looking to capitalize on their momentum to secure a vital win and strengthen their push for the title.
The highly anticipated encounter will take place at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, where fans are expected to turn out in numbers to rally behind the Porcupine Warriors.
Pelu Awofeso, a renowned Nigerian travel journalist, is set to unveil a documentary showcasing the remarkable life and achievements of Samuel Ajayi Crowther, a pioneering bishop and Yoruba linguist.
The first episode titled ‘Mission to Osoogun’ will be previewed on January 17, 2025.
Old Mawuli Students Union (OMSU 2004) at the donation event
In a heartwarming display of compassion and generosity, the 2004 year group of the Old Mawuli Students Union (OMSU 2004) has donated essential food items and clothing to the Ho Leprosarium, a rehabilitation center for persons affected by leprosy.
The donation, which included bags of maize, rice, beans, gari, sugar as well as clothing and toiletries, aims to alleviate the daily challenges faced by the residents of the leprosarium.
This charitable act is part of the group’s 20th-anniversary celebrations, demonstrating their commitment to giving back to society.
According to the President of the OMSU 2004 year group, Eli Ampim, “As we mark this significant milestone, we wanted to share our blessings with those in need.
The Ho Leprosarium is a symbol of hope and resilience, and we are honored to be able to contribute to the well-being of its residents.”
The donation was received by the Administrator of the Ho Leprosarium, Mr. Nelson Atito who expressed deep gratitude to the OMSU 2004 year group.
“We are thankful for this generous donation, which will go a long way in supporting the daily needs of our residents. Your kindness is a testament to the impact that individuals and groups can have on their communities.”
He also acknowledged that this is the second visit by the year group in a decade as a similar gesture was received in October 2014.
The OMSU 2004 year group’s visit to the Ho Leprosarium was marked by a sense of camaraderie and shared humanity. Members of the group interacted with the residents, listening to their stories and experiences, and offering words of encouragement and support.
This charitable gesture by the OMSU 2004 year group serves as a shining example of the positive impact that alumni can have on their communities.
As they celebrate their 20th anniversary, their selfless act will have a lasting impact on the lives of the residents of the Ho Leprosarium.
“We are delighted with the outcome and decision of the tribunal, which affirms our assessment and removes a material overhang from our business,” said Tullow Chief Executive Officer, Rahul Dhir.
“We have continuously had confidence in the sanctity of our petroleum agreements and the dispute resolution process, which has now brought certainty to all parties.
“I look forward to constructive discussions with the Government of Ghana to resolve the remaining claims so that our collective focus remains on maximising value from the Jubilee and TEN fields.”
Ghana Premier League giants Accra Hearts of Oak are reportedly nearing the signing of former Ghana international Mubarak Wakaso on a short-term deal, according to GHANAsoccernet.com.
The 34-year-old midfielder is expected to join the Phobians as they strengthen their squad for the second half of the ongoing season.
Renowned for his tenacity and exceptional passing range, Wakaso has been a free agent since leaving Chinese Super League side Shenzhen FC in January 2024.
He briefly returned to Shenzhen in mid-2023 after a loan stint with Belgian side KAS Eupen, where he made 10 appearances in all competitions.
Wakaso boasts an impressive résumé, having played for several top European clubs, including Villarreal, Espanyol, Celtic FC, and Deportivo Alaves.
His wealth of experience is anticipated to bring both quality and leadership to Hearts of Oak as they push for league success.
Internationally, Wakaso has been a key figure for the Black Stars, earning 70 caps and scoring 13 goals since his debut on October 13, 2012.
He has represented Ghana in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and the 2014 FIFA World Cup, further underscoring his pedigree.
Should the deal be finalized, Wakaso’s addition could prove pivotal for Hearts as they aim to compete for the league title and secure a strong finish this season.
This blog is managed by the content creator and not GhanaWeb, its affiliates, or employees. Advertising on this blog requires a minimum of GH₵50 a week. Contact the blog owner with any queries.
Zeqblog Blog of Thursday, 2 January 2025
Source: Okine Isaac
Wesley Girls’ High School’s first Ghanaian non-missionary headmistress, Dr. Rosina Acheampong, passed away. On January 1, 2025, she passed away at the age of 85. In her 30 years of service to the esteemed institution, Dr. Acheampong served as headmistress for 16 of those years, upholding the rigorous academic and disciplinary standards for which the school is renowned.
Former student Dr. Esi Ansah conveyed the tragic news of Dr. Acheampong’s death on social media in a memorial, lovingly mentioning that her loved ones called her “Archie.” After serving as assistant headmistress for three years, Dr. Acheampong’s legacy at Wesley Girls began. After the former headmistress, Mrs. Howarth, retired in 1981, she became the first Ghanaian headmistress. Up until her retirement, her leadership played a crucial role in upholding the school’s esteemed reputation.
As the Ghana Education Service’s first female deputy director-general, Dr. Acheampong also created history during her tenure. Many alumni have positive memories of her discipline and leadership, and her contributions to education have had a long-lasting effect.
The government has earmarked GHS 2.34 billion for arrears clearance in the 2025 mini-budget.
The allocation is to address outstanding financial obligations and restore confidence among contractors, suppliers, trainees and other stakeholder groups owed by the state.
In addition, GHS 20.69 billion has been budgeted as expenditure on interest payments for the first quarter of 2025.
The amount includes payments to the Energy Sector Levy Account (ESLA) and Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
The substantial interest payment highlights the current debt structure and underscores the government’s obligation to meet commitments to both domestic and external creditors during the period under review.
Ghana’s Parliament has given its approval to the 2025 Mini-Budget, amounting to GHS 68.13 billion, following extensive discussions between the Finance Committee and the Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam.
The approved budget is intended to fund government activities for the first quarter of 2025, ahead of a comprehensive budget to be presented by the incoming Mahama administration.
Projected total revenue and grants for the three-month period are set at GHS 42.54 billion, representing 3.5% of GDP.
The expenditure plan was presented by the Finance Minister on January 2, 2025, as part of the Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation measure.
In adherence to constitutional requirements, the proposal was reviewed by the Joint Committee on Budget and Finance before receiving parliamentary endorsement.
The approval process was not without controversy, as minority members accused the Finance Minister of deliberately delaying the budget presentation.
However, the majority dismissed these claims, stressing the importance of the mini-budget in ensuring uninterrupted government operations during the transition period.
