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NDC govt has Asanteman at heart; we’ll not disappoint the Region – Ejura MP

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Member of Parliament for Ejura-Sekyedumase, Muhammad Bawah Braimah, has expressed confidence that President Mahama will improve Asanteman’s condition.

His statement comes during President Mahama’s visit to Kumasi on Saturday, January 18 where he is set to attend a church service at the Ebenezer Miracle Worship Center in Ahenema Kokoben on Sunday, 19th January, 2025.

Mahama’s use of brother’s private jet won’t cost Ghana a dime – Felix Kwakye Ofosu

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President John Dramani Mahama’s use of his brother Ibrahim Mahama’s private jet for official trip to Senegal and The Gambia has been defended by his acting spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who assured the public that the arrangement comes at no cost to the Ghanaian taxpayer.

Explaining the decision during an interview with TV3 on Saturday, January 18, 2025, Mr Kwakye Ofosu revealed that the presidential aircraft is currently undergoing a review by the Communications Squadron, the Air Force unit responsible for its management.

Until the review is concluded, alternative travel arrangements are being made to ensure prudent use of state resources.

The most critical point is that this alternative arrangement has not in any way, shape, or form cost the Ghanaian taxpayer a dime,” he stated.

President Mahama is mindful of the precarious economic situation and is committed to utilising public funds prudently.”

He added that the jet, owned by businessman Ibrahim Mahama, was readily available for the trip and has been at the president’s disposal even before his election.

While some critics have questioned the decision to use a private jet for official duties, Mr Kwakye Ofosu dismissed their concerns, reiterating that the arrangement aligns with President Mahama’s commitment to efficient governance and responsible use of resources.

The president is focused on ensuring the best outcomes for Ghana, especially during these economically challenging times,” he said.

Mr Kwakye Ofosu also assured the public that President Mahama would resume using the official presidential jet once the review is complete, reaffirming his dedication to transparency and accountability in managing state affairs.

I intend petitioning O.R.A.L over Akufo-Addo’s statue

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Artiste Manager, Bulldog has hinted at petitioning Operation Recover All Loot to look into erecting a statue for former President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

According to him, the persons involved in erecting the statue need to be arrested and jailed for erecting such a statue.

Bulldog who was speaking on Accra-based United Television indicated that the statue was a useless venture and a waste of the taxpayer’s money that needs to be accounted for.

Two high-profile Iranian judges killed in ‘planned assassination’

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Jan 18 (CNN/GNA) — Two veteran Iranian Supreme Court judges known for handling high-profile cases were shot dead inside the court in Tehran, state-affiliated media reported.

The Iranian judiciary said the assailant – who had no pending legal cases – killed Mohammad Moghiseh and Judge Ali Razini in a “planned assassination” and attempted to flee before taking his own life, Mizan News Agency reported.

A guard was injured in the attack, judiciary spokesperson Asghar Jahangir said, according to the agency.

Moghiseh and Razini were veteran justices who for decades headed courts involved in trying protesters, artists and activists.

Moghiseh was sanctioned by the United States in 2019 for overseeing “countless unfair trails, during which charges went unsubstantiated and evidence was disregarded.” He was sanctioned by the European Union eight years prior.

In one case alone he sentenced eight Iranian Facebook users to a combined 127 years in prison for anti-regime publicity and insults to religion. He had also tried filmmakers and poets for “propaganda against the state,” the US Treasury Department said.

In another case in 2019, he sentenced prominent Iranian human rights lawyer and women’s rights defender Nasrin Sotoudeh to 33 years in prison and 148 lashes, according to Amnesty International.

In 1999, Razini survived an assassination attempt after a bomb was attached to his vehicle, Iran’s Fars news agency said. Along with former president Ebrahim Raisi, he is accused of being one of the judges involved in the “Death Commission” – an infamous committee that oversaw the prosecution and execution of thousands of political prisoners in 1988.

Act like you’re dead and be quiet on national issues

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Artiste manager Bullgod (L), and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo (R) Artiste manager Bullgod (L), and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo (R)

Artiste Manager Bullgod has asked former president Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to act like he is dead while enjoying his retirement.

In a discussion on UTV’s United Showbiz on January 18, 2025, Bullgod noted that he does not want the president to speak on anything concerning the country.

According to Bullgod, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, while president, gagged every individual in the country, so he must remain silent.

