President John Dramani Mahama has assured the chiefs and people of Bawku in the Upper East Region of his determination to ensure permanent peace in Bawku to drive socio-economic development.

“During the campaign, I stated that if God granted our desires and I was elected President, bringing peace to Bawku was going to be one of my number one priorities”, President Mahama stated during a visit to the Bawku Naba, ZugraanNabaAsigriAbugragoAzoka II, Overlord of Kusaug Traditional Area on Tuesday.

“So, today is exactly one week since I was sworn in at the Black Stars Square and it is my first major assignment outside Accra I decided to come and assure you that we are going to work very hard to make sure that we bring peace back to Bawku”.

The visit formed part of the President’s commitment to engaging the feuding factions and relevant stakeholders, aimed at resolving the protracted Bawku Chieftaincy conflict that had lasted for decades.

At least 40 people have lost their lives since the conflict re-emerged in October 2024 and at least 240 lives have been lost since November 2021.

Speaking to the residents in Bawku after a closed-door meeting with the Bawku Naba, the President said Bawku was known for its peaceful atmosphere that supported economic activities and contributed to the country’s development.

He said during his time as President, Bawku and its surrounding areas were very peaceful and everyone went about their duties and pledged to work to restore that lost glory.

“Sadly, the situation has occurred again and I know that for the last three years, you have not been able to sleep, you have been living under stress and so the priority of our government is to bring peace back to Bawku so that everybody can go about their duties without fear of harassment”, he stressed.

The President indicated that appointments to the various security ministries and agencies would be made this week to facilitate peace in the area and other conflict areas in the country.

“So within this week we will do the appointments of the Minister of Defence, Minister of the Interior, the National Security Advisor, the National Security Coordinator, the National Intelligence Bureau Director and all the others and when these appointments are made, I am going to charge them to make Bawku one of the number one priorities to attend to and deal with,” he indicated.

President Mahama said he was abreast with the issues in Bawku and the adverse effects on livelihoods and appealed to the chiefs and people of the area to be patient as the government worked to bring permanent peace back to the area.

“From here, we will be going to the Nayiri to deliver a message to him. We cannot live in a country where our people do not feel safe, our people must feel safe to travel to whenever they want and at whatever time and not have people shooting at them so you can be sure that we will deal with these situations so that we all can have the peace we need so that our traditional areas can progress “, he added.

The Bawku Naba expressed gratitude to the President for the visit and added that the move signified the importance the President attached to the area and the security situation in the area.

He assured the President of his support and that of his subjects on the roadmap to attaining sustainable and lasting peace and driving the development of the area.

The President was accompanied by Felix Ofosu Kwakye, Acting Spokesperson to the President and Mr Mahama Ayariga, Member of Parliament for the Bawku Central Constituency.

The President would later pay a similar visit to the Nayiri, Naa Bohagu Abdulai Mahami Sheriga, Overlord of Mamprugu in Nalerigu in the North East Region.

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 Minority in Parliament has expressed worry over the potential exclusion of private Senior High Schools (SHS) from the Free SHS programme.

They have therefore called on President John Dramani Mahama and Finance Minister-designate, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson to honour their campaign promise to include private schools in the programme.

At a press conference on Wednesday, January 15, Dr Gideon Boako, Member of Parliament for Tano North, criticised the Minister-designate’s dismissive attitude during his vetting on January 13.

Dr. Boako pointed out that Dr. Ato Forson was evasive when questioned about extending the Free SHS programme to private institutions –  a policy commitment outlined in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) manifesto.

The Minority has urged the Finance Minister-designate to clarify his position and fulfil the campaign promise, ensuring equitable access to education for all Ghanaian students, including those in private institutions.

“When asked about the Free SHS programme and whether it would be extended to private schools as indicated in the NDC manifesto, the Minister Designate, in a very dismissive manner, asked whether those private schools write WASSCE exams.

“First, it was shocking to observe the minister designate feign ignorance of the fact that there are many private SHS that write the WASSCE. We can all recall that during the election campaign, President Mahama met the leadership of the private senior high schools and promised to include private schools in the free SHS programme.

“If President Mahama and the NDC knew that no private SHS writes WASSCE exams, why did they promise to include them in the Free SHS program? For the information of the Minister and President Mahama, there are private SHS in Ghana that write WASSCE, and they are anxiously waiting to be included in the Free SHS programme. What is the finance minister designate waiting for? Was this not their campaign promise? What informed the promises? Didn’t they do the numbers first?”

Vetting: Ato Forson was evasive, inconsistent and lacked clarity of thought – Minority

…..
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!

Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x

No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital

TikTok will be banned in the US on 19 January – unless the Supreme Court accepts a last ditch legal bid from its Chinese owner, ByteDance, that to do so would be unconstitutional.

But even if the country’s highest judicial authority agrees with the lower courts – and Congress – that the platform is a threat to national security will that actually stop Americans using it?

Will there be ways to bypass the ban – or could president-elect Donald Trump find a way to stop a law he says he opposed to, even if the courts uphold it?

And whatever happens to TikTok, who stands to benefit from the uncertainty clouding its future?

Can people still use TikTok even if it’s banned?

The most likely way the US would ban TikTok is to order app stores, such as the Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store, to make it unavailable for download in that region.

US lawmakers have already told tech firms to be ready to remove the app from their stores if a ban comes into force.

That would mean people could no longer use a legitimate means to access TikTok – though it would also mean people who’ve already got it would still have it on their phones.

Because the app would not be publicly available anymore, new updates could no longer be delivered to users in the US – which would make the app buggier and, eventually, unusable.

Not to mention that many updates are provided to fix security holes in apps, so if TikTok stopped getting updates that could present hackers with millions of devices to target.

Of course, there are ways around such a ban.