With the passage of this budget, attention now shifts to its implementation as the Mahama administration prepares to take office.
Stakeholders are eager to see how the allocated funds will be managed to address national priorities and ensure a seamless transition in governance.
Expenditure Highlights
Compensation of Employees –GHS 16,462,828,490
Use of Goods and Services – GHS 3,123,221,785
Interest Payment – GHS, 20,691,523,500
Subsidies – GHS 45,507,080
Grants to Other Government Units – GHS 9,193,773,211
Social Benefits – GHS 234,703,983
Other Expenditure GHS 9,463,817,451
Capital Expenditure – GHS 5,293,248,499
TOTAL EXPENDITURE – GHS 64,508,623,999
Arrears Clearance – GHS 2,345,505,925
Amortisation – GHS 1,280,544,603
EXPENDITURE IN ADVANCE OF APPROPRIATION – GHS 68,134,674,527
Bole, a bustling town in the Savannah Region, is grappling with a severe fuel shortage, leaving residents frustrated and seeking urgent intervention.
The crisis, which has been brewing for weeks, has reached a boiling point, with over five filling stations in the area shut down due to lack of fuel.
The fuel shortage has disrupted transportation and daily activities, affecting the livelihoods of residents who rely heavily on motorcycles for transportation.
The Amdaway Filling Station, located on the Bole-Wa highway, is currently the only operational station in the area, and it’s struggling to meet the overwhelming demand.
Long queues of over 50 riders and drivers waiting for hours to refuel have become a common sight at the Amdaway Filling Station.
Motorcycles, the primary mode of transport in Bole, have been particularly affected, with many residents forced to purchase petrol in gallons for storage or travel over 18 kilometers to fill their tanks elsewhere.
The fuel crisis in Bole is not an isolated incident.
The town has experienced frequent fuel shortages in recent years, which have been attributed to a combination of factors, including inadequate fuel supply, poor road networks, and the lack of functional filling stations in the area.
In 2022, the Ghanaian government announced plans to construct a new fuel depot in the Northern Region to address the fuel supply challenges in the area.
However, the project has yet to be completed, leaving residents of Bole and surrounding communities to bear the brunt of the fuel shortage.
The manager of Amdaway Filling Station, O. Kasher, revealed that the station has been operating for over 12 hours daily to meet the overwhelming demand.
Despite the strain on staff, he assured residents of their commitment to ensuring fuel availability and providing much-needed relief to the community.
ENGLAND star Kieran Trippier is locked in a feud with his estranged wife Charlotte over their three kids.
The 34-year-old footballer broke one of their key parenting rules following their split – leaving his former missus raging.
The Newcastle player – who earns £130,000-a-week – was slapped down by his interior designer ex for sharing snaps of their three children’s faces on social media.
The Governor of Bank of Ghana, Dr Ernest Addison, has debunked claims of government interference in the Bank’s operations in the last eight years.
According to him, the calls for a reform to a more independent Bank of Ghana is a non-starter.
He therefore pointed out the Central Bank has been operating independently in the last eight years.
Speaking to George Wiafe on PM Express Business Edition, he attributed the recent losses made by the Central Bank to accumulation of debt from successive governments in the last 20 years
“I had a very big discussion with the fund on this because I think the Bank of Ghana has operated very independently. Those who do not think so do not understand because we have done that in the last eight years.”
“First, people don’t believe there was zero financing in 2017, 2018, 2019. In 2020 there was Covid, the government went to parliament, got approval to get GH10 billion cedis from the Central Bank. 2021 we were back to zero from a lot of effort from the Central Bank and then 2022 we went into a crisis”, he mentioned.
“So, people who don’t believe the Central Bank is independent do not understand the issues. So, I do not buy into the argument of the Bank of Ghana needs to be more independent. I think the Bank can operate effectively as it is now”, he added.
There had been calls for a review of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) Act by some civil society organisations and individuals in recent times to safeguard the Central Bank’s independence, while ensuring its accountability.
The Minister of Finance Dr Mohammed Amin Adam in July 2024 announced that cabinet had approved the proposed amendment of the BoG Act as part of efforts to boost the independence of the central bank.
The amendment is also aimed at addressing the recommendations by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) safeguard assessment to strengthen BoG’s autonomy.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has declared an indefinite strike, effective January 2, 2025, in a bold move to pressure the government to address their long-standing grievances.
This drastic step comes after repeated attempts at dialogue and arbitration awards, which have been ignored or delayed by the government.
At the heart of the strike are several key issues, including the government’s failure to comply with a compulsory arbitration award issued by the National Labour Commission (NLC) on May 2, 2023.
This award mandated the migration of teaching staff in colleges of education onto the pay structure of their affiliate universities, a process that remains incomplete after 20 months.
Additionally, CETAG is demanding payment of a one-month basic salary as compensation for all-year-round work performed by staff in 2022, which is yet to be made to 42 colleges of education.
The union is also seeking the issuance of new appointment letters based on staff audits and the affiliate universities’ schemes of service, which were expected to be issued by October 2024 but remain outstanding.
The strike is expected to disrupt academic activities at colleges of education nationwide, significantly affecting teacher training programs. CETAG’s leadership has stressed that their members will not return to work until all outstanding issues are resolved, citing section 159 of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).
This indefinite strike is a clear indication of the frustration and desperation felt by CETAG members, who have been patiently waiting for the government to address their concerns.
The government’s failure to comply with arbitration awards and signed agreements has led to this drastic measure, which will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences for the education sector.
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Zeqblog Blog of Thursday, 2 January 2025
Source: Okine Isaac
Prophet Francis Amoako Atta has offered his opinions on Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s presidency, commenting on his eight-year term and what lies ahead for Ghana in 2025. The prophet addressed critical concerns that he believes weakened Akufo-Addo’s administration and urged lessons to be learned for future governance.
According to Prophet Amoako Atta, one key problem in Akufo-Addo’s leadership was his failure to pick the proper people to the suitable positions. He claimed that several of the president’s appointees and ministers lacked the knowledge required to execute effectively in their respective posts.
He questioned the frequency of ministry replacements under Akufo-Addo’s term, highlighting the significance of strategic nominations for a successful administration. “In eight years, how many ministries and appointees has the President replaced? This shouldn’t happen. We must ensure that the appropriate individuals are in the proper positions. Prophet Amoako Atta remarked, “2025 is a new year and a new administration, and we must avoid making the same mistakes.”