“Look where we are as a country, we don’t have time. Is John Dramani Mahama Akufo-Addo’s PR? Somebody like Akufo-Addo should never speak in Ghana again. He shouldn’t even cough. Some of us will make it our agenda.

“He will hear what we will tell him if he speaks. He should behave like he is dead and buried. I tell you that the inauguration we did was his funeral. He is dead,” he said.

Meanwhile, watch as Empress Gifty weeps uncontrollably as she pays last respects to her mother:

Check your temperament now that you are becoming a minister

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Professor Smart Sarpong and Kwame Governs Agbodza Professor Smart Sarpong and Kwame Governs Agbodza

Ghanaian pollster and political pundit, Professor Smart Sarpong, has advised the Minister for Roads and Highways-designate, Kwame Governs Agbodza, to manage his temperament as he prepares to assume his role.

In an interview with Accra-based Peace FM, Sarpong expressed his confidence in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament for Adaklu.

He highlighted Agbodza’s disciplined nature, noting that he was singled out among all MPs for his punctuality and behaviour.

“Out of all the MPs, he was singled out because of that. Even Speaker Mike Ocquaye, who is not from his party, acknowledged Agbodza’s discipline. For Speaker Ocquaye to testify to Agbodza’s punctuality and behaviour speaks volumes,” he remarked.

He further emphasised that Agbodza’s disciplined approach would likely influence contractors to improve their work standards.

However, Professor Sarpong also advised Agbodza to manage his temperament, noting that while he means well, his quick-tempered nature could pose challenges in handling issues effectively.

“The only thing I will tell him is to check his temperament. If you examine him, he is somewhat quick-tempered. There are people like that, they mean well but when it comes to handling issues, they tend to be like that.

“So now that he is managing people, he should learn how to manage his temperament,” he added.

President John Dramani Mahama has announced new ministerial nominees on January 16, 2025.

Haruna Iddrisu is set to lead the education ministry, while Governs Kwame Agbodza will head the roads and highways ministry, focusing on infrastructure development. Eric Opoku, nominated for the food and agriculture ministry, aims to boost food security and support farmers.

Opare Addo will lead the newly created Ministry for Youth Development and Empowerment, prioritising youth-focused policies. Elizabeth Ofosu Adjare is nominated for the Ministry for Trade and Agribusiness, aiming to strengthen trade relations and promote agribusiness.

Ahmed Ibrahim and Emelia Arthur are nominated for the Ministries of Local Government and Fisheries and Aquaculture, respectively.

ID/EK

Meanwhile, watch as Ghanaians warn President Mahama of consequences if betting tax is not abolished

TikTok goes offline in the US hours before ban

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TikTok currently unavailable in the US TikTok currently unavailable in the US

TikTok has gone offline in the US, hours before a new law banning the platform was due to come into effect.

A message on the app for US users said a law banning TikTok had been enacted, meaning “you can’t use TikTok for now”.

The video-sharing app was banned over concerns about its links to the Chinese government. It was given a deadline of 19 January to be sold to an approved US buyer.

President Joe Biden had said he would leave the issue to his successor, Donald Trump. Trump has said he will “most likely” give TikTok a 90-day reprieve from a ban once he takes office on Monday.

“The 90-day extension is something that will be most likely done because it’s appropriate,” Trump told NBC News on Saturday.

“If I decide to do that, I’ll probably announce it on Monday.”

Users reported that the app had also been removed from Apple and Google’s US app stores, and TikTok.com was not showing videos.

“We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office,” the message displayed after the ban went into force read.

Could TikTok ever be banned in the UK too?

The Supreme Court on Friday upheld the law, passed in April last year, banning the app in the US unless its China-based parent company, ByteDance, sold the platform by Sunday, which it has not done.

TikTok has argued that the law violates free speech protections for its 170 million users in the country.

After the ruling, TikTok’s chief executive, Shou Zi Chew, appealed to Trump, thanking him for his “commitment to work with us to find a solution.”

Mr Chew is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration on Monday.

In the hours before the social media platform went offline, content creators posted videos to say goodbye to their followers.

Creator Nicole Bloomgarden told the BBC that not being on TikTok would result in a significant salary cut.

Another user, Erika Thompson, said educational content on the platform would be the “biggest loss” for the community.

TikTok users were met with a message earlier on Saturday that said the law would “force us to make our services temporarily unavailable. We’re working to restore our service in the U.S. as soon as possible.”