There are already many videos circulating on TikTok informing users how to use a VPN (virtual private network) – a way of making it appear as if you are in another region.

The region of app stores can also be changed on most devices, so anyone can theoretically access apps from other countries – though this may cause other problems, not to mention likely breaking terms of service agreements.

It is also possible to install apps downloaded from the internet by modifying a device – which may break copyright law – and comes with its own risks. However the government has also anticipated this so is also proposing to ban “internet hosting services” from giving people access to the app.

So if the ban took this kind of form it seems likely that those who are determined to use TikTok after it comes into effect will be able to do so – but it won’t be the experience they are used to.

How else could TikTok be banned?

There are still other routes available to the government down the road – for example, after India banned TikTok in 2020, it ordered internet providers to block access to the app altogether.

And even if people did use a VPN, there are still ways TikTok could theoretically judge whether a person is based in the US – and then simply present them with a screen saying the app is not available in their country.

It remains to be seen whether TikTok would decide to assist the government in its own ban – but it is being reported by Reuters that it plans to do so.

TikTok’s own lawyer told the Supreme Court that he believes the app will “go dark” in the US unless it rules in its favour.

The complexity of the issue means even the experts are unclear about what happens next.

Professor Milton L. Mueller of the Georgia Institute of Technology – who filed a legal brief in support of TikTok – said a lack of clarity around how far the US could extend its authority to enforce the law makes knowing what technically happens if a ban goes ahead difficult to determine.

But he said what was clear was the impact it would have on users and the internet itself.

“It would totally legitimise the fragmentation of the internet along national or jurisdictional boundaries,” he said.

Will Trump still be able to intervene?

Trump has been clear he does not want the law to come into force, asking the Supreme Court to delay its implementation while he seeks a “political solution.”

But, should the justices uphold it, Trump does not have the power to overturn the law, which would come into effect the day before he returns to office.

But he could simply tell the Department of Justice not to enforce it.

The government would be effectively telling Apple and Google that they won’t be punished for continuing to allow access to TikTok, meaning the law would remain in place but would essentially be redundant.

Obviously, the firms might be uncomfortable about breaking the law even if they’ve been told it’s fine – as it would be effectively requiring them to take the president’s word for it that they won’t face punishment.

What platforms could people turn to instead?

TikTok says it has 170 million users in the US who, on average, spent 51 minutes per day on the app in 2024.

Ban TikTok or make it less usable and that creates a huge opportunity for its big tech rivals says Jasmine Enberg, analyst at Insider Intelligence.

“Meta-owned Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts, owned by Google, are the most natural fits for displaced users, creators, and advertisers,” she says.

Facebook could benefit too, though Ms Enberg says, in common with all Meta platforms, the controversial policy changes announced by boss Mark Zuckerberg could potentially lessen its appeal.

Users bring advertisers – so a ban could be a big financial boost to those platforms.

“Chief Marketing Officers who we’ve spoken with confirmed that they will divert their media dollars to Meta and Google if they can no longer advertise on TikTok – this is the same behaviour we saw in India when they banned TikTok in 2020”, said Forrester principal analyst Kelsey Chickering.

Lemon8, which is also owned by ByteDance, would have been an obvious place for people to go following a ban – but the law stipulates it also applies to other apps owned or operated by the firm. This means Lemon8 is probably also going to face being made inaccessible in the US.

Other potential winners include Twitch, which made its name on hosting livestreams – a popular feature on TikTok. Twitch is well known particularly to gamers, though it continues to grow with other content.

Other Chinese-owned platforms, such as Xiaohongshu – known as RedNote among its US users – have seen rapid growth in the US and the UK.

Still, some suggest no existing app can truly replace TikTok, in particular its feature TikTok Shop, which lets users purchase products directly from videos, and makes a lot of money for US creators.

Craig Atkinson, CEO of digital marketing agency Code3, said there was no direct competitor that people could easily switch to – and notes his agency was signing new contracts with clients to build TikTok Shop campaigns as late as December.

Could a new buyer still emerge?

Up until now, ByteDance has been resolute that no sale of its prize asset in the US is on the table.

But could that change if it is actually banned – and when a president who prides himself on “the art of the deal” returns to the White House?

Potential buyers continue to line up – with Bloomberg News reporting on Tuesday that the firm was looking at a sale to billionaire Elon Musk, though TikTok has since described this as “pure fiction”.

Trump’s former treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin and billionaire businessman Frank McCourt are among those who have previously expressed an interest in buying it.

Mr McCourt, a former owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team, said he had secured $20 billion in verbal commitments from a consortium of investors to bid for TikTok.

There is an even more leftfield – and considerably less serious – proposed owner.

The biggest YouTuber in the world MrBeast has claimed he’s now in the running to make a deal after he had billionaires reaching out to him about it.

Though it may seem like a joke, he has a significant financial incentive to try and save the app – MrBeast has more than 100m followers on TikTok.

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 body of the deceased was found hanging on a ceiling

A 33-year-old man, known only as Kwasi, who allegedly hanged himself in Ahenboboano, a quarter of Berekum in the Bono Region, has left the neighborhood in a state of shock and disbelief.

The body of the deceased was found hanging from the ceiling, tied with an electric iron wire, on the night of Tuesday, January 14, 2024. The police have since retrieved the body and deposited it in a mortuary for preservation.

Mr. Augustine Oppong, the deceased’s friend, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) during a visit to the scene that the deceased resided in Adabokrom in the Bia East District of the Western Region.

According to Oppong, the deceased had been staying with him for a few months while searching for an apartment to move into. He explained that he had left the deceased at home to go to work, and upon his return, he discovered the body hanging in the room. The deceased leaves behind a wife and two children.

A member of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee, Daniel Yao Domelevo, has clarified the team’s mission as a validation exercise rather than an investigative one.