Prophet Francis Amoako Atta, widely regarded as one of Ghana’s most notable prophets, is noted for his precise election predictions. He founded and leads The Lord’s Parliament Chapel International, and many of his prophesies have come true over time.
In politics, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo lost the 2012 presidential election to John Dramani Mahama but defeated him in the 2016 and 2020 elections. As Akufo-Addo’s administration comes to an end, attempts are apparently underway to rally support for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the chosen candidate in the upcoming election. Prophet Amoako Atta’s statements serve as a call to introspection and reform as the country prepares for a new chapter in its government. View the complete video below.
In a devastating turn of events, a police officer’s wedding day turned into a tragic nightmare when he suddenly collapsed and died, leaving his bride-to-be and family in shock and grief.
Chief Inspector Godwin Benibah, 46, was set to tie the knot with his fiancée, Florence Debrah, 29, on December 26, 2024, in Akyem Anamase, Eastern Region.
However, fate had other plans, and the groom’s sudden demise has left everyone reeling.
According to Florence, the day began like any other wedding day, with her preparing for the ceremony at an Anamase Hotel.
However, the joy and excitement were short-lived, as she soon heard cries and was informed that her husband to be had collapsed.
Despite being rushed to Anamase Clinic, Chief Inspector Benibah was pronounced dead, leaving Florence and her family in a state of shock and despair.
The events leading up to the groom’s death are still unclear, but Florence revealed that Chief Inspector Benibah had left her the previous day to remind wedding guests and visit the Police Headquarters in Accra to collect a special outfit.
He had been in high spirits, and there was no indication that anything was amiss.
Florence remembered her fiancé as a caring and generous partner who had been a pillar of support not only for her but also for her family, including her single mother, Madam Afia Buruwaa, 46. Madam Buruwaa described the deceased as the family’s breadwinner and pillar of support, highlighting the significant impact his loss will have on their lives.
The police have since transferred Chief Inspector Benibah’s body for further procedures, including an autopsy, which will hopefully shed more light on the circumstances surrounding his death.
As the family and friends of the deceased struggle to come to terms with their loss, they are left to pick up the pieces and wonder what could have been.
The sudden and unexpected death of Chief Inspector Benibah on his wedding day has sent shockwaves throughout the community.
For several years, Netflix has welcomed the new year with a propulsive thriller courtesy of bestselling author Harlan Coben. After last year’s offering, Fool Me Once, became one of Netflix’s most-watched shows of 2024, the streaming giant is back with Missing You, a gripping crime series about a detective whose world is shifted when she finds her ex-fiancé on a dating app. Based on Coben’s 2014 novel of the same name, the mystery thriller follows DI Kat Donovan (Rosalind Eleazar) as she investigates both the re-appearance of her ex and the truth behind her father’s mysterious death 11 years ago.
The new series features a talented cast of familiar faces, including Eleazar, Jessica Plummer, Richard Armitage, and Ashley Walters. In the days since Missing You‘s premiere, viewers have been particularly raving about rising actress Mary Malone for her heartbreaking performance as Aqua, one of Kat’s best friends with a devastating secret. Read on to learn more about the breakout star.
Mary Malone is a trans actress who hails from Suffolk, England.
Mary Malone is a television and theater actress in her mid-20s, who has mostly appeared in plays and musicals in the U.K. Per her Spotlight profile, she graduated from the University of Essex in 2020 and began acting in short films that year, making her TV debut in an episode of STARZ’s The Girlfriend Experience. Some of her standout theater productions include a 2022 West End production of As You Like It, the award-winning play The Prince, and the cult-favorite musical Fangirls.
Before Missing You, Malone appeared in Doctor Who‘s 2023 Christmas special as Trudy, a friend and bandmate of Ruby Sunday (Millie Gibson). Missing You is Malone’s first major TV role.
Mary Malone at the Missing You premiere.
Her artistic background includes singing, dancing, piano, and painting.
In addition to acting, Malone mentions several performing arts among her skills, from singing and dancing (per her musical theater background) to piano and puppetry. She has also shared her affinity for fine art on Instagram, including some images of her previous work.
She describes her character Aqua as an integral part of the mystery of ‘Missing You.’
Speaking to PinkNews, Malone described her Missing You character Aqua as a “Gemini witchy queen” who has always been there for her best friend Kat, and vice versa. She added that Aqua is an integral part of the season’s mystery.
“She is intertwined in the complex spider web that is Missing You,” Malone said of Aqua. “She’s woven in. She’s not this trans side character. She’s an essential part of the narrative. I got to do some stunts, which is really exciting, really fun, something I’ve not done before, and I really enjoyed it.”
Stacey (Jessica Plummer) and Aqua (Mary Malone) in Missing You.
Malone also told PinkNews that she was able to flesh out her character for the show and add a “rich complexity,” after Aqua received less nuanced treatment in the source novel.
“I think I’ve added myself to it, and been able to really ground her in a real-life trans human,” she said. “[Aqua’s] not all good, and she’s not all bad, and I think she’s a real human with a lot going on, which is really a joy to play…The narrative really does not surround her gender identity, so I think that’s great representation, and accurate representation that we actually are just living our lives.”
Her dream role is a bit surprising.
In an interview with Country & Town House, Malone opened up about the roles she’s wishing for most in the future. She revealed that she’d most love to work with her idol, filmmaker/author Miranda July, and that her ultimate dream role is surprisingly aquatic.
“I know it’s mad but I always dreamed of playing a mermaid,” she told the outlet. “I love films like Splash, Lady in the Water, The Lure. I’ve been drawn to mermaids and the ocean since I was little. So I’m waiting to be AV-checked for a badass queer mermaid film…anytime now.”
A devastating fire, believed to be the work of unidentified arsonists, has ravaged the maize farm of Savannah Regional Minister, Saeed Muhazu Jibril, in the Damongo municipality of the Region.
The blaze, which occurred despite efforts to safeguard the farm with fire belts, has not only destroyed the minister’s harvest but also disrupted the local food supply, leaving the community reeling in shock.
The farm, which was expected to play a crucial role in the area’s food supply, was left in ruins after the fire rapidly consumed the harvest. Farm workers, who had toiled tirelessly to bring in the crop, were overcome with emotion as they watched their labour go up in smoke.
The minister and his farm manager were equally devastated, struggling to come to terms with the extent of the damage.