Watch as Ghanaians share their views on National Cathedral project, cutting down of ministries:

I’m confident Black Stars will qualify for 2026 World Cup – Joseph Paintsil

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Black Stars and LA Galaxy winger Joseph Paintsil is confident about the team’s qualification for the upcoming 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Paintsil has been part of the Black Stars squad during challenging times, including consecutive group-stage eliminations at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021 and 2023.

Speaking on GHOne TV with Monica Bukari, he highlighted the importance of Ghana’s representation in the World Cup and expressed optimism about securing qualification.

“I’m positive that Black Stars will qualify for the World Cup because it’s something that’s really dear to me, I also want to play in the World Cup. I never had the opportunity to play in the World Cup, so having the opportunity now to qualify and represent myself, my family, and my friends is really something important for me”.

“So me going to the field, I need to give everything, so that’s the most important thing and every player is going to do the same thing“.

Ghana’s Black Stars will resume qualification matches in March 2025, aiming to earn a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Coach Otto Addo’s side will face Chad and Madagascar in crucial games that could determine their standing in Group I.

Currently, Ghana is at the top of the group after two impressive wins this month.

Meanwhile, watch the latest edition of Sports Debate below:

Snoop Dogg’s daughter Cori Broadus, 25, expecting first baby, admits pregnancy was ‘so unplanned’

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Snoop Dogg’s daughter, Cori Broadus, is expecting her first child — a baby girl — with her longtime partner and fiancé, Wayne Deuce.

“I found out Oct. 28,” she told E! News, confirming the news on Monday. “This baby is so unplanned, but we are soooooo blessed.”

The 25-year-old further revealed she is four months pregnant and that her famous father — born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. — and mom Shante Broadus can’t wait for their granddaughter’s arrival.

Snoop Dogg’s daughter, Cori Broadus, and her finacé, Wayne Deuce, are expecting their first child together.
Cori Broadus, seen here, put her bump on full display in pictures posted to Deuce's Instagram on Monday.
The 25-year-old, seen here, put her bump on full display in pictures posted to Deuce’s Instagram on Monday.

“My mom and dad were so excited, their baby girl is having a baby,” she said. “My dad was hoping for a grandson, though.”

The expectant mother described her pregnancy as “high risk” due to her battle with lupus, which she was diagnosed with at 6 years old.

According to the Lupus Foundation of America, lupus is “an autoimmune disease, which means that your immune system … attacks healthy tissue instead” of fighting infections.

While doctors are “very concerned” for her and the baby, Cori believes “God has his hands on [her] and says “[she] and the baby are doing perfectly fine.”

A sonogram of Cori Broadus' baby.
Another snap showed a sonogram.
A sonogram of Cori Broadus' baby.
Broadus is pregnant with a girl.

“I’m just excited to love on my baby girl and make her feel like she’s the prettiest in the world,” she gushed.

“Growing up, I wasn’t the most confident and never felt like I fit in, so just to instill all the beautiful things in her head at a young age. And I’m having a mini me.”

As for Deuce, Cori said he’s excited that their baby girl will hopefully look like her.

“He knows she is going to be so beautiful and he just can’t wait to build things for her and give her all the love in the world,” she told the outlet.

Cori Broadus' pregnancy test.
Broadus shared a pregnancy test via her Instagram Story on Monday.
Snoop Dogg's daughter Cori Broadus' gender reveal party.
She also gave a peek at her gender reveal party.

On Monday, Deuce announced the news on Instagram, sharing several photos of himself, his pregnant fiancée and a sonogram snap.

“Girl dad 💗 can’t wait to meet you baby girl 🥹,” he captioned the emotional post.

Cori also took to her Story to reveal her June 13th due date and share snaps from her recent gender reveal party, where she was surrounded by pink confetti.

Cori and Deuce got engaged in November 2022 after four years of dating.

Snoop Dogg posing with his daughter Cori Broadus.
The rapper’s daughter is expecting a girl.
Snoop Dogg posing with his daughter Cori Broadus.
She’s four months pregnant.

The couple’s baby news comes after Cori suffered a “severe stroke” in January.

“I had a severe stroke this am,” she shared via her Instagram story while lying down in a hospital bed. “I started breaking down crying when they told me.”

It’s unclear if Cori’s battle with lupus caused the health scare.