The former Auditor General speaking on Joy News’ Upfront on Wednesday, January 15, explained that the committee’s primary focus is to confirm claims related to state land and property issues, ensuring accurate reporting to President John Mahama.

“What we are doing is essentially a validation mission,” he stated.

“We cannot just sit in our offices, hear claims like those from the Lomotey/Adotey family about their demolished property, and include them in our report without verifying. The presidency might question our findings if there’s no evidence on the ground.”

This clarification comes after the ORAL team visited the North Labone site where a property belonging to the Lomotey/Adotey family was illegally demolished in 2024. During the visit, a family representative recounted their ordeal, detailing the trauma of losing their home, the destruction of valuables, and their ongoing struggle for justice.

Despite a Lands Commission letter admitting to mistakenly allocating the land to a politically connected group responsible for the demolition, the family has neither been compensated nor received adequate security assurances. Instead, they continue to spend significant amounts on private security to protect the site.

Mr Domelevo stressed the importance of distinguishing validation from investigation.

“Validation is simply confirming what exists on the ground. If this were an investigation, we would call all parties, ask questions, and seek answers. For now, we are gathering data to ensure accuracy in our reports,” he said.

When asked whether the committee’s work involves accusations of wrongdoing, Domelevo was unequivocal.

“We are not accusing anyone. Before establishing any guilt, there must be an investigation. My background as an auditor reminds me that preliminary findings often change when rebutted with evidence. Our job is not to accuse but to verify.”

He also addressed confusion between the ORAL Committee’s validation efforts and the investigative actions of other bodies like national security.

“People often confuse our role with that of national security,” Domelevo noted.

“When they move in, they might take actions that go beyond validation, but we have no control over their operations.”

The ORAL team assured the Lomotey/Adotey family that their plight would be captured in a comprehensive report to President Mahama, aiming to bring attention to their loss and advocate for resolution.

Daniel Domelevo’s comments underscore the committee’s commitment to thorough validation and factual reporting, laying the groundwork for potential future investigations or corrective measures in cases involving state properties and land disputes.

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 Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Ghana (FOMWAG) has called on President John Dramani Mahama and Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang to fulfill their promises to the Muslim community.

It stated, “We look forward to both of you accomplishing most, if not all, of your promises to the Muslim community and Ghanaians as a whole.”

In a release issued to the Ghana News Agency on Wednesday in Accra, the Association congratulated the President and Vice President on their ascension to the highest office of the land.

As a women-based organization, the Association particularly congratulated the first female Vice President for the Republic, saying her appointment was historic and well-deserved.

It said, “This milestone is a testament to her unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership, and deep commitment to the progress and well-being of our nation.”

The release noted that her ascension to the highest office of the land was not only a personal achievement but also a monumental victory for women across Ghana.

“Your success serves as an inspiration, not only for women in politics but also for young women and girls everywhere, showing that no dream is too big to achieve. It demonstrates that the future of Ghana is one in which women play an integral and decisive role in shaping the nation’s development.”

The Association also congratulated the president and commended him for choosing a woman as his running mate and subsequently Vice President.

“This remarkable achievement as President is a testament to your dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the progress and development of our beloved nation.”

As a key organization advocating for the rights and empowerment of Muslim women in Ghana, FOMWAG expressed excitement about collaborating to build a more inclusive and equitable Ghana for all citizens, where every woman, regardless of background, can realize her full potential.

“We are confident that your tenure will see the advancement of gender-related issues, particularly the promotion of education for girls, women’s economic empowerment, and the strengthening of women’s voices in all sectors of society.”

No more illegal miners are believed to be trapped underground at a gold mine in South Africa, volunteers working with rescue teams have said.

At least 78 bodies and more than 200 survivors have been pulled out since Monday after a court ordered the government to facilitate rescue operations at the mine, the site of one of the most extraordinary tragedies to hit the industry.

Police said they would check that no one was left on Thursday when a rescue cage would be sent down the mine.

The stand-off began in November when the government ordered police to arrest any miner who surfaced, saying it was determined to end illegal mining.

During a visit on Tuesday, the police and mines ministers were insulted and told to leave by an angry crowd that blamed the government for the deaths.

Police said that more than 1,500 miners had come to the surface before the rescue operation began, Reuters news agency reports.

However, others remained underground, either because they feared arrest or were forced to stay there by gangs that controlled the mine.

A South African Police Service spokesman said of the volunteers’ statement that no one was now still underground: “We will rely on the Mine Rescue Service to confirm this with their state-of-the-art equipment that will hopefully be able to give us a picture of what is happening underground.

“The Mine Rescue Service have confirmed that they will send the cage underground in the morning to see if any illegal miners surface with the cage. We cannot say for sure that the operation has been called off at this stage.”

Many mines in South Africa have been abandoned over the last three decades by companies that did not find them economically viable.

The mines have been taken over by gangs, often former employees, that sell minerals they find on the black market.

This includes the mine in Stilfontein, some 145km (90 miles) south-west of the country’s biggest city, Johannesburg, which has been the focus of government efforts to clamp down on the illegal industry.

A rescue cage has been making trips down a shaft to reach scores of miners thought to be at least 2km (1.2 miles) underground.

Many of the survivors had been without food and water since November, leaving them emaciated. They are now receiving medical care.

The authorities say they will be charged with illegal mining, trespassing and contravention of immigration laws, as the majority of the miners are undocumented migrants from neighbouring countries.

“It’s a crime against the economy, it’s an attack on the economy,” Mines Minister Gwede Mantashe said on Wednesday as he defended the hard line taken against the miners.

South Africa relied heavily on miners from countries such as Lesotho and Mozambique before the industry went into decline.

Unemployment in South Africa is currently more than 30% and many former miners say they have little alternative source of income.

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.