However, authorities have launched an investigation into the suspected arson attack, but so far, the culprits remain at large.
The police have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward, as they work to determine the cause of the blaze and bring those responsible to justice.
Parliament has approved the 2025 Mini-Budget, totalling GHC68.13 billion, after thorough deliberation at the Finance Committee level with the Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam.
The budget will fund government operations for the first quarter of the year, pending the substantive budget presentation by the incoming Mahama administration.
The approval follows the Finance Minister’s presentation of the Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation for January to March 2025 on January 2, 2025.
The proposal was subsequently referred to the Joint Committee on Budget and Finance for review and recommendation, in line with Article 180 of the 1992 Constitution and the Standing Orders of Parliament.
Budget Highlights: Total Revenue and Grants: Projected at GHC42.54 billion (3.5% of GDP), including: GHC40.67 billion in Domestic Revenue. GHC1.87 billion in Tax Revenue. GHC68.65 million in Grants. GHC1.04 billion from Social Security Contributions and other revenue sources. Expenditure Provisions: Allocations focus on critical government functions, including tax refunds (GHC2.37 billion), healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
The approval process, marked by intense debate, underscores the contrasting views of the majority and minority parties.
Key points of contention included spending priorities in healthcare, education, and infrastructure, as well as revenue mobilisation strategies.
The Mini-Budget aims to address Ghana’s pressing fiscal needs while promoting economic stability. It also reflects Parliament’s commitment to averting a government shutdown amid concerns over delays in its presentation.
Despite earlier accusations by the minority that the Finance Minister deliberately postponed the presentation, the majority dismissed these claims, emphasing the budget’s critical role in maintaining government operations.
Tullow Oil PLC has announced a significant legal victory in its tax dispute with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Tribunal has ruled that the Branch Profit Remittance Tax (BPRT) does not apply to Tullow Ghana’s operations under the Deepwater Tano and West Cape Three Points Petroleum Agreements which cover the Jubilee and TEN offshore oil fields.
The decision by the Tribunal exempts Tullow Ghana from the $320 million BPRT assessment issued by the GRA and ensures the company will not face future BPRT liabilities for its operations under these agreements.
This ruling solidifies the tax framework outlined in the Petroleum Agreements which Tullow argued was the governing regime for its operations.
“As a result of the Tribunal’s award, Tullow Ghana is not liable to pay the $320 million BPRT assessment issued by the Ghana Revenue Authority and will have no future exposure to BPRT in respect of its operations under the Petroleum Agreements. Tullow continues to engage with the Government of Ghana on two further disputed tax claims, which were referred to the ICC in February 2023, with the aim of resolving these disputes on a mutually acceptable basis”, the company said in a press release.
Tullow CEO Rahul Dhir expressed satisfaction with the decision, stating, “we are delighted with the outcome and decision of the Tribunal, which affirms our assessment and removes a material overhang from our business. We have continuously had confidence in the sanctity of our Petroleum Agreements and the dispute resolution process, which has now brought certainty to all parties.”
Despite this resolution, Tullow remains engaged in discussions with the Government of Ghana over two additional tax disputes, which were referred to the ICC in early 2023.
The company has expressed its commitment to resolving these issues amicably and shifting focus to maximizing value from the Jubilee and TEN fields – critical assets in Ghana’s oil and gas sector.
Minister for Finance, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, has presented a proposed mini-budget of GH¢68.1 billion to Parliament, outlining the government’s plans to cover essential expenses from January to March 2025.
This move is a constitutional requirement during transition years to prevent fiscal disruptions.
The mini-budget is designed to ensure the smooth functioning of the state until the incoming administration presents its full-year budget for the remainder of 2025.
Key allocations in the proposal include funding for public sector salaries, statutory obligations, critical infrastructure maintenance, and social intervention programs.
This development comes after the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, warned against any further delays in presenting the Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation for January to March 2025.
The Minority had raised concerns, alleging a deliberate delay by the government in laying the document.
The proposed mini-budget has been referred to the Budget and Finance Committees for a detailed review.
The committees will analyze the figures and accompanying policies before reporting back to the House for debate and approval.
The presentation of the mini-budget sets the stage for deliberations and decisions on the proposed expenditure.
In recent years, Ghana has faced challenges in managing its finances, and the presentation of this mini-budget is a critical step towards addressing these challenges.
The proposed allocations will help to maintain essential government services, including the payment of public sector salaries and the maintenance of critical infrastructure.
The High Court in Koforidua has issued an interim injunction against the swearing-in of Ernest Kumi, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament-elect for Akwatia.
On December 12, 2024, the Electoral Commission officially declared Ernest Kumi the winner of the Akwatia parliamentary seat after a protracted and contentious electoral process.
Nkwanta (O/R), Jan.2, GNA – Deputy Superintendent of Prison (DSP), Mr Daniel Machator (Rtd), Oti Regional Minister, has feted more than 400 senior citizens in the Nkwanta South Municipality on New Year’s Day.
The event celebrated the invaluable contribution of the elderly, while promoting peace and togetherness in the area.
DSP Machator used the occasion to address the need for harmony and coexistence in the Municipality, especially in light of the recent tribal conflict that has hindered the area’s development.
He emphasised that peace was the cornerstone of progress and urged residents to work together to create a secure and prosperous environment.
The Minister honoured some deserving individuals, who have had great impact in his life, including his class 3 teacher, Madam Cecilia Addae Mensah.
The items awarded to the deserving individuals, including 32-inch televisions and hampers, as a token of appreciation for their contributions to education and community development.
The people present expressed gratitude to the Minister for such an initiative, which they believe is a step towards fostering unity in the area.
They also expressed concern about rising crime and violence in the area, urging leaders to prioritise security to restore the town to its once vibrant and peaceful atmosphere.
The Ministry of National Security has announced a directive prohibiting the operation of drones at the presidential inaugural ceremony on January 7, 2025.
This move is aimed at ensuring the safety and security of visiting guests, dignitaries, and the public at the Black Star Square and its surrounding areas.
This is not the first time drone operations have been restricted in Ghana. In recent years, the government has implemented various measures to regulate the use of drones, particularly in sensitive areas.
The directive issued by the Ministry of National Security is a continuation of these efforts to maintain national security and public safety.
According to the press release, the restriction applies to all types of drones, including recreational and commercial ones.