Kennedy Agyapong Claim He Is Rich But He Pocketed GH¢100M Meant For Streetlights

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On Friday, January 17, 2025, Skipper Shrewd, the powerful host of Onua television’s morning program, took an intense position against Kennedy Agyapong, a noticeable legislator and business visionary. Chief Shrewd asserted that Agyapong got GH¢100 million expected for his significant other to secure streetlamps for different networks in Ghana, yet the task won’t ever appear.

Communicating his disappointment, Commander Brilliant commented, “Kennedy Agyapong took that gigantic aggregate for his significant other to purchase streetlamps. What a shame! Where could the GH¢100 million be? They stashed this cash with practically no respect for individuals’ necessities.”

The notable television character approached the resistance Public Majority rule Congress (NDC) to send off an examination concerning this indicated abuse of assets. He asked their Oversight Obligation and Responsibility Association (ORAL) group to intercede and uncover reality with regards to the missing cash.

Skipper Shrewd proceeded to scrutinize Agyapong further, blaming him for lacking trustworthiness towards the residents of Ghana. He called attention to that numerous authorities from the decision New Enthusiastic Party (NPP), including Agyapong, have neglected to be straightforward in their activities.

“You couldn’t really be well off when you and your better half have taken such a critical sum intended to help Ghanaians and didn’t do anything with it. This is defilement at its pinnacle, and individuals of Ghana have the right to know reality,” Commander Shrewd announced.

This claim raises basic worries about responsibility and uprightness among political figures. Skipper Brilliant’s remarks have lighted discussions about the need for straightforwardness in open drives and the continuous fight against defilement in Ghana.

Easy and Tasteful Protective Hairstyles for Natural Hair

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Natural hair offers incredible versatility, but maintaining its health and vitality requires special attention. Protective hairstyles are an excellent way to safeguard your strands while still looking stylish. Here are some easy and tasteful protective hairstyles that are perfect for natural hair.

1. Box Braids

Box braids are a classic protective style that never goes out of fashion. They can be done in various lengths and thicknesses, allowing for personalization. Not only do they protect your hair from environmental stressors, but they also provide a low-maintenance option that can last for several weeks. You can accessorize with beads or colorful thread to add a unique flair.

2. Twists

Two-strand twists are another great option. They can be done with your natural hair or added with extensions for extra length. Twists are versatile and can be styled in updos, buns, or worn down. This style also allows for easy maintenance, as you can unravel them to create beautiful curls once you’re ready to take them down.

3. Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are not only protective but also serve as a trendy hairstyle. This style involves sectioning the hair into small parts and twisting them into knots. Bantu knots can be worn as a style on their own or taken down to reveal beautiful, defined curls. They are perfect for adding texture and are suitable for both casual outings and special occasions.

4. Cornrows

Cornrows are an age-old technique that keeps the hair close to the scalp. They can be styled in various patterns, allowing for creativity while protecting the hair. This low-maintenance style is ideal for those with busy lifestyles and can last several weeks, depending on care.

5. Wigs and Weaves

For those looking to completely change their look while protecting their natural hair, wigs and weaves are fantastic options. They offer a plethora of styles and colors without putting any stress on your natural hair. Just ensure that your hair is well cared for underneath to maintain its health.

In conclusion, protective hairstyles are essential for maintaining the health of natural hair while allowing for creativity and style. From box braids to wigs, there are numerous options to explore. By choosing the right protective style, you can give your hair the break it needs while looking effortlessly chic. Whether you prefer a casual look or something more polished, there’s a protective hairstyle that suits every occasion.

Energy Minister-designate John Jinapor denies private jet claims, slams “Fake Propaganda”

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Energy Minister-designate, John Jinapor, has dismissed claims that he used a €14,000-per-hour private jet to travel to Nigeria on January 18, 2025, to discuss energy issues.

The allegation, shared on a Facebook page named “NPP Projects Bureau,” in the early housr of Sunday, January 19, claimed, “John Jinapor Flies €14,000 per hour Private Jet to Nigeria on January 18, 2025, to Discuss Energy Issues,” accompanied by a picture of a luxurious private jet interior.

BOST Senior Staff Union congratulates newly appointed Managing Director

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By Stanley Senya

Accra, Jan. 19, GNA – The Senior Staff Union of the Bulk Energy Storage and Transportation Company (BOST) has congratulated Mr. Afetsi Awonoor on his appointment as the Managing Director of BOST.

A statement issued and signed by Abdul Jalil Abdul Rahman, Chairman said, “We are confident that Mr. Awonoor’s extensive experience will be invaluable in guiding BOST towards a prosperous future.”