Kofi Adomah is currently in a stable condition in Dubai, according to his wife

In a post shared on social media, Miracle Adomah, the wife of journalist Kofi Adomah, gave a crucial update regarding his condition after he was tragically shot in the eye by unknown assailants.

Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support from well-wishers, she wrote: “Sorry I can’t respond to the numerous WhatsApp calls on my phone and that of my husband now. Currently, he is stable, and we hope for the best. Thanks for the care.”

This message followed an earlier report by MyNewsGH, which initially broke the devastating news.

The story was originally shared by fellow journalist and content creator, Afia Pokua, also known as Vim Lady.

Afia Pokua’s message on social media shared the alarming news of Kofi Adomah’s injury, revealing that he had been shot in the eye.

She requested prayers for his recovery but offered limited details on the circumstances surrounding the attack.

The incident left many in shock, and questions about the attack continue to linger, as authorities have yet to confirm any further details.

What remains certain is the strong support Kofi has received from both the media community and the general public, with many reaching out to his family and expressing concern for his well-being.

Despite the uncertainty of the situation, Mrs. Adomah’s latest post brings a sense of relief to those who had been anxiously awaiting any news.

She confirmed that while the injury was grave, Kofi is currently stable, and they remain hopeful for his recovery.

See the post below:

Meanwhile, watch the 3-way vetting clash between Afenyo-Markin, Ahiafor, Armah-Kofi Buah below:

As part of ongoing negotiations with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), President John Dramani Mahama and his administration have been urged by the Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU) of TUC (Ghana) to complete the implementation of the revised terms of service.

In an appeal, General Secretary King James Azortibah urged the President to expedite the implementation of the conditions of service.

He claimed that a nationwide strike in November 2024 was caused by stalled negotiations, which was later called off after the FWSC promised swift action for the affected institutions.

TEWU further appealed to President Mahama to ensure that public universities discourage the formation of tribal unions.

“TEWU of TUC (Ghana) has some urgent pending issues with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), including the delayed conclusion and implementation of the reviewed conditions of service for members in the Ghana Education Service (GES), Ghana Museums and Monuments Board, the Ghana Library Authority (GLA), as well as public and technical universities. The gift we want from the new government for our members, in respect of the above-mentioned institutions, is to ensure a timely and speedy conclusion of negotiations on the long-overdue reviewed conditions of service for them.”

“TEWU of TUC (Ghana) would like to urge the new government not to see labor as an afterthought when taking major socio-economic policy decisions, such as any review of the Free Senior High School Programme, the 1992 Constitution, or Ghana-IMF agreements, among others. Labor’s input must be sought and seriously factored into any such future reviews because the cumulative negative effects are borne by Ghanaian workers in both the formal and informal sectors.”

“It is the expectation of TEWU of TUC (Ghana) that the new government will denounce the actions of certain management members in public universities who are bent on promoting the formation of rival trade unions for parochial interests. The relevant state agencies must bring such officers, who are pursuing these illegalities, to order.”

Meanwhile, Watch as religious leaders pray for Mahama and his family’s well being

A survey by Joy News through its social media handles has passed a damning verdict on former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, for being largely responsible for the NPP’s stunning defeat in the December 2024 election.

The survey, which asked Ghanaians to share their views on factors which contributed to the NPP’s shocking defeat, had majority of respondents pointing fingers at immediate past President Nana Akufo-Addo, and also blaming his government’s harsh economic policies, nepotism, corruption and arrogance of some of his appointees, as key reasons for the defeat of NPP in both the Presidential and Parliamentary election.

Akufo-Addo to Blame The most common theme among respondents was former President Akufo-Addo, who was widely accused of not doing enough, thereby, getting the NPP, it’s flagbearer and parliamentary candidates to pay dearly for his sins.

Specifically, many of those who commented, slammed President Akufo-Addo for endorsing harsh and insensitive economic policies such as e-levy, betting tax, covid-19 tax and poor debt management.

For these policies, the former President was accused of shielding his cousin, former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, who was also accused by some respondents of running down the economy, before he was eventually removed, albeit belatedly.

Nana Akufo-Addo was also accused of exhibiting arrogant posture to Ghanaians, and many referred to his orders to chiefs to stand up to greet him, as acts which angered many Ghanaians, who chose to refuse to vote for the NPP because of that.

Many other respondents also blamed the President for causing apathy in the party, with his refusal to listen to internal advice and effect changes in his government on time, across all levels of his administration, to spread opportunities to other party members who many grassroots members look up to.

Refusing to remove Ken Ofori-Atta as Finance Minister, notwithstanding calls by overwhelming number of NPP MPs and ordinary Ghanaians, was cited to buttress the claim.

Exorbitant Taxes

Apart from President Akufo-Addo being blamed directly, many of the respondents also slammed some of his government’s policies, which they said contributed to bringing hardship on Ghanaians.

Central to this were taxes such as e-levy, covid-19 taxes, betting tax as well as the government’s debt management policy.

Both the President and former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, were up for harsh criticism over these policies, which the respondents said made the NPP unpopular among Ghanaians, including the NPP’s own supporters.

Arrogant Appointees, Corruption & Clearing Agent Some of the respondents also had issues with government appointees, accusing some of them of being arrogant and inaccessible.

This, they observed, contributed to alienating them from the people and causing disaffection for the NPP.

Corruption also played a part, with many highlighting a number of scandals of the Akufo-Addo government. On corruption, many revisited the issue of labelling former President Akufo-Addo as a “clearing agent”, a nickname the President earned for clearing a number of his appointees accused of corrupt acts.

Others Respondents also blamed the Akufo-Addo government’s neglect of key projects in its strongholds, especially in the Ashanti Region, as well as parts of the Western and the Bono/Ahafo regions.

In the Ashanti Region for instance, many of the respondents faulted former President Akufo-Addo for not prioritising major projects in the Ashanti Region, especially the Suame interchange.