The Ministry of National Security has entreated all drone operators to cooperate with this directive and respect the security measures put in place.
The decision to ban drone operations on presidential inauguration day is likely a response to the growing concern about the potential use of drones for malicious purposes.
In recent years, there have been several incidents around the world where drones have been used to disrupt public events or compromise national security.
In Ghana, the use of drones has become increasingly popular, with many individuals and organizations using them for various purposes, including aerial photography and surveillance.
However, the government’s decision to restrict drone operations on presidential inauguration day highlights the need for responsible drone usage and the importance of prioritizing national security and public safety.
The Greater Accra branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is sending 60 of its most dedicated members on an exclusive trip to Dubai on January 4, fulfilling a key promise made by the party ahead of the elections.
The Duchess of Sussex has announced a new show on Netflix – which the streaming service describes as a lifestyle show that blends “practical how-to’s and candid conversation”.
With Love, Meghan premieres on 15 January and includes eight 30-minute episodes featuring appearances from celebrities such as actress Mindy Kaling and former Suits star Abigail Spencer.
In the trailer released on Thursday, Meghan garnishes a cake with raspberries and harvests honey in California, where she lives with her husband Prince Harry and two children.
She posted the trailer on her new Instagram account, writing: “I have been so excited to share this with you! I hope you love the show as much as I loved making it.”
The news comes a day after the Duchess returned to Instagram under the account @meghan.
Her first post showed her dressed in white, running on an overcast beach, to write 2025 in the sand, before dashing past the camera laughing.
Her second post shared the trailer for her upcoming show.
In it, she is seen making food in a home kitchen, shopping for flowers, and laughing and eating with friends.
“I’m going to share some little tips and tricks… and how you incorporate these practices every day,” Meghan says in the trailer’s voiceover.
“We’re not in the pursuit of perfection… we’re in the pursuit of joy,” she continues.
In one scene with others, Kaling says “this is probably one of the most glamorous moments of my life,” making Meghan burst into laughter.
Chefs Roy Choi and Alice Waters are also among the guests in the series.
“Everyone’s invited to create wonder in every moment,” the text of the trailer says.
Meghan’s husband Prince Harry even makes a brief appearance, with the two embracing as they hold drinks on a sunny outdoor patio. One of the couple’s dogs, Guy, also has a starring role.
Famous guests star in the series including Mindy Kaling who has appeared on the duchess’s podcast
Meghan, formerly an actress, married Prince Harry in 2018. The couple stepped down as senior royals in 2020 and moved to California.
Since then, the pair have started a production company and charitable foundation and pursued various ventures, including another Netflix show, called Harry & Meghan, about their relationship.
In April, the couple’s media company Archewell said two new series were in production, one celebrating “the joys of cooking & gardening, entertaining, and friendship” (now known to be With Love, Meghan), and another exploring the world of professional polo which aired in December.
Meghan also previously hosted a Spotify podcast Archetypes about stereotypes against women and launched a lifestyle brand called American Riviera Orchard in 2024.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Ghanaians will observe a total of 13 statutory public holidays and commemorative days in 2025.
These holidays, mandated by the constitution, have been outlined in a schedule released by the Ministry of the Interior on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
The schedule ensures that citizens are informed well in advance about days set aside for national reflection and cultural significance.
With New Year’s Day, January 1, already observed, the next public holiday will be Constitution Day on January 7, 2025, which falls on a Tuesday.
Independence Day, celebrated on March 6, will fall on a Thursday this year. Following that, the Easter holidays will include Good Friday on April 18 and Easter Monday on April 21. Workers’ Day, popularly known as May Day, will be marked on Thursday, May 1.
Mid-year holidays include Founders’ Day on August 4, which falls on a Monday, and Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day, commemorating the birthday of Ghana’s first president, on Sunday, September 21.
As the year draws to a close, December will feature three public holidays: Farmers’ Day on Friday, December 5, followed by Christmas Day and Boxing Day on Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, respectively.
Two Islamic holidays, Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha, are yet to be announced, as they are movable feasts.
“There are no fixed dates for Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha because they are movable feasts. The dates for their observation are provided by the Office of the Chief Imam each year,” the ministry noted.
In addition to statutory holidays, Ghana will observe two commemorative days—African Union Day on May 25 (Sunday) and Republic Day on July 1 (Tuesday). These commemorative days, while significant, are not public holidays.
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a press release reminding students, staff, parents, and the general public of the reopening dates for schools in the 2024/25 academic year.
According to the release, dated January 2, 2025, Senior High School (SHS) students are expected to report back to school on January 3, 2025, while primary and Junior High schools will reopen on January 8, 2025.
This announcement comes after the GES reverted to the pre-COVID-19 academic calendar, which was reset for September to July.
The new calendar allows for better planning and provides enough contact hours with students.
The GES had operated a transitional calendar from 2021 to 2022, with the school year starting from January to December, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The GES has also announced that it is engaging with the Ministry to resolve concerns raised by the leadership of the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS).
The service has requested that all stakeholders take note of the reopening dates and make necessary arrangements accordingly.
In recent years, the GES has made efforts to improve the education sector, including the introduction of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.
The policy, which was introduced in 2017, aims to provide free education to all SHS students in public schools.
Lisa Hochstein called out Katharina Nahlik for copying a look she wore to film The Real Housewives of Miami season seven finale weeks ago on New Year’s Eve.
After Lisa, 42, wore the dress for a second time on New Year’s Eve and shared photos of herself celebrating the holiday with her boyfriend, Jody Glidden, 50, Katharina, 29, turned up in the same look as she rang in the New Year with Lisa’s ex-husband, Lenny Hochstein, 58.
I Was At Jubilee House Today And It Dawned On Me That Power Is Indeed Ephemeral- Prez Staffer
News Hub Creator2h
Presidential staffer and social media communication member of the New Patriotic Party, Justice A. Newton-Offei ha shared a profound reflections after visiting the Jubilee House today. He emphasized the transient nature of political power and its foundation in the will of the people, who, according to him, wield the ultimate authority to grant or withdraw it.
“Political power, indeed, is ephemeral,” Newton-Offei stated, adding that many leaders often forget that their tenure is “wielded on borrowed time.” He lamented humanity’s failure to learn from history, highlighting the recurring pattern of arrogance and mismanagement by those entrusted with leadership.