The Senior Staff Union pledged its full support and cooperation to Mr. Awonoor and his leadership team as they work together to achieve the company’s strategic objectives.

“We express our sincere gratitude to His Excellency the President for appointing Mr. Awonoor to this critical role,” it added.

The statement said the appointment demonstrated the President’s commitment to selecting highly qualified individuals to lead key institutions in Ghana.

“We warmly welcome Mr. Awonoor to the BOST family and wish him every success in his new role. We are confident that under his leadership, BOST will continue to play a vital role in Ghana’s development,” it said.

GNA

Several feared dead, others injured in clash between illegal miners and military

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Scores of miners are reported dead, with others injured, following a violent confrontation between local miners and military personnel assigned to provide security for AngloGold Obuasi Gold Mine.

The exact cause of the altercation remains unclear, but preliminary reports suggest the miners had invaded one of the company’s mine shafts, demanding access to a concession for their operations.

During the confrontation, gunshots were reportedly fired, leading to fatalities and injuries.

Unconfirmed reports indicate that about 10 miners lost their lives, with several others injured in the incident, which occurred on Saturday night.

Videos obtained by Citi News reveal disturbing scenes of injured individuals with varying degrees of injuries, while others were seen lifeless.

Additionally, the footage shows vandalised vehicles belonging to AngloGold Obuasi Mine, as well as damage to other facilities.

Tension remains high in the area, as AngloGold Obuasi has faced persistent challenges over the years from local miners invading its concessions.

Instead of finding fault with gov’t let’s focus on building NPP—Dr. Ayew Afriyie

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Member of Parliament for the Effiduase Asokore constituency in the Ashanti region, Dr. Ayew Afriyie has urged the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to focus on building their political party rather than criticizing Mahama in the early stages.

He believes that the NPP, which is in shambles after the 2024 election, needs fixing, and that should be the focus.

I believe this is not a family and friends government – NPP MP reacts to appointment of Asiedu Nketia’s son

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Collins Adomako-Mensah is the Afigya Kwabre North MP Collins Adomako-Mensah is the Afigya Kwabre North MP

The Afigya Kwabre North Member of Parliament, Collins Adomako-Mensah, has criticised the appointment of Dr. Kwaku Asiedu Nketia, son of the NDC’s National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, as the Acting Deputy CEO of the Minerals Income Investment Fund.

In response to the announcement of the appointments of Acting CEOs and Managing Directors for several state institutions, Adomako-Mensah expressed concerns about the potential nepotism within the ruling National Democratic Congress government.

According to him, Dr. Asiedu Nketia’s father, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, is a board member of the Parliamentary Service Board, raising concerns about his father’s position within the cabinet.

He, however, sarcastically acknowledged Dr. Kwaku Asiedu Nketia’s appointment, stating that he was deserving of the position and even more qualified to take on such responsibility at the minerals institution.

“Congratulations to Dr. Kwaku Asiedu Nketia on your appointment as Deputy CEO of Minerals Income Investment Fund. A well-deserved post. You are more than qualified. Your father Asiedu Nketia is the Chairman of the ruling NDC and Board member of the Parliamentary Service Board. As Chairman your dad will also sit in cabinet. I sincerely believe that this is not family and friends. Don’t you love Ghana?” he posted on X (formerly Twitter) on January 18, 2025.

His sarcastic response to the appointment seems to reflect the NDC’s earlier criticism of the former Akufo-Addo-led government for running a ‘family and friends’ government, suggesting that they may now be perceived as engaging in similar practices.

His criticism follows President John Dramani Mahama’s appointment of several NDC members to lead various state institutions, including Dr. Kwaku Asiedu Nketia, who is also the National Vice Chairman of the NDC Youth Working Committee.

Other notable appointments include Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the NDC, who has been appointed as the CEO of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company, and Wisdom Yayra Koku Deku, the Deputy Director of IT and Elections for the NDC, who has been appointed as the Acting CEO of the National Identification Authority (NIA).

See his post below;

MAG/EK

Meanwhile, find out why K.T. Hammond has dragged Captain Smart to court below:

Ghanaian photojournalist Pious Ali shares his political journey in U.S.

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Ghanaian photojournalist, Pious Ali Ghanaian photojournalist, Pious Ali

Ghanaian photojournalist, Pious Ali with the defunct People and Places newspaper, known as P and P, has shared his remarkable journey in the United States of America (USA), detailing his rise in community leadership and politics since moving abroad in search of greener pastures.