To sum it up, most of the respondents who commented blamed former President Akufo-Addo’s government for the defeat of Dr. Bawumia, as well as the unprecedented overwhelming majority of NPP Parliamentary candidates across the country.

Below are some of the comments:

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.

Tags:  

IMF Boss, Kristalina Georgieva [L] and Dr Amin Adam

The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Ms. Kristalina Georgieva, has showered praises on Ghana’s immediate past Finance Minister, Dr. Amin Adam.

She commended him for his exceptional leadership and significant contributions to Ghana’s economic stability during his tenure.

The IMF boss made these remarks in a letter bidding farewell to the former minister.

She particularly lauded Dr. Adam for his commitment to the successful implementation of Ghana’s $3 billion IMF-supported program.

The program, she explained, helped restore Ghana’s macroeconomic stability and ensured debt sustainability.

“You have had a profound impact on Ghana and its citizens,” the IMF boss stated. “Your efforts have not only strengthened Ghana’s economy but also inspired confidence in the country’s future.”

According to her, Dr. Adam contributed immensely to ensuring long-term growth for the country and positively impacted Ghana’s financial outlook during the IMF-backed reforms.

“I have every confidence that you will continue to make a meaningful difference, particularly as you assume your role as a re-elected Member of Parliament. Your passion for public service and commitment to positive change will serve as a beacon of inspiration for many,” Ms. Georgieva added.

Meanwhile, Watch as religious leaders pray for Mahama and his family’s well being

The recall is intended to avoid passport misuse

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been instructed by the Office of the President to recall all service and diplomatic passports that were issued during the previous government.

This action is a part of the government’s efforts to maintain the integrity of Ghana’s diplomatic engagements and ensure that official travel papers are used appropriately.

The recall is intended to avoid passport misuse and ensure conformity with both national and international norms, according to a statement issued by Secretary to the President Callistus Mahama, Ph.D.

The statement said, “This exercise is in line with the Government’s commitment to ensuring the appropriate use and administration of official travel documents.”

KA

Meanwhile, Watch as religious leaders pray for Mahama and his family’s well being

A collision between a bus and a truck killed 19 people in Senegal on Monday, as the authorities faced resistance from transporters against new measures adopted after another deadly accident just a week earlier.

“Yet another fatal accident on our roads at the entrance to Ngeun Sarr. 19 human lives lost,” tweeted President Macky Sall.

The crash near Louga (north) also left 25 people injured, Colonel Papa Ange Michel Diatta, a national fire department official, told AFP.

On January 8, more than 40 people were killed when two buses collided in the center of the country, bringing to light the well-known problems of the road in Senegal as in many African countries: dilapidated and dangerous vehicles, reckless driving, and widespread corruption among officials in charge of enforcing the law or passing driving licenses.

A witness interviewed by the private radio station RFM reported that on Monday morning the bus swerved to avoid a donkey, an explanation that was not confirmed. Many cattle roam on or near roads in Senegal.

The January 8 tragedy, blamed on a burst tire, has sparked a wave of criticism against the authorities for their inability to enforce the rules of the road, as well as regulations on the condition of vehicles.

In the wake of this accident, one of the deadliest in Senegal in recent years, the government announced some 20 measures. Many of these measures have been criticized as being unenforceable by transport professionals, the main people concerned.

The head of state reaffirmed the need for them on Twitter. The accident in the north “highlights the need to strengthen road safety measures,” he said.

Many professionals have deemed the measures out of step with economic realities or lifestyles, for example, the ban on buses and minibuses travelling at night, or the ban on importing used tires.

– “Big jam” –

Buses carrying passengers as well as goods are an essential means of transport between localities, for want of alternatives. Buses are commonly converted to increase capacity and fitted with roof racks that are often overloaded to the point of threatening to handle.

Not only do passengers like to carry bulky items, but the racks are a source of additional revenue for transport operators.

Some of the transport unions have announced an indefinite strike starting Tuesday in protest.

“Regulation of the sector: the State in a big jam”, was the headline on Monday in the newspaper Le Quotidien.

The authorities quickly backed down on the ban on equipping buses with luggage racks and granted a one-year exemption.

Another reason for confrontation between the government and transporters, in an inflationary context, prices. Minibus operators have just announced an increase in their fares in the Dakar region, arguing that the government has recently cut fuel subsidies and increased the price of diesel and super fuel by 100 CFA francs (15 euro cents).

The government refused to accept this increase, which it said was illegal because it had not been approved by the authorities.

Road accidents officially kill 700 people each year in Senegal, a country of more than 17 million people.

In 2019, Senegal had a road death rate of 24 per 100,000 inhabitants, and sub-Saharan Africa 27 per 100,000, compared with a rate of 6 per 100,000 in the European Union and 2 in Switzerland, according to the World Bank.

UNITED NATIONS, Jan. 15, (Xinhua/GNA) — The United Nations and aid partners are responding to deadly Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, battering southeast Africa with high winds and heavy rain, UN humanitarians said on Monday.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said the UN partners began working with local authorities after the cyclone made landfall on Saturday in northern Madagascar, the same area hit by deadly Cyclone Chido nearly a month ago. OCHA’s latest ReliefWeb status alert reported that Dikeledi’s center was over the Mozambique Channel, approximately 75 km east of the coast of Nampula province in northeastern Mozambique. It passed just south of Mayotte, the island where Cyclone Chido inflicted heavy death and destruction.

The government of Madagascar reported that three people were killed and more than 350 displaced to several temporary sites. More than 5,200 people were directly affected, nearly 1,300 homes flooded, and five health centers were damaged. Humanitarian partners distributed water treatment supplies and water, sanitation and hygiene kits.

OCHA said the world body and humanitarian partners in Mozambique continue to assist those affected by Chido, which killed more than 170 people in Madagascar, Mayotte and Malawi.

The World Food Programme reported reaching more than 190,000 Cyclone Chido victims in five districts with one-week food rations as of Saturday. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and its partners distributed more than 800 kits of core relief items to more than 4,000 people. UNHCR also said it stepped up efforts to assess protection concerns in parts of Cabo Delgado province where displaced people are sheltering.

Following Cyclone Chido, they lacked shelter or sufficient access to clean water and sanitation facilities. The loss of livelihoods, particularly in agriculture, has compounded their challenges in rebuilding their lives.

The United Nations and its partners aim to provide humanitarian assistance to more than 400,000 people affected by Cyclone Chido, but to do that, they urgently need additional funding, OCHA said.
GNA

Barcelona backed up their Spanish Super Cup triumph by thrashing Real Betis to cruise into the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey.

Teenager Lamine Yamal scored one and assisted another as Barca netted five goals for the second consecutive game, having beaten rivals Real Madrid 5-2 in Saudi Arabia on Sunday.

Gavi gave the hosts a third-minute lead before Yamal, 17, set up Jules Kounde for Barcelona’s second.

After the restart Raphinha, Ferran Torres and Yamal all found the target.

Real Betis scored a late consolation goal through Vitor Roque’s 84th-minute penalty but were soundly beaten.

La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid also advanced into the last eight with a comfortable 4-0 win at second-tier Elche, with struggling Leganes and Getafe also beating lower-league opposition to go through.

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.

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.

Dr. Samuel Amoh Tobin, is the second individual to own the Warrior King Watches

Renowned Ghanaian pharmacist, esteemed businessman, philanthropist, and chairman of the Tobinco Group of Companies, Dr. Samuel Amoh Tobin, is the second individual to own the Warrior King Watches 18k gold pièce unique timepiece, following the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

Warrior King timepieces, crafted by Ghanaian horologist Patrick Amofah, celebrate Ghana’s rich history through a series of limited-edition watch models, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

According to the CEO, the 18k gold Warrior King pièce unique is exclusively owned by only two individuals in the world: His Royal Majesty, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, and Dr. Amoh Tobin.

The custom-made gold timepiece was presented to Dr. Tobin as a gift by his younger brother, Dr. Peter Ebo Tobin, at his 60th birthday celebration. Speaking about the watch, Mr. Patrick Amofah revealed that it was crafted with the utmost precision, passion, and reverence.

“This timepiece stands as a symbol of Dr. Tobin’s extraordinary journey and his commitment to touching lives. In recognition, Warrior King Watches is proud to provide a lifetime service warranty on this timepiece.”

This Warrior King pièce unique was crafted from premium materials and adorned with intricate designs symbolizing Tobinco’s journey of resilience, strength, and dedication to both business and philanthropy.

Valued for its exceptional precision and luxurious details, the watch reflects the qualities that have defined Tobinco’s legacy.

Dr. Tobin, an influential figure in Ghana’s business landscape and the pharmaceutical industry, has built a reputation as a visionary leader and philanthropist. His work has expanded access to essential medicines across Ghana and other African nations, positively impacting countless lives.

Warrior King Watches has earned accolades for its innovation and commitment to excellence, positioning itself as a significant player in the luxury watch industry.

The brand has garnered respect for integrating African aesthetics with world-class craftsmanship. Warrior King Watches uses premium materials and intricate designs, aiming to provide a distinct blend of luxury and African heritage to watch enthusiasts globally.

The brand continues to expand its reach in the luxury market while maintaining its commitment to quality and cultural representation. Recent recognition from international fashion outlets, including features in GQ magazine, has further solidified its status as a must-have luxury brand.

Warrior King Watches has positioned itself as a leading luxury brand in Ghana, with plans for further expansion into global markets.

The company’s commitment to excellence has attracted high-profile endorsements, including a bespoke piece crafted for the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

GA

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

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has released a list of specific individuals and entities required to return Diplomatic and Service Passports issued during the tenure of the Akufo-Addo administration.

This move, directed by the Office of the President, is aimed at ensuring compliance with current eligibility criteria and safeguarding the integrity of these official travel documents.

This comes after President John Mahama, through his Executive Secretary, directed the recall of the passports which he said was necessary to ensure their proper use, prevent misuse, and protect Ghana’s integrity.

The President, therefore, directed the Chief Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to notify the diplomatic passport holders, set a deadline for their return, and conduct a thorough review of the documents.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry on Wednesday, January 15, the recall affects several groups, including former ministers and their spouses, former MPs regardless of political affiliation, and members of the Council of State and their spouses.

It also applies to retired justices of the superior and lower courts, former regional ministers, metropolitan, municipal, and district chief executives, and chief executive officers of state institutions, along with chairs and members of boards.

Other affected categories include officials of the National Cathedral Project, former political ambassadors and their dependents, as well as businesspeople, entrepreneurs, religious leaders, traditional leaders, and other former government functionaries.

The directive extends to any individual holding official passports but not currently serving in an official capacity as defined under Sections 6 and 7 of the Passports and Travel Certificates Act, 1967 (NLCD 155).

The statement said that all affected individuals are required to return their Diplomatic and Service Passports to the Legal and Treaties Bureau of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by Friday, January 24, 2025.

The Ministry noted that this measure is necessary to prevent misuse of these official travel documents and to uphold the standards associated with their issuance.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs counts on the cooperation of all holders of Diplomatic and Service Passports to undertake this important exercise as directed,” the statement added.

Read the full statement below

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.

By Lydia Kukua Asamoah  

Accra,  Jan 15 – To set the tone for 2025 business year, Promasidor Ghana (PGH), has held a two-day Extended Leadership and Commercial Conference in Accra. 

The conference enabled the company to discussed the take-off of its second  strategic objective out of its five steps business plan outlined, dubbed: “Triad 5:85.” 

 The sessions, on the theme: “Doing the Right Thing: Focusing on Controllable Factors as a Lever for Sustained Continued High Growth”, brought together the leadership team, managers and team leads  of the company nationwide to ideate.  

Mr Festus Tettey, Promasidor Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ECOWAS, excluding Nigeria,  said 2025 is a year of new beginnings, bringing fresh opportunities for growth and innovation to the business. 

“For 2025 to be a different and positive one, we need to be different, taking learnings from 2024 to better our business,” he told his team. 

Mr. Tettey also called on the team to be focused, disciplined, determined and to apply consistent efforts to achieve the company’s 2025 objectives. 

 “Let us focus on these controllable factors to grow our business to greater heights and to continue to enrich the lives of our consumers through the quality products we produce as well as the exceptional experiences we create for them.” 

Mr Samir Sadaoui, PGH’s CEO, expressed his eagerness to begin  the year’s adventure with all PGH staff to build on the incredible accomplishments of 2024.  

“I have no doubt that we can achieve much more if we stick together and remain committed to our vision and strategy to drive growth.”  

Reiterating how each employee’s role was important in making PGH an enviable company. Mr. Sadaoui used the platform to thank all employees for the support and unrivaled dedication that had enabled Promasidor Ghana’s story thus far.  

He said: “I want to thank all employees for the support. I believe in the power of teamwork, and I am certain that with your support and commitment, we will turn challenges into opportunities and ambitions into achievements.” 

On the Commercial Conference front, Mr Abiodun Ayodeji, the Commercial Director of PGH, expressed sincere gratitude to members of staff, distributors and consumers for their unwavering support, dedication and hard work throughout the past year.  

“Your efforts have been instrumental in driving our success in Ghana, and we truly appreciate your commitment and partnership,” he stated.  

He  called on all partners of the company to come together to make 2025 a year of growth, innovation, and success, saying, “I am excited to see what we will accomplish as a united team.”  

PGH is a leading food manufacturing company providing quality food products for the past 25 years following the launch of its flagship brand, Cowbell in 1999.  

GNA  

Some potential notable figures for the role

In the quest to appoint a new Governor for the Bank of Ghana (BoG), the nation stands at a critical juncture. This decision will profoundly influence Ghana’s economic trajectory and financial stability.

Initially, the list of contenders included notable figures such as Alhassan Andani. However, opposition from some members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Executives led to his exclusion. The focus has now shifted to four distinguished individuals: Dr. George Sipa-Yankey, Dr. Nashiru Issahaku, Dr. Johnson P. Asiama, and Togbe Afede XIV. Among these eminent candidates, Dr. George Sipa-Yankey has emerged as a frontrunner, enjoying strong support from President John Dramani Mahama and his inner circle.

Dr. Sipa-Yankey’s credentials highlight his readiness to lead the Bank of Ghana in these economically challenging times. A distinguished investment lawyer, former Minister of Health, and former Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Gas, Dr. Sipa-Yankey’s career exemplifies excellence and resilience. His international experience includes roles with the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development in Togo, serving as a Consultant to the World Bank under the auspices of the UNDP and UNIDO, and holding academic positions as an Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University in the United States. Currently, he is a respected lecturer at the Ghana School of Law, further underscoring his commitment to nurturing future leaders.

Moreover, Dr. Sipa-Yankey’s regional roots in the Western North Region add a layer of inclusivity to his potential appointment, ensuring broader representation in national leadership. His proven track record and vast experience position him as a capable leader to restore stability and inspire confidence in Ghana’s financial sector. As the Akan proverb states, “Wo kum apem a, apem beba” – “If you kill a thousand warriors, a thousand more will rise.” Dr. Sipa-Yankey exemplifies this resilience and readiness to take on the responsibility of steering Ghana’s economy toward a brighter future.

Dr. Johnson P. Asiama, a former Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, also brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His tenure as a Director at the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) and the Bank of Ghana reflects his deep understanding of the sector. While his supporters highlight his invaluable contributions, there is a growing call for a fresh perspective to address the evolving challenges facing the nation’s financial institutions.

Similarly, Togbe Afede XIV, a celebrated investment banker and Chairman of the World Trade Centre Accra, commands immense respect. His tenure as Chairman of the Council of State further solidifies his reputation for sound leadership and strategic thinking. However, his role as a traditional leader may present unique challenges, as the dual responsibilities of chieftaincy and governance could raise concerns among his people. Many believe Togbe Afede’s expertise could be harnessed in an advisory capacity, where his insights would remain invaluable to national progress.

Dr. Nashiru Issahaku, a former Governor of the Bank of Ghana, also commands attention in this discussion. His tenure saw noteworthy contributions to Ghana’s financial landscape. However, there is a prevailing sentiment that the BoG could benefit from fresh leadership. As the Dagbani adage goes, “Zuguli mali kpang kpang” – “The spear needs a new shaft.” This reflects the belief that a new leader is needed to address current challenges and navigate uncharted economic waters.

Ultimately, the responsibility of appointing the next Governor of the Bank of Ghana lies with President Mahama, a leader renowned for his dedication to national progress. This decision will shape not only his administration’s economic legacy but also the trajectory of Ghana’s financial future.

Among the distinguished contenders, Dr. George Sipa-Yankey’s unparalleled expertise and international recognition make him a compelling choice. His leadership embodies the qualities of competence, vision, and resilience that the position demands. As the legendary African statesman Kofi Annan once said, “To live is to choose, but to choose well, you must know who you are and what you stand for.” President Mahama’s choice will resonate far beyond this administration, setting the tone for years of economic growth and stability.

As Ghanaians eagerly await the final decision, the hope is that the selection will prioritize experience, inclusivity, and a forward-thinking vision. With a position that demands a leader poised to bring a wealth of expertise and proven leadership, the Bank of Ghana stands ready for a transformative era of excellence and progress.

SINGAPORE, Jan. 15 (Xinhua/GNA) — Singapore will introduce measures to improve the management of sexual offense cases, including appointing a specialist group of judges for such cases, Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon has said.

All sexual offense cases in the High Court and selected trials in the State Courts will now be assigned to a specialist group of experienced and specially trained judges and district judges, he said on Monday during the Opening of the Legal Year 2025. “These cases require careful handling because of the impact that the trial process can have on both complainants and accused persons,” he added. Singapore will also pilot enhanced pre-trial checklists, designed to protect complainants while ensuring the accused retain the right to a fair trial.

According to local media, the checklists will help identify contentious issues likely to arise during cross-examination, which will enable judges to exclude lines of questioning deemed irrelevant or insulting to complainants.
GNA

Vienna, Jan 15, (dpa/GNA) – The main suspect in the plot to attack a concert by US pop star Taylor Swift in Austria, has been deemed criminally liable following a psychiatric exam, a spokeswoman for the prosecution said on Tuesday.

The 19-year-old suspect was of sound mind at the time of the offence, according to a psychiatric report obtained by the public prosecutor, she said.

She said it is standard to obtain an expert’s opinion in more serious cases before filing a charge, adding that the investigation is still ongoing.

The young man was detained two days before the first of Swift’s concerts in the Austrian capital Vienna in August 2024, and has been in pre-trial detention since. A 17-year-old suspected accomplice is also under investigation.

The main suspect is said to have planned a suicide attack in the name of the extremist militia organization Islamic State, at the second of a total of three concerts by Swift scheduled to take place in Vienna.

Investigators believe he intended to kill as many of the fans gathered in front of the stadium as possible, either with a homemade explosive device or with cutting and stabbing weapons.

The organizer cancelled all concerts in Vienna due to the terrorist threat.

Another 19-year-old man was also detained during the investigations into the case, and is to stand trial on suspicion of membership of a terrorist organization at the Vienna Regional Court on February 10.

He is not thought to have been directly involved in the plans to attack Swift’s concerts, but allegedly generally promoted Islamic State on social media.

GNA

Former Member of Parliament for Bongo, Edward Bawa, has underscored the importance of privatising the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) as a critical step toward improving efficiency and modernising Ghana’s energy sector.

Energy Minister-designate John Jinapor, during his vetting on January 13, reaffirmed President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to privatising power distribution. Jinapor emphasised that this move aims to address longstanding challenges in the energy sector and elevate service delivery standards.

President Mahama, in a meeting with a World Bank delegation at his Cantonments office in Accra, also reiterated his administration’s focus on energy sector reforms. To achieve this, a specialized team has been assembled to oversee the strategic changes.

In an interview on The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV, Edward Bawa elaborated on the rationale for privatizing ECG, emphasizing the need to replace outdated infrastructure and harness private sector investment and expertise.

“We felt that we needed to reduce inefficiency within ECG. How could we do that? We need to be able to replace most of the obsolete equipment. Now, the government doesn’t readily have that because there are other competing needs, like hospitals and what have you,” he stated.

Bawa further explained the decision to involve the private sector, saying: “And so the government felt that it was possible to leverage the private sector capital to see how we could replace obsolete equipment and other things within ECG to make it efficient.

“We could leverage private sector expertise in trying to ensure that we run the company very well. So, this was what informed the whole idea. What H.E. John Dramani Mahama is doing now is just a continuation of what he believes in.

“That look, we needed to make ECG very efficient. Based on the competing needs, we need to take advantage of the private sector and see how we can leverage both capital and expertise.”

The call for privatization reflects a broader effort by the government to address inefficiencies and position the energy sector for sustainable growth and reliable service delivery.

National Cathedral officials, others listed in Mahama’s diplomatic passport recall

…..
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!

Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x

No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital

Novak Djokovic surpassed Roger Federer’s record for the most major singles matches played as he reached the Australian Open third round.

The 37-year-old was made to work in his 430th Grand Slam singles match but he emerged triumphant, beating qualifier Jaime Faria 6-1 6-7 (4-7) 6-3 6-2.

The win gives Djokovic sole ownership of the all-time record for most Grand Slam singles matches played among men and women, and takes him past former rival Federer, who played his last major match at Wimbledon in 2021.

“I love this sport. I love competition,” Djokovic said when asked about the milestone.

“I try to give my best every single time. It’s been over 20 years that I’ve been competing in Grand Slams at the highest level.

“Whether I win or lose, I will always leave my heart out on the court. I’m just blessed to be making another record.”

The victory also meant the Serb became the first man over the age of 30 to reach 150 Grand Slam singles wins.

Djokovic can make further history still in Melbourne – win the title and he would claim a 25th major, moving him clear of Australia’s Margaret Court as the sole leader of all-time Grand Slam singles titles.

The seventh seed, who has three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray in his coaching box, will face Czech 26th seed Tomas Machac in the third round.

Norwegian sixth seed Casper Ruud became the biggest casualty in the men’s draw, losing 6-2 3-6 6-1 6-4 to 19-year-old Czech Jakub Mensik.

World number 48 Mensik and Joao Fonseca, the 18-year-old Brazilian qualifier who stunned ninth seed Andrey Rublev on Tuesday, are the first teenagers to beat top-10 opponents at the same Grand Slam since Djokovic and Murray at Wimbledon in 2006.

Meanwhile, German second seed Alexander Zverev claimed an assured 6-1 6-4 6-1 victory over Spain’s Pedro Martinez to set up a third-round meeting with Britain’s Jacob Fearnley.

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.

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.

Assin Talks Blog of Wednesday, 15 January 2025

Source: Yahaya Abdul Fattah