Justice Newton-Offei also defended president Akufo Addo, describing him as a good leader who earnestly worked for the country but was let down by some indications he trusted.
“Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is a good man who, wholeheartedly, did his best, but some people he trusted failed him” he remarked, presenting nuanced critique of the administration’s challenges.
Newton-Offei concluded with a poignant remark on the changing political landscape in Ghana, noting that the “die is cast l” and the people have reclaimed their power. Urging humility, Newton called reflection, advising leaders to humble themselves and be responsible for their community.
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Spencer Wan Blog of Thursday, 2 January 2025
Source: Eric Afatsao
Glorious Word Power Ministries International’s founder and leader, Rev. Isaac Owusu-Bempah, has called on National Democratic Congress (NDC) members and supporters to observe a fast on January 6, 2025, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
He stressed the importance of this spiritual practice in his speech, which he delivered during the 31st December Watchnight Service at his church. As he gets ready to take office on January 7, 2025, the prophet underlined that this fasting is essential to Ghana’s growth and President-elect John Dramani Mahama’s success. According to Rev. Owusu-Bempah, this summons is straight from God and ought to be heeded.
In my capacity as God’s prophet, I am delivering a message. Every NDC supporter, including influential people like Sammy Gyamfi, Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, Julius Debrah, and Asiedu Nketia, needs to make a quick commitment to this.
This is a heavenly command, so please don’t ignore what I say or criticize me,” he said. He added that although he would not reveal the precise rationale behind the fast, he reassured his followers that it is a divine command meant to protect the next administration from spiritual perils. He urged confidence in his leadership by reminding everyone of his earlier prediction that the NPP will lose the 2024 elections.
With 56.55% of the vote, John Dramani Mahama defeated Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP to win the December 2024 elections. In an effort to increase support for the president-elect, Rev. Owusu-Bempah has asked his congregation to observe the fast as the inauguration draws near.
He came to the conclusion that “this fast is essential to thwart any schemes of the enemy.” The remark made by Rev. Owusu-Bempah has sparked discussions in the theological and political spheres.
President-elect John Dramani Mahama, who promised Ghanaians “Manna” during his campaign to Reset Ghana as he prepares to assume office, has begun to shift the blame for Ghana’s economic woes to the outgoing New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.
In a recent address to supporters at Osiem Saviour Church in the Eastern Region, the President-elect claimed that the NPP has left behind a trail of debt that his administration will have to contend with.
According to John Mahama, the NPP government owes the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) a substantial amount, which has led to a threat to withhold the release of the 2024 WASSCE results.
He said, “I saw someone’s post on social media saying that had it not been for the incumbent NPP government, they wouldn’t have known that WAEC is paid for conducting examinations because it has never been an issue.”
“Now we know that the government owes WAEC, and WAEC has stated plainly that if the government does not settle its debt, the WASSCE results will not be released. Even with the much-trumpeted Free SHS program, a letter issued by CHASS indicated that the government had owed schools money since 2021.
Speaking of electricity, the government owes $2 billion.
Furthermore, John Mahama stated that the government owes a whopping $2 billion in electricity debts.
John Mahama’s comments appear to be a strategic move to manage public expectations and shift the blame for the country’s economic challenges to the outgoing government.
By highlighting the alleged mismanagement of the economy by the NPP, John Mahama is attempting to create a narrative that his administration will have to inherit a difficult situation.
He added: “This is because the NPP government has set a trap for us. But we shall not be caught in that trap; we will escape unscathed. The Almighty God who granted us electoral victory will see us through the difficulties ahead until we achieve success. God will give us the wisdom to lead this country and make it better for the next generation. This is the time we need to pray harder than we did during the campaign for God to grant us the strength and wisdom to implement measures that will make Ghana a better place to live. All I will say is that it is finished; God has already done it.”
However, some critics argue that Mahama’s comments are a classic case of blame-shifting and that his administration should focus on finding solutions to the country’s problems rather than pointing fingers.
Others have pointed out that John Mahama’s administration, during his previous tenure as president, was also criticized for its handling of the economy.
Mahama stated that his administration will need divine guidance to navigate the complex issues facing the country.
While some have welcomed Mahama’s call to prayer, others have criticized it as an attempt to deflect attention from the real issues facing the country.
Opera News Releases Most Published and Double Deposit Winners For December
News Hub Creator44min
In line with Opera News’ tradition to improve the earning power and reward authors who are active and posting quality articles on the hub, we are excited to announce the new set of winners for the Most Published Articles Challenge for All Writers
This was an opportunity for authors to earn extra income in addition to their current earnings on the hub
Below is the list of winners who earned between GSH600 – GSH400 for their articles published in the month of November 2024, having met the selection criteria.
A few other authors who fell short of the selection criteria were also encouraged with between GSH300 – GSH100
Congrats to the winners!!
As always, Opera News assures authors that high-quality original articles will always receive traffic and monetary benefits far exceeding plagiarised content.
We hope that this gesture to reward quality and good performance continually will encourage creators to put their best foot forward at all times.
The Ashanti Region has become the latest to join the list of areas affected by the cholera outbreak sweeping across Ghana.
With five confirmed cases reported in three districts, health authorities are scrambling to contain the spread of the disease.
The first cases were reported in the Sekyere South District, with three confirmed cases, while Kumasi and Bekwai have each recorded one case as of December 28, 2024.
Out of 28 suspected cases, laboratory results confirmed five positive cases, marking a worrying trend in the region.
This development comes on the heels of a nationwide cholera outbreak that has affected the Western, Greater Accra, and Central Regions.
Since October 2024, Ghana has recorded 4,155 suspected cases and 35 fatalities, with the Western Region being the hardest hit, claiming 15 lives out of over 100 cases reported.
Background of the Outbreak
The cholera outbreak in Ghana began in the Western Region, where the disease was first reported in October 2024.
The outbreak was attributed to poor sanitation and hygiene practices, particularly in rural areas where access to clean water and sanitation facilities is limited.
As the outbreak spread to other regions, health authorities implemented emergency response measures, including disinfecting homes of confirmed cases, isolating affected individuals, and tracing their contacts.
Public health surveillance was also enhanced, and public health emergency committees were mobilized in affected areas.
Response In Ashanti Region
In response to the outbreak in the Ashanti Region, the Regional Health Directorate, led by Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng, has initiated several measures to contain the spread of the disease.
These include: Disinfecting homes of confirmed cases; Isolating affected individuals and tracing their contacts and Enhancing public health surveillance in collaboration with district health teams. Mobilizing public health emergency committees in affected areas, and intensifying awareness campaigns and training healthcare workers on case definitions, identification, and contact tracing.
Health authorities are urging residents to adhere to hygiene protocols, including frequent handwashing, safe food preparation, and proper sanitation practices, to curb the disease’s spread.
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Spencer Wan Blog of Thursday, 2 January 2025
Source: Eric Afatsao
Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan has remorsefully described how the New Patriotic Party, the soon-to-be-defunct administration, used his celebrity to solicit votes during last year’s general elections on December 7.
Gyan, the 2010 BBC African Footballer of the Year, was appointed head of Bawumia’s Youth and Sports Manifesto subcommittee in February 2024, not long after he was seen at the campaign kickoff of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s presidential candidate and vice president.
The 38-year-old Gyan, however, stated that his acts have not been fair to the Ghanaian youngsters and that he will no longer be taking part in partizan work in the future.
“I haven’t treated Ghanaians and their youth fairly. I will no longer be a member of any political party.
“I’m going to keep doing my humanitarian work and do what I can to support Ghana’s youth.” Nothing related to politics
“I hope that the elections scheduled for December 7th go smoothly for all political parties. God bless Ghana, our nation.
Gyan wrote on X with the statement, “Thank you.”
In a live Instagram session on January 2, 2025, Gyan claimed that the NPP had instead exploited his name and reputation to garner votes, which had earned him recognition in Ghana.
According to him, “I have lost respect in Ghana because the NPP exploited me and my popularity to get people to vote for them.”
In the said elections, New Patriotic Party lost decisively amassing 4,735,687 representing 41.4% to John Dramani Mahama’s National Democratic Congress‘ 6,499,082 representing 56.8% in the presidential race.
Tullow Oil PLC announced today January 2, 2024, a favorable ruling from the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) regarding a significant tax dispute with the Ghana Revenue Authority.
The ICC Tribunal concluded that the Branch Profit Remittance tax (BPRT) does not apply to Tullow Ghana’s operations under its Petroleum Agreements for the Deepwater Tano and West Cape Three Points blocks, which include the notable Jubilee and TEN fields offshore Ghana.
The Tribunal’s decision exempts Tullow Ghana from a $320 million BPRT assessment previously levied by the Ghana Revenue Authority.
Additionally, the company will not face future BPRT liabilities for these operations. Tullow Oil has been engaged in a broader dispute with the Ghanaian government over tax claims and aims to resolve the remaining issues amicably.
Rahul Dhir, Tullow Chief Executive Officer, expressed satisfaction with the Tribunal’s decision, stating, “We are delighted with the outcome and decision of the Tribunal, which affirms our assessment and removes a material overhang from our business.”
Mr. Dhir emphasised the company’s confidence in its Petroleum Agreements and the dispute resolution process, which has now provided certainty to all parties involved.
The resolution of this tax dispute is a significant development for Tullow Oil, allowing the company to focus on maximising value from its Ghanaian operations without the burden of the contested tax. As Tullow continues discussions with the Ghanaian government regarding other disputed tax claims, this recent ruling may set a precedent for the outcome of those negotiations.
The information in this article is based on a press release statement from Tullow Oil PLC. The company, which is listed on both the London and Ghanaian stock exchanges under the ticker symbol LSE:TLW, is an independent energy company with a focus on responsible oil and gas development in Africa.
Tullow is also committed to achieving Net Zero on its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030 and aims to deliver lasting socio-economic benefits in its host nations through its Shared Prosperity strategy.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Former Black Stars player Asamoah Gyan has claimed that the recent Kantamanto fire outbreak may have been politically motivated.
In a passionate outburst on Instagram Live, Gyan suggested that the incident could have been orchestrated by either the New Patriotic Party (NPP) or the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for political reasons.
Explaining the potential motives of the two main political parties, Gyan alleged that the NDC might have started the fire as part of a strategy to begin a new project in the area without directly displacing traders.
“What is happening, it could be NPP or NDC. The NDC might want to start a project in the area and not know how to relocate the people, so they would clear the place. It’s also possible that the NDC needs funds, so they destroy the market and seek a loan from the Bank of Ghana,” he claimed.
Regarding the NPP, Gyan speculated that they could have set the fire to shift blame onto the NDC.
“It’s possible that the NPP wanted to destroy it so people would accuse the NDC. I’m not taking sides because I won’t allow myself to be manipulated again,” he stated.
The devastating fire, which tore through the Kantamanto market, caused extensive damage to many shops and properties.
The Ghana National Fire Service confirmed that the blaze, which began around 1 a.m. on Thursday, January 2, 2024, has been contained, with ongoing efforts to prevent further destruction.
Thirteen fire tenders were dispatched to the site to combat the intense flames. Firefighters have been working tirelessly to control the fire and stop it from spreading.
Footage from the scene shows the market shrouded in smoke, with the fire visibly wreaking havoc on the area.
GCB Bank has announced the temporary closure of its Liberty House Branch in Accra on Thursday, January 2, 2024, following a fire outbreak at the Kantamanto market.
The move by the state-owned bank is to prioritise the safety of bank staff, customers, and assets.
A statement issued by the bank assured its customers that measures have been put in place to minimize inconvenience to its cherished clients.
“GCB Bank PLC wishes to inform its customers and the general public that, due to the inconvenience caused by the fire earlier this morning at the Kantamanto Market in the Central Business District of Accra, its Liberty House branch has been temporarily closed to the public,” the statement read.
It further encouraged customers to visit any of the nearby branches, such as Katamanto, Makola, Okaishie, Derby Avenue, Adabraka, Republic House, and High Street, for banking services.
The statement also noted that the bank’s digital platforms and branches nationwide remain accessible for seamless service.
GCB Bank reaffirmed its commitment to delivering value to its customers at all times.
“Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience caused,” the statement added.
The bank said that the reopening date for the Liberty House Branch will be announced in due course.
JKB/MA
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When it comes to dental health, most people think they need expensive treatments or products to maintain a bright smile. But what if you could achieve whiter teeth and remove tartar with a natural ingredient found in your kitchen? Turmeric, a golden spice known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, is gaining popularity as an effective and natural way to improve dental health.
As the curtain draws on his presidency, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is poised to deliver his final State of the Nation Address to Parliament this Friday, January 3, 2025.
This milestone event marks the President’s last report to the nation, as mandated by Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, before relinquishing power.
President Akufo-Addo’s address will be a culmination of his eight-year tenure, during which he has implemented various policies and programs aimed at transforming Ghana’s economy and improving the lives of its citizens.
The President’s speech is expected to highlight his administration’s achievements, challenges, and lessons learned, as well as offer words of wisdom and caution to his successor.
The event will also signal the beginning of the end of the 8th Parliament, which will be officially dissolved on Monday, January 6, 2025.
The 9th Parliament will convene later that day, marking the start of a new legislative term. As part of the transition, the Speaker-elect and newly elected Members of Parliament will be sworn in at midnight, ushering in a fresh era of lawmaking.
In preparation for the historic event, Parliament has advised media personnel to secure accreditation in advance to ensure smooth coverage.
Finance Minister, Dr Mohammed Amin Adam, today presented the budget for the first quarter of 2025 to parliament.
The mini budget was stuck in the middle of a disagreement between the then minority NDC and majority NPP in Parliament over some outstanding government business notably some request for tax waivers.
The outgoing government is requesting 68.1 billion cedis to keep the government running until the incoming John Mahama government presents its substantive budget for 2025.
Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Andrew Asiamah Amoako referred the document to the Budget and Finance Committees for detailed review. The committees were tasked with scrutinising the figures and policies before reporting back to the House for debate and approval.
The temporary budget will take care of the salaries of public sector workers, statutory payments, critical infrastructure maintenance, and fund the government’s social intervention programmes.
On December 20, 2024, Parliament adjourned without the reading of the mini-budget statement.
The Vote on Account, a provisional financial measure, was essential for government operations until the full 2025 budget is approved by the incoming administration.
However, parliamentary proceedings were stalled when the Finance Minister failed to appear, leaving members, especially on the NDC side frustrated.
As the curtains rise on 2025, cinema lovers in Nigeria have plenty to be excited about. This year promises a dazzling array of blockbuster movies that will ignite screens with action-packed adventures, heartwarming tales, and mind-bending stories.
With state-of-the-art visual effects, compelling narratives, and star-studded casts, these films are set to redefine entertainment and spark conversations.
Ghana’s Parliament has approved the 2025 Mini-Budget, totalling GHC68.13 billion, after thorough deliberation at the Finance Committee level with the Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam.
The budget will fund government operations for the first quarter of the year, pending the substantive budget presentation by the incoming Mahama administration.
The approval follows the Finance Minister’s presentation of the Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation for January to March 2025 on January 2, 2025.
The proposal was subsequently referred to the Joint Committee on Budget and Finance for review and recommendation, in line with Article 180 of the 1992 Constitution and the Standing Orders of Parliament.
Budget Highlights:
Total Revenue and Grants: Projected at GHC42.54 billion (3.5% of GDP), including:
GHC40.67 billion in Domestic Revenue.
GHC1.87 billion in Tax Revenue.
GHC68.65 million in Grants.
GHC1.04 billion from Social Security Contributions and other revenue sources.
Expenditure Provisions: Allocations focus on critical government functions, including tax refunds (GHC2.37 billion), healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
The approval process, marked by intense debate, underscores the contrasting views of the majority and minority parties. Key points of contention included spending priorities in healthcare, education, and infrastructure, as well as revenue mobilization strategies.
The Mini-Budget aims to address Ghana’s pressing fiscal needs while promoting economic stability. It also reflects Parliament’s commitment to averting a government shutdown amid concerns over delays in its presentation.
Despite earlier accusations by the minority that the Finance Minister deliberately postponed the presentation, the majority dismissed these claims, emphasizing the budget’s critical role in maintaining government operations.
The passage of this budget signals a critical transition as the Mahama administration prepares to take office. All eyes will now be on the government to ensure the effective implementation of the budget and the fulfilment of its policy objectives for the nation.
As John Dramani Mahama prepares to take the reins of power for the Second time, he faces a daunting challenge: selecting the best brains to execute his mandate.
With his inauguration slated for January 7, 2025, at the Black Stars Square in Accra, John Mahama has confessed to having a hard time making the crucial decision. Mahama is noted for having difficulties in decision making.
According to him, the task of choosing his appointees is a weighty responsibility, one that requires divine wisdom.
“No man has yet invented a machine that can see into the minds or hearts of human beings, and yet I have to choose a team to work with me,” he lamented.
Mr Mahama has therefore resorted to seeking God’s wisdom to guide him in selecting the best individuals for every available position.
The President-elect’s predicament is understandable, given the high stakes involved.
John Mahama’s next administration will be tasked with regaining the trust of Ghana’s youth and demonstrating the effectiveness of democracy.
He noted, “We need to be selfless so that we can regain the trust of our young people and show them that democracy indeed works.”
An Accra High Court is set to deliver its ruling on January 4, 2025, on the mandamus application filed by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) concerning the disputed constituencies of Tema Central, Okaikwei Central, Techiman South, and Ablekuma North.
This decision comes after the court dismissed an objection by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) questioning the court’s jurisdiction to entertain the application.
The NPP’s mandamus application seeks to compel the Electoral Commission (EC) to complete the collation of results in the affected constituencies.
According to Gary Nimako, leading the team of lawyers for the NPP candidates, the EC failed to complete the collation process between December 8, 2024, and January 1, 2025, which is deemed an unreasonable delay.
The dispute centers around the EC’s alleged failure to follow proper procedures in declaring winners in the affected constituencies.
The NPP claims that declarations were made without completing the collation of polling station results, which is a breach of Regulation 43 of C.I. 127.
The Electoral Commission, represented by Justin Amenuvor, has supported the NPP’s application, urging the court to order the EC to complete its duty.
Amenuvor warned that failure to issue such an order could set a dangerous precedent, potentially enabling unlawful interference in future elections.
In contrast, lawyers for the NDC candidates have opposed the application, arguing that a prerequisite for granting a mandamus is a demand that has been refused, which they claim has not been made in this case.
Former NPP National Chairman, Freddie Blay![[Music] Lil Baby – By Myself ft Rod Wave & Rylo Rodriguez](https://www.ghanamma.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/d0fdff812c282e0e112e7a2ee6babac8-1.jpeg "[Music] Lil Baby – By Myself ft Rod Wave & Rylo Rodriguez")