In an exclusive interview with Classfmonline.com, Ali recounted how his work in community building, leadership, and education paved the way for his entry into U.S. politics.

According to him, he made history in 2013 when he was elected to the School Board of the City of Maine, making him the first Ghanaian to be elected to public office in the U.S.

He also became the first African Muslim to achieve such a milestone in the state.

“My election to the school board was a turning point, as it allowed me to contribute to shaping the education system in my community,” he said.

Building on his political journey, Ali contested and won the position of Assistant Councilor in 2016.

His passion for leadership and public service later led him to run for Mayor in 2023, though he was unsuccessful in that bid.

Despite this, his vast institutional knowledge and leadership experience earned him a place as a City Councilor, and he was later appointed Standby Mayor.

Explaining his role, Ali stated that a Standby Mayor is responsible for taking over the duties of the Mayor in the event that the elected Mayor is unable to perform their responsibilities as required by law.

“Being a Standby Mayor means stepping in when needed to ensure continuity in leadership and governance,” he explained.

Ali’s story highlights the growing influence of Ghanaians in diaspora politics and serves as an inspiration for others seeking to make a difference in their communities abroad.

Profile

A dedicated public servant, an assertive and pragmatic leader with a diversified skill set in community organizing, activism, and civic engagement, Pious is the founding Director of Portland-based Portland Empowered a program that creates opportunities for Students and families to engage their school and work with them to create an equitable learning environment through Racial Equity Lense.

He’s worked as a Youth and Community Engagement Specialist at the University of Southern Maine’s Muskie School of Public Service (Portland Empowered) and has spent the better part of his career focused on community engagement.

He has created a meaningful and ongoing dialogue across cultural, ethnic, socioeconomic, and faith-based barriers.

Prior to joining the Muskie School, Pious worked with the city of Portland’s refugee services and spent many summers working as a facilitator for Seeds of Peace, a summer programme which builds relationships and leadership skills among youth from regions of conflict.

He also worked as a site coordinator for the Peer Leader Programme at what is now the Opportunity Alliance in Portland, Maine, and as an Education and Community Engagement Coordinator at the Portland branch of the NAACP.

Ali is the first African-born Muslim American to be elected to a public office in Maine, becoming a member of the city’s elected Board of Public Education in 2013.

He also founded the erstwhile Maine Interfaith Youth Alliance and Co-founded the King Fellows, a Portland-based youth group dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for youth through leadership and civic engagement based on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Ali is an alumnus of the Institute for Civic Leadership (known as Lift360), and in 2015 he was named Lift360’s Most Distinguished Alumnus.

He’s received other recognition for his work including the Gerda Haas Award for Excellence in Holocaust and Human Rights Education & Leadership in 2017 by the Holocaust and Human Rights Center of Maine, and The Watering Can Award in 2019 from Maine Initiatives. Pious has served and continues to serve on many advisory groups and boards of directors, including Rippleffect, YMCA of Southern Maine, Greater Portland METRO, and the Greater Portland Council of Governments

A native of Ghana, Pious worked as a photojournalist for a range of print publications.

He migrated to the United States of America, first to New York City, and has called Maine his home since 2002 where he lives with his two children.

You can also watch as Dominic Ayine calls for Whistleblower Agencies in every district to fight corruption effectively

LIVESTREAMED: United Showbiz on UTV

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The Saturday, January 18, 2025, edition of UTV’s United Showbiz programme is live with Ola Michael discharging his duties as sit-in host.

Today’s edition of the entertainment show is live with panelists discussing the major entertainment issues of the week.

Kwaku Manu and George Lutterodt have been billed as pundits for the show.

Bullgod, Vida Adutwumwaa, Nana Romeo and Ziga are also on the bill to bring some nuance to the conversations about the respective issues.

Watch the livestream below:

Security Analyst defends President Mahama over use of Ibrahim Mahama’s private jet for official duties

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President Mahama used the Dzata private jet for his official travels President Mahama used the Dzata private jet for his official travels

Security analyst Anthony Acquaye has criticised those attacking President John Dramani Mahama for traveling in his brother’s private jet instead of the official presidential jet.

In a release dated January 18, 2025, Acquaye explained that the decision made by President Mahama to use a privately owned jet was ‘driven by a commitment to ensuring his own safety and, by extension, the security and stability of Ghana’.

While acknowledging the critics’ concerns, the security analyst mentioned several factors that might have influenced the president’s decision to use his brother’s private jet.

He suggested that, since no official confirmation regarding the full operational readiness, security, and technical assessment had been provided by the relevant authorities, the use of the presidential jet could have potentially compromised the president’s security.

“… As against the reality that the military squadron in charge of the presidential jet has not provided an official confirmation of its full operational readiness, when in such circumstances, using the presidential jet would have introduced significant security and operational risks, potentially leading to disastrous consequences for both President Mahama and Ghana as a whole.

“It is crucial for critics to understand that in matters of national security, particularly on the safety of the first gentleman of the land, no risks should be entertained. Therefore, any decision involving the presidential jet, which is an extremely valuable national asset, requires rigorous security, intelligence, and technical assessment. This is a standard procedure to ensure the aircraft’s full readiness before any mission. Any absence of such clearance would make it reckless and irresponsible to fly in the presidential jet, as it would expose the president to potential threats,” he explained.

He also pointed out that no official communication has been provided regarding an updated airworthiness report, further justifying Mahama’s decision.

Acquaye added, “it is also important for critics to recognize that flying the presidential jet without an updated airworthiness report would violate established aviation safety protocols. Such a violation dramatically increases the risk of an in-flight emergency, whether due to mechanical failure or other unforeseen issues. This is a situation that no responsible government or leader would ever entertain, as the consequences could be far-reaching and catastrophic.”

He continued, “In light of these considerations, it is clear that President Mahama’s decision to use his brother’s private jet instead of the official presidential aircraft was driven by a commitment to ensuring his own safety and, by extension, the security and stability of Ghana. Any criticism of this decision that fails to take these critical factors into account is not only misplaced but also shows a lack of understanding of the complex security risks involved. The decision to use an alternative aircraft with a confirmed security clearance was a necessary and responsible step in safeguarding national interests and ensuring the President’s safety.”

Acquaye urged the president’s critics to prioritise his safety and that of the nation, emphasising that any disaster could impact the stability and governance of the country, and to set aside political considerations.

MAG/EK

Meanwhile, watch as John Mahama assures Ghanaians to be decisive and swift in his actions

NDC’s Youth Committee Vice Chairman appointed Deputy CEO of MIIF

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Dr. Kwaku Asiedu Nketia has been appointed as Deputy CEO of Minerals Income Investment Fund Dr. Kwaku Asiedu Nketia has been appointed as Deputy CEO of Minerals Income Investment Fund

Dr. Kwaku Asiedu Nketia, son of the National Democratic Congress National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has been appointed by President John Dramani Mahama as the Acting Deputy CEO of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF).

His appointment was announced in a release by the presidency on January 18, 2025, alongside the appointments of other individuals who have been named acting CEOs and Managing Directors of various institutions.

Dr. Asiedu Nketia is also the National Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Youth Working Committee.

The MIIF, a government agency created to maximize the value derived from Ghana’s mineral wealth, plays a crucial role in ensuring the country’s natural resources contribute to sustainable economic benefits for all citizens.

As Acting Deputy CEO, Dr. Asiedu Nketia will support the drive to manage mineral royalties and investments efficiently, helping to ensure that Ghana’s mineral resources generate long-term value for the nation.

MAG/EK

Meanwhile, find out why K.T. Hammond has dragged Captain Smart to court below:

I would like to become a prophet after my football career – Joseph Paintsil

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Black Stars and LA Galaxy winger, Joseph Paintsil Black Stars and LA Galaxy winger, Joseph Paintsil

The Black Stars and LA Galaxy winger, Joseph Paintsil has expressed his aspiration to pursue a calling as a prophet after retiring from his football career.

Speaking on GHOne TV with Monica Bukari, the talented winger shared his aspiration to become a prophet, revealing his deep passion for worshipping God, a practice he began at a very young age.

“I just want to be a prophet when God calls me, I want to preach the gospel at the end of my career, if I’m being called because I’m not going to call myself. I really want to do that at the end of my career if God steps in”.

Paintsil has been a member of the Black Stars squad through difficult periods, including back-to-back group-stage eliminations at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021 and 2023.

Since joining the first team, he has earned 15 national caps and provided two assists.

In December 2024, Paintsil played a crucial role in LA Galaxy’s remarkable triumph in the MLS Playoffs final, scoring a first-half goal that sealed the club’s first MLS title in a decade.

You can also watch the latest edition of Sports Debate below: