Government has terminated existing contracts of all caterers under the School Feeding Program
The School Feeding Caterers Association is pleading with President John Dramani Mahama to urgently address their concerns following what they describe as an unexpected suspension of the school feeding programme.
Speaking in an interview on Channel One TV, the Association’s spokesperson, Nana Otu Sakyi-Amo, expressed deep disappointment over the situation, which she claims has left many caterers in distress.
“This is not what he promised us. He [the President] didn’t promise to put us into debt or let bankers chase us from our homes because we’ve borrowed money to buy foodstuffs,” she said.
According to her, the abrupt halt in operations has thrown many caterers into financial uncertainty, particularly those who had taken loans to purchase ingredients and supplies in anticipation of continued cooking for pupils.
“We are still pleading with His Excellency John Dramani Mahama to come out and speak through the ministry by Monday, so we can go back and cook for the children,” she added.
The Association believes the government’s silence contradicts the assurances made during the presidential campaign and is calling for prompt intervention to restore the programme and provide clarity on their future.
The school feeding programme, which has long served as a vital lifeline for pupils and a key employment avenue for many women, now hangs in the balance, with caterers unsure of when or if they can resume their duties.
Logo of the Public Utilities Workers’ Union (PUWU)
The Public Utilities Workers’ Union (PUWU), a trade union representing Ghanaian utility workers, has stressed the need for politicians to stop interfering in the operations of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), citing it as a major reason for the company’s inefficiency.
The Union claims that politicians, who lack technical knowledge or experience in the energy sector—particularly in ECG affairs—have hijacked the company’s core operations, causing significant disruptions.
General Secretary of the Union, Timothy Nyame, who made the remarks, stated that politicians have taken over the importation of meters from the company and are importing substandard meters that are unfit for purpose.
Speaking in an interview on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, he disclosed that meters are not readily available, and those that exist are often imported by politicians unfamiliar with the technical requirements of meters. He also mentioned that some meters are configured for use in specific locations, but due to interference, these arrangements are disregarded.
Nyame was responding to an assurance given by President John Dramani Mahama that the ECG, as an organization, would not be privatized but would allow private sector participation to ensure efficiency. However, Nyame asserted that there is no difference between privatization and the model proposed by the president.
“We have advised the government to ensure that when meters are being provided, ECG technicians are involved so they can work on the meters or configure them to make reading and revenue collection more effective. The politicians have hijacked the importation of meters without any involvement from ECG. That is a serious challenge for us. When they import the meters, we have no say. We sometimes struggle to configure the meters before we can read them. It is crucial for politicians to stop interfering in our work. That is one of the reasons why ECG is struggling,” he stated.
He also claimed that some meters used by the Ghanaian public are not in ECG’s system because they were procured through middlemen.
“There are consumers who have been struggling to get meters from ECG. They are tossed around by ECG, and these individuals are tempted to get meters from middlemen, leading to illegal connections. These issues result in revenue losses. To address these concerns, we propose that meters should be readily available, passing through ECG to allow for easy configuration,” he emphasized.
Asante Kotoko coach Karim Zito expressed disappointment after his side was held to a 0-0 draw against Hearts of Oak in their latest Ghana Premier League fixture.
Despite dominating large portions of the game, Zito lamented his team’s inability to capitalize on multiple scoring opportunities.
“We squandered too many chances. We should have won, but we weren’t clinical enough,” Zito said after the match. “I still stand by my target of winning the league, even if our chances look slim. Until it’s over, we’ll keep fighting.”
The coach was quick to highlight Kotoko’s superiority in creativity, claiming his side was the better team in terms of attacking play. “In terms of creativity, we were ahead of Hearts of Oak,” he added.
Kotoko’s unbeaten run stretched to eight games, with two wins and six draws, as they remain in fourth place in the league standings. Zito, however, remained optimistic about his team’s chances, despite their mounting frustrations in the title race.
The Royal Family is hoping “nothing will detract or distract” from VE Day commemorations this week, which fall days after Prince Harry’s interview.
The King and Queen are looking forward to the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe and the end of World War Two, Buckingham Palace said.
Events begin on Monday with a military procession through central London, after which members of the Royal Family will appear on the Buckingham Palace balcony.
On Friday, the Duke of Sussex spoke candidly with the BBC about his estrangement from his father and desire for reconciliation, after losing a court battle over his UK security.
It is understood that, out of respect for surviving veterans, Buckingham Palace hopes “nothing will detract or distract from celebrating with full cheer and proud hearts that precious victory and those brave souls, on this most special and poignant of anniversaries”.
King Charles and Queen Camilla will lead the nation in “celebrating, commemorating and giving thanks to the wartime generation whose selfless devotion, duty and service should stand as an enduring example to us all – and must never be forgotten”, a Palace aide said.
This year’s VE Day commemorations are the first to take place without any of the royals who were present 80 years ago.
In 1945, large crowds gathered outside Buckingham Palace to catch a glimpse of King George VI, the Queen Mother, a young Queen Elizabeth II, and Princess Margaret.
Those present on the balcony this year will watch the traditional Red Arrows flyover.
Later in the afternoon, the Royals will also host a tea party for war veterans, their families and other members of the wartime generation in the palace gardens.
Then, on 8 May, the King, Queen and other royals will attend a thanksgiving service with veterans at Westminster Abbey before the royal couple attends Horse Guards Parade for a celebratory concert.
None of the Royal Family has publicly commented on the interview from Prince Harry.
On Friday, he revealed that his father refuses to speak to him and, given King Charles’s cancer diagnosis, he does not know how much longer the King has left.
The comments came after the duke lost a legal challenge against the British government over his security while in the UK – a decision which he says has left him vulnerable to threats on his life and would prevent his return.
Buckingham Palace responded to the interview – which included the prince’s claim that his court defeat was an “establishment stitch-up” – by saying the issues had been repeatedly examined by the courts which had reached the same conclusion each time.
The Home Office, meanwhile, said it was “pleased” the judgement was in the government’s favour, adding the UK’s security system is “rigorous and proportionate”.
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President John Dramani Mahama is expected to unveil a new Code of Conduct for all government appointees later today, Monday, May 5, 2025.
This will mark a significant step in implementing his administration’s 120-day Social Contract.
The announcement was made by the Minister in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, in a Facebook post, on Sunday, May 4, 2025, where he described the week as a pivotal moment for the government’s reform agenda.
First announced during the swearing-in of ministers, the Code of Conduct is designed to establish clear ethical standards for public officials.
President Mahama emphasised that the code would spell out the dos and don’ts of public service, eliminating ambiguity and reinforcing the administration’s commitment to integrity.
The initiative is part of broader efforts to promote responsible governance and intensify the fight against corruption.
It is expected to serve as a framework for accountability and guide the conduct of appointees across various sectors of government.
“President Mahama enters an important week in which stock will be taken off the rollout of his 120-day Social contract.
“It begins with the unveiling of a strict Code of Conduct to regulate the activities of all appointees and ensure transparency and accountability in government,” the Facebook post read.
Supporters of Kennedy Agyapong have issued a strong response to comments made by Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe Abronye, during a radio and TV appearance on Wontumi Media.
In a press statement, Agyapong’s supporters described Abronye’s remarks about the former presidential aspirant as “regrettable and disappointing,” warning that such statements undermine party unity and discipline.
The statement expressed concern over the potential for internal instability if such attacks are not curtailed, noting that they could provoke reactions from Agyapong’s supporters.
The release, signed by Prince Adjei, also known as Guy Gee, Personal Assistant to Kennedy Agyapong, emphasized the values of “peace, discipline, and unity,” urging all supporters to exercise restraint and not retaliate.
“We respectfully urge all Hon. Ken Ohene Agyapong supporters to exercise restraint and refrain from responding in kind,” the statement read.
They added that the party must focus on its true political rival, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), rather than engaging in internal strife.
While affirming that the Agyapong camp has forgiven Abronye, the statement also called on party members to be more mindful of their public commentary, especially regarding fellow party members.
The supporters praised Ken Agyapong for his consistent loyalty and discipline, reiterating his commitment to the NPP’s cause. They called on all party members to unite ahead of the 2028 elections to ensure victory and national progress.
Bolga All Stars SC gained promotion to Division One League after winning the second Division playoffs in the Upper East Region.
The Star Of The East, qualified back to country’s second-tier (Division One League) Sunday after defeating Zorkor United FC 2-1 in their Division Two league playoff at the Kurt Okraku Technical Center.
From all expectations, the encounter was a crucial one for Bolga All Stars SC considering the pressure mounted on them from the minute go.
After 19th minute of action where Zorkor United FC had taken the lead, 1-0 it became a ding-dong affair as Zorkor United FC struggled to hold the power of Bolga All Stars SC.
All Stars tormented their opponent from all angles yet could not net the leveller The crunchy encounter could not record any goal for the first department as it stood 1-0 for Zorkor United FC.
However, after recess the story line turned as Bolga All Stars SC continuous effort at the danger zone of Zorkor United FC paid-off.
Dennis Nyaaba in the 57th minute scored via the penalty spot to ensure his side comes back to the game.
His effort really gave enough energy to Bolga All Stars SC who eventually broke the hearts of Zorkor United FC fans with the tie-breaker which firmly secured their division one league qualification.
It was Nasiru Abdul Dauda’s scintillating strike in the last quarter of the game that ensued Bolga All Stars SC win 2-1.
This result also daunt the hopes of Berekum City FC who were bent on qualifying.
Bolga All Stars SC who previously played in the Ghanaian top-flight, is back to Division One League after two seasons and would be playing in Zone 1A in 2025/26 league season.S
Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim
The government is moving forward with its plan to provide monthly allowances to Assembly Members.
As part of the process, the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs has instructed all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to submit the relevant details of Assembly Members in their jurisdictions.
In a directive issued on April 30, 2025, the Ministry emphasized the urgency of this exercise, referencing Page 73, Section 395 of the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy, which outlines provisions for these payments.
Officials have been directed to use a standardized template and submit the necessary details via email to the Decentralisation Unit, with copies sent to Mr. Samuel Passah at [email protected], by Friday, May 9, 2025.
To prevent delays, local assemblies have been urged to prioritize this task.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader Resetting Agenda, aimed at strengthening local governance and improving support for Assembly Members.
Members voiced frustration over the appointment of external candidates to senior positions
The Senior Staff Association (SSA) of Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) has expressed deep concern over mounting financial, operational, and governance issues within the company, calling for enhanced collaboration with management to safeguard GRIDCo’s position as Ghana’s leading power transmission operator.
Speaking in Tamale at the 7th Biennial Delegates Congress of the SSA, the Association underscored the growing threat of embedded power generation, which enables individuals and businesses to generate their own electricity, effectively bypassing the national grid.
According to the Association, this trend is significantly reducing GRIDCo’s revenue at a time when the company is already struggling with mounting debts, foreign exchange losses, and deteriorating infrastructure.
“The SSA’s role as a stakeholder in enhancing productivity and building a sustainable energy future has never been more crucial. We must work collaboratively to respond to the impact of embedded generation and other systemic challenges undermining GRIDCo’s financial health,” said Chairman Wisdom Kojo Adenyo.
The Congress, held under the theme “Forging Partnership for a Resilient and Sustainable Energy Future,” brought together industry professionals to examine shifting energy trends and develop strategies for transforming GRIDCo.
During the event, the SSA identified key reform priorities, including securing tax waivers on imported transmission equipment, fully implementing the Cash Waterfall Mechanism, strengthening debt recovery efforts—particularly from major clients like ECG—enhancing energy trading, and investing in grid modernization.
In addition to operational issues, SSA Chairman Wisdom Kojo Adenyo raised alarm about internal governance and human resource practices.
Members voiced frustration over the appointment of external candidates to senior positions, arguing that it overlooks more qualified internal staff and damages morale across the organization.
Mr Abraham Dakurah, the Supervising Manager of the Wa Community Co-operative Credit Union (WACCU), has appealed to the government to consider reducing taxes on Credit Unions in Ghana to ensure financial inclusion
He described the 25 per cent tax on surplus for traditional banks slapped on Credit Unions as unfair to the Credit Union since they were limited in their service and products to members compared to the traditional banks.
He added that the high taxes on Credit Unions hampered the financial inclusion of the poor and vulnerable in society – persons with disabilities, the aged, and the poor people – who were mostly members of Credit Unions.
Mr Dakurah said this in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Wa on the sidelines of the WACCU’s 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and the launch of its 60th anniversary celebration.
The WACCU Supervising Manager explained, for instance, that his Credit Union paid about GH?1.1 million in tax on about GH?3.7 million surplus it made in 2024, which he said, were savings of the “vulnerable members of the Union”.
“Yes, we should contribute something to the development of the country, but why should we pay the same rate as the banks when our hands are tied when it comes to certain products and services that the banks render, which the law prevents us from rendering.
“Some of the credit unions have become big now, and we have the muscles to go into those spaces, but the law does not allow us,” Mr Dakurah explained.
He indicated that Credit Unions were considered not-for-profit entities and, therefore, exempted from tax but regretted that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) “descended on the Credit Unions” with the 25 per cent tax a few years ago.
He, therefore, appealed to the government to consider reducing the taxes on Credit Unions from 25 per cent to at most ten per cent (10%) to enable them to thrive and meet their members’ financial needs.
Credit Unions were by law barred from providing certain products and services the traditional banks provided such as forex though some Credit Unions had the capacity to provide such products and services.
They were also not part of the clearinghouse, which had made it more cumbersome to do certain transactions, such as directly issuing cheques to their members but through a bank.
Mr Dakurah also recommended to the government to allow Credit Unions to provide all the banking services that they had been restricted from providing to enable them to become competitive in the banking sector if they must pay the 25 per cent tax.
Dr Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe has long been believed to be a Founding Member of the NPP
Former Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), Kofi Ofosu Nkansah, has claimed that Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe is not listed among the founding members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
According to him, the party’s available records do not support Dr. Tamakloe’s long-held claim of being a founding member.
Mr. Nkansah made this assertion in a Facebook post on Sunday, May 4.
In the brief but pointed statement, he wrote, “Dr. Nyaho Tamakloe’s name is missing in the NPP founding members register. He is fake.”
The post has since attracted reactions from party supporters and observers.
President John Dramani Mahama has assured Banks and other financial institutions of the Government’s commitment to adhering to strict fiscal discipline and prudence in managing the economy.
The President gave the assurance during a dinner reception, he hosted at the Presidency in Accra for Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of banks and other financial institutions, who participated in the recently held Kwahu Business Forum.
“We’re in an IMF (International Monetary Fund) programme, but we’re not going to be disciplined in our management of the economy only because we’re in an IMF Programme.
Even when we exit next year, my hope is that we will implement the programme, so well that we don’t need an extension after April next year,” the President stated.
“But even after we emerge after April next year, I can assure you that we’re going to continue to be disciplined in our expenditure, to be disciplined in how (the) government manages the economy so that we create more space to create more space for the private sector to grow”.
President Mahama said in the past, the previous government had crowded out the private sector when it comes to credit, because every credit available, the government was borrowing.
He said somebody came complaining to him about why the Treasury Bill rate was coming down and that some people were expecting that they should get more money from their Treasury Bills.
“And it’s that (the) government is just being more disciplined. We don’t need all that money. We’ll take just what we need. And if it comes down, it’s in the interest of all of us because it creates more room for the private sector to borrow,” he said.
“We’ll lead by example, and we’ll be the first to sacrifice, because if you ask people to tighten their belts, you must be seen to be tightening your belt first. You don’t loosen your belt when you’re asking people to tighten their belt.”
The President pledged that the Government would manage the budgets and the economy properly.
This, he said, was because the Government also had a role to play.
“You will struggle. And so (the) government also has a role to play to make sure that we create an environment that makes our businesses thrive.
“And that is what has been behind everything that we have done since we took over office on January 7th this year.”
Citing an example of a simple family management, the President said spending more than one’s income, husband and wife, were going to run their family into debt.
He said if one had an issue with income, then one must look at how one cuts the expenditure side.
“You don’t buy a new car, buy new dresses for your wife, expensive shoes and bags when you know that your income is dwindling,” he said.
President Mahama believed that the private sector was the engine of growth; saying “It’s a much-hackneyed phrase, and we politicians always repeat it, but we just pay lip service to it”.
“If the private sector thrives, the economy thrives. If the private sector is happy, then the government is happy,” he said.
“You’ve done your job because it’s the private sector that can absorb and employ the teeming youth that we are producing from all levels of educational structure.”
He said the private sector, including the banks that give businesses capital and credits and that was why what happened in Kwahu was a beautiful thing; declaring that “and we intend to continue to support it and grow it”.
The President assured the CEOs of Banks and other financial institutions that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) was their friend and that they would even be more friendly than before.
He said the Government would soon rationalize all value-added taxes and make them more transparent, fair, and even, so that everybody would be encouraged to pay them.
On his part, Mr Julius Debrah, the Chief of Staff, said the Kwahu Business Forum was going to take a much larger form and that they were going to have about six exhibition halls where manufacturers of agro-processing products, Banks, insurance companies and hospitality industry, and that there would also be conferences.
He said next year’s programme would run for three days from the third to the fifth of April 2026, where people would have ample time to really sell their products.
He announced that someone had donated 23-acre land for establishment of the Kwahu Convention Centre for the exhibition place of the Kwahu Business Forum in 2026.
Mrs Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, underscored the collective commitment of Government and financial institutions to building a stronger, more resilient and inclusive economy.
The University of Mines and Technology (UMAT), Tarkwa, has conducted a simulation exercise to help address illegal mining conflicts peacefully.
UMaT was assisted by officers from the Ghana Police Service, Ghana National Ambulance Service, Ghana National Fire Service, the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana Prisons Service, National Disaster Management Organisation, and Mining companies to undertake the exercise at Wangarakrom in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality.
The exercise formed part of activities to observe this year’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work which falls on April 28 of every year.
The theme for 2025 is: “Revolutionizing Health and Safety: The Role of Al and Digitalization at work.”
Speaking at the event, Dr Eric Stemn, the Coordinator for the Disaster and Emergency Management Hub in UMAT, said because they were in a mining community, annually they tried to identify key community issues, and then stimulate that scenario to test their emergency response teams preparedness.
“So, this year, we undertook a simulation exercise focusing on illegal miners encroaching on the large-scale concession and how we can use dialog instead of the normal force and use of arms” he stated
Dr Stemn revealed that over the past four years, the University had worked closely with Gold Fields on this project to raise awareness about potential risks and challenges, and to promote proactive measures to mitigate them.
Additionally, he said: “One of the major lessons we are learning from this exercise is to ensure proper coordination among the security agencies, and I think gradually, we are achieving that particular purpose.
“For instance, in Tarkwa mining area, I am aware that there has been a lot of engagement with the security agencies and the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice has also been brought on board for them to understand that even though someone has engaged in an illegal act, that does not take away his rights.”
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Raymond Kofi Erzuah, Divisional Police Commander, Tarkwa, who led the exercise, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the exercise and lauded the officers for their dedication and teamwork.
He, however, warned that anyone engaging in illegal mining in water bodies and forest reserves would face the law, as per President John Dramani Mahama’s directive.
ACP Erzuah advised anyone, or group interested in mining to go through the formal processes and obtain necessary permits, adding, “Your life is precious: don’t risk it through illegal mining. Your family and the nation need you.
Mr Prince Essuah, on behalf of Dr Catherine Kuupol Kuutor, the General Manager of Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine, highlighted that, “We face difficulties due to illegal miners invading our sites. We deal with huge equipment, and the risk is that you can run over any of them, and we know the implications.”
He emphasised that, “when it happens that way, the community will come after us, so we protect our sites through regular patrols and community awareness programmes. It’s a tough task, but with persistence and community engagement, we expect good outcome.”
Mr Charles Opoku Amoateng, a member of the planning committee for the programme for UMaT, an adjunct lecturer and the immediate past health and safety manager, Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine, on his part noted that they were pleased with the results because the community was not informed prior to the exercise.
He said: “As the team arrived, with the sirens blaring people started asking what was going on. Some came to the scene not just to watch, but to check if their relatives were arrested so they could plead for leniency. So, the exercise is gaining the awareness we are expecting.”
Ghana’s delegation, led by Dr Godfred Seidu Jasaw, Chair of the Agric and Cocoa Affairs Committee of Parliament, and Madam Emelia Arthur, Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, made a significant impact at the 10th Our Ocean Conference in Busan, South Korea.
The conference aimed to promote global actions for a sustainable ocean.
A statement issued by Dr Jasaw on Thursday and copied to the Ghana News Agency has said.
It said Dr Jasaw participated in panel discussions, side events, and bilaterals to attract investments and partnerships for sustainable fisheries in Ghana. “Notably, he met with Senator John Kerry, 68th US Secretary of State, to discuss amplifying Ghana’s case for greater participation,” it said.
According to the statement crucial meeting with Dr Charlina Vitcheva, Director General of the European Commission for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, discussed the EU’s yellow card warning on Ghana.
“Dr. Vitcheva expressed satisfaction with Ghana’s efforts to address Illegal Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing activities and pledged to initiate processes to reverse the warning.
“Ghana is taking sufficient steps to address concerns, and we will initiate processes to reverse the yellow card warning,” Dr Vitcheva said.
The statement quoted Madam Emelia Arthur, Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture as saying “We are committed to transparency and deterrent sanctions on IUU activities in our waters.”
It further noted that the Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, had committed to the transparency charter and would utilize conference inputs to improve sustainable ocean governance in Ghana.
“This successful conference participation demonstrates Ghana’s dedication to sustainable ocean management and its potential for international cooperation and investment,” it added.
Benjamin Azamati, Ghana’s 100m record holder, improved his season’s best time with a 10.02s finish at the Desert Heat Classics in Tucson, Arizona.
Azamati, who stormed to victory from lane 5, took first place ahead of Trayvion White-Austin, who finished second, while 10.24s was enough for a third place finish for Tyson Tippett.
Jason Boston came fourth while Ian Dossman, Rodrick Pleasant and Enrick Brown, came fifth, sixth and seventh respectively.
Azamati’s impressive time comes after April’s sizzling 10.07s at the Mt. Sac Relays in California.
The Ghanaian, who finished in the semi-finals of last summer’s Olympic Games, has been in fine form this season, warming himself up for the major events.
The 26-year-old, who had been hampered by injury in the last two years, revealed to 3Sports in December that his goal was to participate at the World Championship.
Although Azamati has shown positive signs and strong running, he is yet to run under the 10sec barrier in more than 24 months.
He managed to book a spot to the Paris Olympic Games, where a sub 10s was a Mandatory requirement, after finishing as part of the best ranked 40 athletes in the world.
Under the guidance of coach Bolton, who Azamati joined after the Olympic Games, the Ghanaian will be hoping the opportunity of racing alongside some of the finest athletes, including 2024 Paris 100m bronze medalist Fred Kerley, will elevate his game further.
Sana’a, May 4, (dpa/GNA) – Yemen’s veteran Finance Minister Salem bin Braik has been appointed prime minister of the internationally recognized government, as the war-torn country continues to be roiled by a severe economic crisis.
Rashad al-Alimi, the head of the Saudi-backed Presidential Leadership Council that holds the reins of power in the government-controlled areas in divided Yemen, decreed bin Braik’s appointment, replacing Ahmed bin Mubarak who resigned on Saturday.
Al-Alimi also decreed that members of the government continue to undertake their tasks, Yemen’s official news agency SABA reported late Saturday.
Yemen has been embroiled in a disastrous power struggle since 2014, between government forces, supported by a Saudi-led alliance, and the Iranian-linked Houthi rebels. The Houthis control large areas in the north, including the capital Sana’a.
Bin Mubarak said in his resignation, from the post he held since February last year, that he had faced a “lot of difficulties and challenges,” including the inability to use his constitutional powers and reshuffle the government.
His resignation came amid public discontent due to the decline of the local currency to record lows and the collapse of essential services such as electricity.
The Yemeni currency has lost more than 100% of its value since the formation of the Presidential Leadership Council in April 2022.
The United Nations considers Yemen’s conflict a humanitarian disaster. The war has taken a heavy toll on the infrastructure of the impoverished country.
At least six bodies of migrants were recovered after they washed ashore near the Libyan city of Misrata, a Red Crescent volunteer said.
Libya, following the toppling of leader Muammar Gaddafi in a NATO-backed uprising in 2011, has become a transit route for migrants fleeing conflict and poverty to Europe via the dangerous route across the desert and over the Mediterranean.
Four bodies were recovered on Thursday morning and two more on Thursday evening, said Makhlouf Karim, head of the rescue department in Misrata’s Red Crescent branch.
Karim said the coast near Misrata, a city some 200 km (125 miles) east of Tripoli, was still being patrolled in case more bodies washed ashore.
In February, Libyan security authorities recovered dozens of bodies from mass graves in two different locations in the country’s southeast region. The country’s oil-based economy is also a draw for migrants seeking work.
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The Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra John Bonaventure Kwofie has called on government to move beyond rhetoric and demonstrate real commitment in tackling illegal mining widely known as “galamsey”.
Delivering a homily at the St Francis of Assisi Catholic Parish in Accra on Sunday (4 May), Archbishop Kwofie described illegal mining as “an evil we must not tolerate,” calling on political leaders – particularly – President John Mahama, to back words with visible action.
“Nothing is too late for the President to say ‘enough is enough.’ Galamsey is a complex war, yes, but the complexity cannot be whisked away. We must fight it. We must be seen fighting against galamsey,” the Archbishop declared.
May Day speech
His sermon came just days after President Mahama addressed thousands of workers at Black Star Square during the 2025 May Day celebrations, where he reiterated his administration’s resolve to confront the illegal mining menace head-on.
President Mahama, who recently assumed office following the December 2024 general election, assured Ghanaians that the security services remain “up to the task” and are well-equipped to dismantle illegal mining operations across the country.
However, Archbishop Kwofie questioned whether these assurances would translate into real progress.
“In your May Day address, you told us that our gallant men of the armed forces and security services are up to the task,” he said, directly referencing the President.
“Is that a make-believe talk, or will you take it seriously? We don’t want this talk, we want action.”
120-day timeline
He further recalled that President Mahama, during the election campaign, set a 120-day timeline to tackle illegal mining—a promise yet to be fully realised.
Using the liberation slogan “Aluta Continua”, meaning “the struggle continues”, as used by President Mahama during his speech, Archbishop Kwofie asked a series of probing questions:
“Are we fighting to regain our forest zones and river bodies? Aluta Continua.
But are we fighting the companies and big individuals who are making excessive money on our backs? Aluta Continua.”
He reminded the congregation of the moral and spiritual dimensions of environmental justice, echoing the late Pope’s condemnation of environmental degradation.
“We are poisoning our waters, and we are losing our forests,” he said.
“Let us see our gallant men and women of the armed forces [take action]. The security service has not given up on the fight.”
The Archbishop’s message adds to growing pressure on the Mahama administration to demonstrate progress in curbing illegal mining, which has been blamed for deforestation, polluted rivers, and widespread health and livelihood concerns in mining communities.
As the global Catholic Church prepares to elect a new Pope this week, he called on the faithful to pray not only for new spiritual leadership but also for earthly leaders to show courage and conviction in protecting creation.
Since the South-East Asian country became independent 60 years ago, there have only been four prime ministers, and the conservative PAP has dominated politics in that time.
Nevertheless, the PAP’s unquestioned dominance has begun to weaken in recent years.
In the last election in 2020, the Workers’ Party (WP) – the main opposition force – was able to secure 10 of the 93 seats in parliament, a jump of six seats. In this election the WP held all 10.
Observers expect the WP to do even better this time due to the contribution of young new voters who want democratic reforms. However, amid the unstable global situation, the opposition ultimately failed to achieve such success.
Current Prime Minister Lawrence Wong came into power last year, succeeding long-time premier Lee Hsien Loong. The vote was also seen as the first test of his popularity.
The 52-year-old called the clear victory “a clear signal of trust, stability and confidence” of Singaporeans in their government.
The election comes at an important time, with the tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump hitting the small country particularly hard, given that it relies so much on exports.
Singapore is one of the richest countries per capita in the world, and has a population of about 6 million people. But despite Singapore’s pioneering role in technology and innovation, human rights activists have been warning of increasing autocracy and repressive laws.
In mid-April, the Trade Ministry lowered its growth forecast for 2025 from the range 1-3% to 0-2%.
Famous for its technology and innovation, Singapore is also known for its strict criminal laws.
Fans of Ed Sheeran have been treated to a “surprise” gig at a pub in his home county that he is taking over for a fortnight.
The Thomas Wolsey in Ipswich town centre has been re-branded as The Old Phone – named after one of Sheeran’s latest songs.
The pub will be known by that name for two weeks before it reverts to its actual name again.
Music-lovers have been speaking of their delight at seeing the global star perform on their doorstep.
Rachel Clements described herself as a “big fan” of Sheeran
Rachel Clements, 28, from Stowmarket, said she was “very excited that he’s doing something this small, in our home town”.
Ms Clements said she was hoping to hear his latest track and new material from his Play album, which includes a song called Old Phone.
“We had one of his songs as our wedding song last year, so in a way I’m hoping he’ll do that,” she added.
Ms Clements was among the many fans who responded to an Ed Sheeran WhatsApp message to get tickets.
People were also waiting to see if they might be let in if there was space.
It is the latest instalment of Sheeran’s pop-up pub concept.
He has previously opened versions of The Old Phone in Ipswich, Massachusetts, US, for one night, and another one at the Coachella festival in California.
Ed Sheeran carried out a soundcheck and was expected to perform for at least an hour at Sunday lunchtimeSheeran fan Alyssa Ali happened to be visiting Ipswich when she heard about the “pop-up” gig
Alyssa Ali, 20, from Florida in the US, had been in London, where she has been studying for a month.
She fortuitously decided to come to Ipswich this weekend, as part of her travels around the UK.
Sheeran grew up in Framlingham, about 15 miles north of Ipswich, but he is known for being an avid Ipswich Town fan and has sponsored their shirts, and he played gigs at other pubs in the town before he became famous.
“I love Ed and have been a fan for a decade,” said Ms Ali.
“So I had to come to his hometown and go around Ipswich, and I was here yesterday, and then he decided to pop-up here in this pub, and my hotel’s eight minutes walk from there, so we ran over here as soon as I found out, hoping to get in.
“I’m so nervous because I don’t know if I’ll be able to get in. I’m just so excited to be in his presence again.”
She said she was very much looking forward to hearing his new songs.
Michael Marron hoped to be allowed into the pub to see Sheeran
Michael Marron, 38, from Ipswich, was also hoping to see Sheeran perform.
“Delighted, we saw him do this show in America, and we were wondering if he would do something like this in Ipswich.
“It’s great that he’s come back to Ipswich and he’s entertaining the people of Suffolk.”
Sheeran is known for playing impromptu gigs in Suffolk’s county town, including one on the Town Hall steps in 2022.
“It’s a buzz, and he always goes the extra mile for the people of Suffolk,” said Mr Marron.
“I remember he was here not so long ago, and he gifted a guitar to a primary school child. It’s great to see celebrities do that.”
Hopeful fans queuing for tickets on St Peter’s Street to see Sheeran play
It is understood that music bloggers, influencers and selected fans were invited or picked at random to attend the gig.
Last week, the musician announced a a run of three gigs at Ipswich Town’s Portman Road in July. He is also a minority stakeholder in the club, which has just been relegated from the Premier League.
The Thomas Wolsey is named after one of Ipswich’s most famous sons – Henry VIII’s right-hand man, Cardinal Wolsey, whose statue is just along the road from the pub.
The pub used to be called Bar IV…and before that, The Blackadder
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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.
According to the helpful Turkish journalist I was sitting with as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer became the first foreign coach since hugely respected Romanian Mircea Lucescu in 2003 to guide Besiktas to an away win at Fenerbahce, there is no literal translation for ‘Ole’s at the wheel’.
Gemi kaptani – captain of the ship – was the best he could come up with.
It might be a while before it catches on with the Besiktas faithful, or that Solskjaer could understand them even if it did.
But the 2,100 supporters shoehorned into the corner of the Ulker Stadium were making plenty of noise as Solskjaer went with his players to thank them for their backing.
His side’s 1-0 victory means that in his 15 games as Besiktas manager, the Norwegian has beaten both Galatasaray and Fenerbahce.
In the process of this triumph, he was also, almost certainly, ending any remaining hope Jose Mourinho might have of closing his debut season in Turkey as a league champion.
With four games left, Fenerbahce now trail Galatasaray by eight points.
Not that Mourinho let his disappointment show as he cupped his hands round Solskjaer’s head after the final whistle.
Twice, the two men, who between them spent over five years from 2016 to 2021 trying to sort out Manchester United, were virtually cheek to cheek as they reflected on their situation.
“Ole is here for a few months,” said Mourinho afterwards. “He is experienced and intelligent enough to learn what he has to learn.
“I am nobody to give him advice. We spoke in the tunnel before the game. It was normal things two guys who respect each other but have to play a match say to each other. After it was the same.
“We are experienced enough for him not to be on the moon because he won, just as I am not in hell because I lost a derby. We respect each other well. I think we like each other too. I would say that.”
The respective ways in which they dealt with their situations in post-match media conferences, which take much longer than they are used to due to the need for translations out of English, was instructive in itself.
One of the last things Mourinho had done before the game began was to exchange a hug with Gedson Fernandes.
The 62-year-old was Spurs manager for the entirety of Fernandes’ 12-month loan spell at the club from Benfica.
Fernandes played 14 times but never scored. Mourinho probably did not expect the Portugal international to be the main offensive threat to his side.
But, in a fundamental tactical reshuffle, few credit the Norwegian with the capacity to impose, veteran forward Ciro Immobile was left on the bench, meaning Fernandes was the support for makeshift striker Rafael Silva.
So, when Mert Muldur played his fatal inside pass to no-one across the edge of his own box, it was Fernandes who stroked it home.
That made amends for his penalty miss eight minutes earlier.
In between came the kind of chaos for which Mourinho is so celebrated, but on this occasion, he remained as a – sort of – detached observer.
The stadium was simmering anyway when the home side broke from Irfan Can’s penalty save. As Morocco striker Youssef En-Nesyri bore down on the visitor’s goal, Besiktas keeper Mert Gunok came sliding out. Gunok just got to the ball first but sent En-Nesyri flying with the additional contact.
Cue pandemonium.
As play continued downfield, the Fenerbahce bench harangued the fourth official and the nearside assistant referee in front of them. On the pitch, former Leicester defender Caglar Soyuncu voiced his displeasure directly in front of the referee and was booked. Another yellow card was waved at the home bench as Mourinho watched on.
Around the media area, there were pockets of unrest. Half a dozen wearing corporate lanyards were escorted out.
Fernandes’ goal triggered widespread chanting, demanding the removal not only of the club’s president but also his number two, Hull City owner Acun Ilicali.
Fenerbache dominated the second half but failed to make their possession count. They have now played their two great city rivals on a total of five occasions this season, have lost four and earned a single point.
They are now eight points behind Galatasaray with four games left, and Mourinho knows the title is heading elsewhere.
“I don’t speak about them,” he said when asked to offer his thoughts on Gala’s impending success.
“I speak about the Championship. I did it during the season, and I don’t change a single word.
“One of the problems Fenerbahce has is the difficulty in coping mentally with the power of the system. It is stronger than the quality, than the wheel. It is something really powerful. The players feel it and know it is completely impossible to reach what they want to reach.”
Earlier this month, Mourinho claimed Turkish football was dominated by Galatasaray and it “didn’t smell like a nice perfume”.
In contrast, Solskjaer dismissed the victory, pointing out that in the games immediately after a similarly notable triumph against Galatasaray last month, his team had been “hopeless”.
They are now in a strong position to finish third and secure a place in next season’s Europa League.
The Norwegian is taking nothing for granted.
“The next four games will decide a lot,” he said. “Can they play the next four games like this one?
“After Gala, we were hopeless. We must have a different reaction after this.”
Fenerbahce will be in the Champions League next season. Whether Mourinho will still be with them is another matter.
Evidently, he is unhappy with how Turkish football is run. And with the Fenerbahce fans unhappy at how the people who employed him are running their club, a parting of ways cannot be ruled out this summer.
“I am not speaking about next season,” he said. “I will speak internally, not to the media.
“If there is something, out of respect to the president and the board, I will not bring it into the public.”
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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.
Oil prices fell more than $2 a barrel in early Asian trade on Monday as OPEC+ is set to further speed up oil output hikes, spurring concerns of more supply.
Brent crude futures dropped $2.15 a barrel, or 3.51%, to $59.14 a barrel by 2208 GMT while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was at $56.03 a barrel, down $2.26, or 3.88%.
Both contracts touched their lowest since April 9 at Monday’s open after Reuters reported that OPEC+ will accelerate oil output hikes and could bring back to the market as much as 2.2 million barrels per day by November as the group’s leader, Saudi Arabia, seeks to punish some fellow members for producing above quotas.
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Saani Abdulai admitted to engaging in the illicit trade due to financial difficulties
Correspondence from Northern Region
The Tamale citizen-led Anti-Tramadol Taskforce, dedicated to combating the sale of illegal and highly addictive opioids, has arrested a policeman allegedly involved in the sale of tramadol.
The police officer, identified only as Saani Abdulai of the Sakasaka Police Station, was apprehended with six boxes of tramadol on Saturday during a special operation by the taskforce.
Chairman of the Taskforce, Alhaji Naziru Gbarigbari, told journalists that their intelligence had revealed the security officer possessed over 1,500 boxes of the opioid. However, they found only six boxes during the operation. He added that they suspect Abdulai is hiding more.
“Even though he mentioned having Tramadol 225mg when interacting with our undercover agent, we found only 125mg on him. We’re still interrogating him to know where he’s keeping the 225mg,” Alhaji Gbarigbari said.
“Initially, he didn’t want to admit he was a dealer. He tried to use his position as a police officer to intimidate us, but we outsmarted him,” he added.
Gbarigbari stated that the taskforce would hand Abdulai over to the police once their interrogation is complete. The Chairman of the Anti-Tramadol Taskforce called for continuous public support to help eradicate the tramadol trade in the Northern Region.
Saani Abdulai admitted to engaging in the sale of illegal opioids but was quick to clarify that he did so without the knowledge of the police service.
He explained that he entered the business due to financial difficulties.
“The police service doesn’t know I’m involved in this business. It’s something I do secretly. I went into this business because things were tough; I had no turning point,” he explained.
When examining relationships that thrive across decades, researchers consistently find that communication patterns established early become the foundation for long-term relationship health. These patterns go beyond basic advice about “good communication” to reveal specific habits that create resilience against the inevitable challenges couples face.
The validation response: The 5-second habit preventing emotional disconnection
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Nanisto News Blog of Sunday, 4 May 2025
Source: Manteaw Amos
Blue Jeans Energy Drink has been named Best Energy Drink at the prestigious Ghana Beverage Awards (GBA), held on May 2nd 2025 at the Kempinski Hotel, Accra. The announcement marks a significant milestone for the popular energy drink brand, known for its bold flavor and energizing formula.
Organized annually to celebrate excellence in the beverage industry, the Ghana Beverage Awards recognizes outstanding achievements and contributions across various drink categories. This year’s ceremony brought together industry stakeholders, government officials, and beverage enthusiasts to honor innovation, quality, and consumer satisfaction.
Blue Jeans Energy Drink stood out among its peers due to its consistent performance in the market, strong consumer loyalty, and commitment to quality standards. Accepting the award, a spokesperson for Blue Jeans thanked the organizers and consumers, stating, “This award is a testament to the hard work of our team and the trust our customers place in us every day. We’re proud to energize Ghana and beyond.”
The award further solidifies Blue Jeans Energy Drink’s reputation as a leading force in Ghana’s beverage space, reinforcing its status as a preferred choice for both energy and refreshment.
The Ghana Beverage Awards continues to serve as a platform to encourage healthy competition, promote local brands, and inspire excellence in Ghana’s thriving beverage industry.
The Chairman of the NDC Youth Manifesto Committee, Julian Mawuse Cobbinah, has underscored the need for transparency and meritocracy in the delivery of government-backed business support schemes under President John Mahama’s youth-focused policies.
Speaking on Channel One Newsroom on Sunday, May 4, Cobbinah said the current administration’s renewed emphasis on credible systems for distributing business support is key to ensuring lasting impact and accountability.
“We did a research. The first problem is that the people that must get the support must merit it. And in the past, we have wrecked our support system for businesses. It has become a partisan clientele. People think that because they belong to political parties, they must be given cushions by government. I think we must stop that, because when you do that you just create a bowl that you put money down without effect,” he stated.
Cobbinah was speaking in reference to the Mahama administration’s implementation of flagship youth interventions such as the Adwumawura Programme and the National Apprenticeship Programme. The initiatives form part of the President’s 120-day social contract with Ghanaians, aimed at delivering measurable change in employment, entrepreneurship, and skills development.
“What the government wants to do is that we have a credible regime, credible process in the award of the support for these businesses, so that we can actually get to reach those that actually need the support,” he added.
The Mahama-led government has rolled out several targeted youth initiatives in its first months in office, promising sustainable economic empowerment and job creation interventions.
Brazilian police said they thwarted a bomb attack planned for Lady Gaga’s concert on Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday.
The Civil Police of Rio de Janeiro state, in coordination with the justice ministry, said suspects had recruited participants to carry out attacks using improvised explosives, and the plan was aimed at gaining notoriety on social media.
The person responsible for the plan and a teenager were arrested, the police said.
Lady Gaga’s team said they learned about the bomb threat only from media reports the morning after the gig. A crowd of more than two million people gathered for the concert, which was free to attend.
Police said the group that planned the attack had been spreading hate speech, mainly against children, adolescents and the LGBTQ+ community.
The alleged mastermind was arrested for illegal possession of a firearm in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul, while the teenager was detained for storing child pornography in Rio.
Those responsible were also promoting the radicalisation of teenagers, including self-harm and violent content “as a form of belonging and challenge among young people”.
A spokesperson for Lady Gaga told The Hollywood Reporter: “We learned about this alleged threat via media reports this morning.
“Prior to and during the show, there were no known safety concerns, nor any communication from the police or authorities to Lady Gaga regarding any potential risks.”
More than two million attended Lady Gaga’s biggest ever concert in Rio de Janeiro
The justice ministry said the suspects had identified themselves as Lady Gaga fans, known widely as “Little Monsters”.
Police issued search warrants across the states of Rio de Janeiro, Mato Grosso, Rio Grande do Sul and Sao Paulo, and electronic devices and other materials were seized.
“Operation Fake Monster” was launched following a tip-off from Rio state police intelligence, which uncovered online groups encouraging violence among teenagers using coded language and extremist symbolism.
The concert was paid for by the city in an attempt to revitalise Rio’s economy, with expectations it could bring in $100m (£75m).
In a massive security operation, 5,000 officers were deployed, and attendees had to pass through metal detectors. Drones and facial recognition cameras were also used to police the event.
Lady Gaga, who last performed in Brazil in 2012, took the stage as part of a tour to promote her eighth album, Mayhem.
The singer wore Brazil-themed costumes for some of her acts, with outfits inspired by the national football team.
“You waited for more than 10 years for me,” an emotional Lady Gaga told the huge crowd, holding out a Brazilian flag.
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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.
Kwesi Botchway Jnr Esq, a private legal practitioner and a member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) communication team, has taken exception to the conduct of Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine, describing the ongoing trial of Kwabena Adu Boahene, a former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), as unlawful and improper in the media space.
Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen, Botchway expressed concern over what he sees as an inappropriate public prosecution being waged against Adu Boahene through the media, rather than through the appropriate legal channels.
“The Attorney General’s focus should be on prosecuting matters in court, not in the media. The Attorney General is fundamentally an officer of the court, whose duty is to aid the judiciary in administering justice by presenting evidence gathered through proper investigative procedures. What we are witnessing now is quite the opposite,” he stated.
He contended that the current posture of Dr Ayine departs from this essential role, accusing the Attorney General of overstepping his mandate by prematurely casting judgment in the public domain.
“The Attorney General is no longer acting as an impartial officer of the court. Instead, he seems to have taken on the role of an inquisitor—conducting his own investigations, drawing his own conclusions, and now seeking to foist those conclusions on the court,” the lawyer stated.
Botchway cautioned that such conduct not only risks prejudicing the outcome of the case but also undermines public trust in the judicial process.
He added that, should the court ultimately rule in favor of Adu Boahene, there is a likelihood that blame would be unfairly placed on the judiciary, particularly judges perceived to be sympathetic to the NPP.
“The danger here is that if the Attorney-General fails to secure a conviction, we may soon hear accusations that an ‘NPP judge’ was responsible for acquitting the accused,” he cautioned.
While acknowledging that media attention on legal matters can help inform the public, Botchway maintained that the primary focus should remain on ensuring a fair trial within the confines of the law.
“It is not wrong to have public discourse around ongoing cases, but when the Attorney General himself becomes a front-runner in the media trial, it completely defeats the ends of justice,” he emphasised.
Botchway stressed that justice must be pursued within the confines of the courtroom, not through public discourse or media sensationalism.
“Justice must be served in the courtroom, not in the court of public opinion. It is only a matter of time, and innocence will be proven. We must tread cautiously when dealing with matters of law,” he said.
Botchway further warned against allowing emotions and political biases to overshadow the rule of law. He noted that while public interest in high-profile cases was understandable, legal standards needed to remain paramount. “It is the law over emotions and political biases anyway. Vindication is in the womb of time,” he added.
Meanwhile, Kwabena Adu Boahene has been remanded by the Accra High Court into the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) for seven days.
The court stated that Kwabena Adu Boahene’s remand is to allow the Attorney General’s office sufficient time to complete the preparation of witness statements for the case.
The case has subsequently been adjourned, and Kwabena Adu Boahene is expected to reappear in court on May 13, 2025, for further directions from the court.
Further reports indicate that counsel for the accused, Samuel Atta Akyea, requested the court to maintain the existing bail conditions for all the accused persons.
However, the Attorney General opposed this request specifically in relation to the first accused, Kwabena Adu Boahene, arguing that he had interfered with potential prosecution witnesses, grounds he deemed sufficient to warrant remand.
After hearing submissions from both the Attorney General and the legal counsel for the accused, the judge ruled that Kwabena Adu Boahene be held in custody for seven days, excluding weekends. This decision was made despite pleas from the defense counsel for the court to include weekends within the remand period.
Kwabena Adu Boahene has officially been charged with 11 counts of stealing, including the alleged transfer of GH¢49 million (approximately $7 million) from the bureau’s account to his personal account, among other offenses.
The suit, which was filed at the High Court in Accra, also had three other accused persons, including the wife of Adu Boahene, Angela Adjei Boateng; his company, Advantage Solutions Limited; and a banker, Mildred Donkor.
The charges filed against the accused persons included: stealing, contrary to Section 124(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29); conspiracy to steal, contrary to Sections 23(1) and 124(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960; and defrauding by false pretences, contrary to Section 131(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).
Some of the other charges against them are: wilfully causing financial loss to the state, contrary to Section 179A(3)(a) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29); using public office for profit, contrary to Section 179C(a) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29); and collaboration to commit a crime, to wit, using public office for profit, contrary to Section 179C(b) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).
AM/GA
#TheAdutwumFactor! Watch as Yaw Osei Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP flagbearership for 2028
Relationship arguments are inevitable, but how we recover afterward determines whether we build lasting resentment or genuine healing. When conflicts subside, emotional aftereffects often linger longer than expected. Here’s how to effectively move beyond difficult moments while strengthening your relationship.
The Institute of Economic Research and Public Policy (IERPP) has announced an upcoming assessment of President John Dramani Mahama’s first 120 days in office.
The event, scheduled for Wednesday, May 7, 2025, aims to evaluate Mahama’s presidency since the National Democratic Congress (NDC) assumed power.
According to a message from the IERPP regarding the assessment, “then-candidate Mahama, prior to the December 7, 2024, elections, made several promises to be fulfilled within his first 120 days in office.”
These commitments have been analyzed by the Institute of Economic Research and Public Policy, and the findings will be presented to the public.
The theme for the conference is “The 120-Days Accountability Showdown: Are We Resetting or Repeating the Past?”
AM/GA
#TheAdutwumFactor! Watch as Yaw Osei Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP flagbearership for 2028
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) says it has commenced investigations into the cause of the fire outbreak at its Achimota Bulk Supply Point (BSP), which disrupted power supply in parts of Accra.
According to the General Manager for External Communications at ECG, Charles Nii Ayiku Ayiku in an interview on the Channel One Newsroom on Sunday May 4, the exact cause of the incident is yet to be determined, but a full probe is currently underway.
“No, we’ve not been able to identify the cause of the fire outbreak. Just after the incident, we launched an investigation into the cause, so I’m sure in a few days or weeks, we should be able to come out with a report on the actual cause of the fire at our substation,” he said in a media briefing.
Ayiku also confirmed that the damaged earthing transformer, which was affected by the fire, has already been replaced.
“It has been replaced. In fact, it was replaced immediately. So, currently we are just doing some tests and observing the new earthing transformer which has been installed,” he added.
Meanwhile the affected areas included Kanda, parts of Cantonments, Kwabenya, Haatso, Legon, and Madina.
Giving details of the incident earlier, Francis Kofi Atsyatsya, ECG’s General Manager for Sub-Transmission in Accra, told Channel One News that the problem stemmed from a sudden equipment failure.
“Around 10:35, we had a blast on our protective device, causing outages to customers around Kanda, part of Cantonments, Kanda, Legon, Haatso and Madina. So we called in the fire service to assist us by quenching the fire as we take our time to figure out what exactly caused the blast,” he explained.
Atsyatsya said the station had to be isolated for safety as fire personnel worked to douse the flames. After the fire was contained, ECG technicians worked to reroute power to the affected areas through nearby supply points.
“The entire station was isolated for the fire service men to carry out their work. After they were done, we tried to restore the source of light for the affected customers by transferring them to the adjoining bulk supply point that we have in Accra. So as at 1:20, we were able to provide light to all the affected customers. As we speak, everybody who was affected by the outage is back on supply,” he added.
The Ghana Police Service has interdicted G/L/Cpl Shani Abdullai, for being in possession of restricted pharmaceutical substances at Kpalsi, a suburb of Tamale in the Northern Region.
His interdiction is to allow for a thorough investigation into his conduct in line with Police Service regulations.
The police announced in a statement on their official Facebook page on May 4, 2025.
A prominent member of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alex Mensah, has disclosed his readiness to switch allegiance to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) if the party elects Chief of Staff Julius Debrah as its flagbearer for the 2028 elections.
Speaking on Atinka TV, Alex Mensah pledged lifelong loyalty to the NPP but stated he would temporarily campaign for the NDC if Julius Debrah emerges as the NDC leader for the 2028 elections.
He described Julius Debrah as a hardworking and humble man capable of leading the NDC to victory in the upcoming elections.
Alex Mensah further noted that Julius Debrah transcends political divides and is seen as a unifier who can bring unity and development to the country.
“I love the NPP and will continue to serve the party until the end of time. Julius Debrah is the one who might pull me out of the NPP. Rumors suggest he may be the flagbearer of the NDC in the 2028 elections. I admire the man, so if he is elected flagbearer of the NDC, I’d support and work for him. I actively support him,” he said.
Alex Mensah’s statements mark yet another endorsement of Julius Debrah, who, according to reports, is currently focused solely on ensuring President John Dramani Mahama delivers a successful second term.
It will be recalled that in January this year, respected legal luminary Professor Kwame Gyan made compelling arguments for electing Julius Debrah as the NDC flagbearer and, subsequently, President of the country.
“Julius Debrah doesn’t rush into things; he has a good heart and is kind to all, regardless of their political affiliation. I have worked with Julius on several occasions, and he’s down-to-earth. His demeanor is unique, and he’s a unifier. He knows his work and doesn’t rant,” Gyan said.
“Julius does his work calmly, never fails, and always succeeds. In politics, selfishness doesn’t help. If you are a leader and exhibit selfishness toward your members, they will teach you bitter lessons during elections,” he continued.
“Julius Debrah is respectful and accommodating; that’s the kind of leader the NDC should seek. For the NDC to succeed after John Mahama, Julius Debrah should lead them to ensure an easy victory in the 2028 election,” he affirmed.
@lordknows_madugu Julius Debrah’s candidature is the only thing that can snatch me from NPP – Alex Tetteh #fypシ #fyp ♬ original sound – Kewaw Madugu
The communities expected to benefit from this upgrade include Tseaddo and Chain Homes
To address the growing electricity demand in and around Tseaddo, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Sub Transmission Accra, will install a mobile transformer to enhance power supply and improve system reliability.
The mobile transformer, with a capacity of 20/26 Mega Volt Ampere (MVA) and operating at a voltage of 33/11 Kilovolts (kV), will be temporarily stationed at Tseaddo to support a portion of the load from the La Primary Substation.
The communities expected to benefit from this upgrade include Tseaddo, Chain Homes, and surrounding areas.
The introduction of the mobile substation is anticipated to not only improve the reliability and quality of electricity supply but also boost revenue for ECG’s operations.
Furthermore, it aims to stimulate socio-economic activities within the affected communities.
The mobile transformer is set to serve as a temporary solution to current challenges and will remain in use until the transformers at the existing La Primary Substation are upgraded.
A Kenyan woman, Akinyi Helen, has opened up about the alleged betrayals she experienced at the hands of her ‘jealous’ younger sister.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, May 3, 2025, Helen revealed that she raised her sister like a daughter after their parents separated, ensuring that she received an education.
However, in return, her sister allegedly had an affair with her partner.
She claimed that despite forgiving her sister, the girl allegedly began a covert campaign to destroy her reputation, recruiting friends to turn against her and spreading lies behind her back.
According to Helen, she discovered that her sister had been texting the father of her child, repeatedly asking him for money.
“How do people deal with jealous sisters? This lady is my younger sister. We share the same mum. I’m 13 years older than her. So I’ve always considered her like my daughter,” she wrote.
“A lot happened during my teenage days and our parents separated. I decided to take my siblings and live with them. I educated my sister until she graduated.
My sister repaid me by sleeping with my man. That’s why I low-key hate marriage because part of me feel men are just evil people. Who does that? I forgave my sister but then her jealousy continued growing each day. She recruited her friends to hate me. On my face she acted innocent, very soft spoken but behind the scenes, she told people I was an evil sister.
I started using sea salt October last year and by December my sister couldn’t hide the hatred she had towards me anymore. I had even paid for a vacation in Mombasa and I ended up leaving her there.
Recently, she was all over texting the father of my kid asking for money and I let it slide. She made it a habit and I had to put a stop to that nonsense. This lady is now very salty trying to ruin everything for me.
When I say I don’t want kids anymore. I don’t want my daughter to go through the bullshit I go through in the name of siblings. What do I do to this lady? I’m posting here because I got no family to share this with. I’m a loner.
The Chairman of the NDC Youth Manifesto Committee, Julian Mawuse Cobbinah, has revealed that the John Mahama administration plans to support the creation of at least 10,000 youth-led businesses each year as part of an ambitious strategy to tackle youth unemployment and boost economic activity.
Speaking on Channel One Newsroom on Sunday, May 4, Cobbinah emphasised the transformative potential of the initiative, provided it is implemented with fairness and transparency.
“The John Mahama Government believes that it can help create 10,000 new businesses every year, that are created by young people. If these businesses are providing 10 each employed young persons, and we are doing it for the next four years, that is 40,000 times 10, and that is for only direct jobs, and that is very massive,” he explained.
He stressed that only deserving and qualified individuals would benefit from the programme, with strong mechanisms in place to prevent partisan interference in the allocation of business support.
“The people who will get the support must merit it. In the past, we have wrecked our support system for businesses, and it has become like a partisan cradle… I think we must stop that. What the government wants to do is to have a credible regime and process in the awarding of the support to these businesses,” Cobbinah asserted.
He noted that a merit-based system would ensure that support reaches young entrepreneurs who truly need it and can help drive sustainable economic growth.
The Adwumawura Programme, which targets young people aged 18 to 35, is expected to be central to the NDC’s job creation and youth empowerment agenda, fostering innovation and a vibrant private sector.
The Ghana Police Service says the interdiction is to allow for a thorough investigation
The Ghana Police Service has interdicted G/L/Cpl Shani Abdullai for possessing restricted pharmaceutical substances in Kpalsi, a suburb of Tamale in the Northern Region.
The interdiction follows his arrest by the Tamale citizen-led Anti-Tramadol Taskforce on Saturday, May 3, 2025, during a special operation targeting the sale of illegal and highly addictive opioids, commonly referred to as ‘red.’
According to a statement from the Ghana Police Service, on Sunday, G/L/Cpl Abdullai’s interdiction is to allow for a thorough investigation into his conduct in line with Police Service regulations.
“The Ghana Police Service has interdicted G/L/Cpl Shani Abdullai, for being in possession of restricted pharmaceutical substances at Kpalsi, a suburb of Tamale in the Northern Region.
“His interdiction is to allow for a thorough investigation into his conduct in line with Police Service regulations,” the statement said.
The officer, stationed at Sakasaka Police Station, was found with six boxes of tramadol, a restricted opioid, during the taskforce’s operation.
Alhaji Naziru Gbarigbari, Chairman of the Anti-Tramadol Taskforce, revealed that their intelligence indicated Abdullai possessed over 1,500 boxes of tramadol, though only six boxes—containing 125mg doses—were recovered during the arrest.
“Even though he mentioned having Tramadol 225mg when interacting with our undercover agent, we found only 125mg on him. We’re still interrogating him to know where he’s keeping the 225mg,” Gbarigbari stated.
He added that the officer initially denied being a dealer and attempted to use his position to intimidate the taskforce but was outsmarted.
Abdullai admitted to engaging in the illicit trade, citing financial difficulties as his motivation.
Veteran politician and founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, has cast doubt on the leadership capabilities of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s 2024 presidential candidate and former Vice President of Ghana.
Speaking candidly on TV3’s Hot Issues on Sunday, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe made it clear he believes Bawumia lacks the decisiveness and independence Ghana urgently needs in its next leader.
A variety of melodic and harmonic textures were thrown at a highly appreciative audience when Spanish-American trumpeter, composer and bandleader Milena Casado, backed by the GHJazz Collective, played the first set at this year’s International Jazz Day concert on May 3 at the +233 Jazz Bar and Grill in Accra.
As if to suggest she was in Accra for serious business, she didn’t say a word when she got on stage and launched straight into a piece called Thula Mtwana by the late South African self-taught multi-instrumentalist, Bheki Mseleku.
It was a haunting track built on flexibility. Milena and the band were in vibrantly positive mood as they supplied deft touches all around. They took turns at solos, and there was gorgeous unison as the piece progressed.
Milena Casado
That was apparently just a warm-up, because the track that followed—the Adowa-drenched Nana Freme—was an elegant mixture of folk song and sophisticated jazz, delivered in a charming, unpretentious way. The applause was warm.
Casado then said it was a pleasure to be in Ghana. She thanked the GHJazz Collective and the management of +233 for making her part of such “an incredible event.”
There was still room and time for her and the GHJazz Collective to show how capable and imaginative they were, with more material composed by saxophonist Bernard Ayisa, pianist Victor Dey Jr., and Casado’s own piece Resilience, which was accompanied by inspiring poetry from Ghanaian poet Poetra. It was a gripping set, and hearing Casado proved to be highly invigorating entertainment.
The other guest for the night, Brazilian-American singer Jackie Ribas, somehow had a more accessible repertoire. Some in the audience had seen her at last year’s International Jazz Day concert at +233 and were happy to see her back in Accra. Her long, sustained notes and scat-singing moments were warmly acknowledged.
Jackie Ribas
Ribas performed reworked popular classics from the likes of Stevie Wonder, Anita Baker, Michael Jackson and Aretha Franklin. She was thrilled to see a few Brazilians in the house and promised to do a samba. When she did, it pulled dancers to the floor, and she joined in for a feel-good ending to the evening’s bash.
Some of the patrons stayed on a little longer and mingled with the musicians. The consensus was that they had thoroughly enjoyed this year’s International Jazz Day concert, which was made possible by the Ghana Jazz Foundation in collaboration with the +233 Jazz Bar and Grill.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) instituted International Jazz Day in 2011 to raise awareness of jazz and its ability to unite people across the world. Concerts have been held on April 30 at +233 since 2012 to mark the day. This year’s concert, however, was shifted to May 3.
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.
A video of a young Nigerian lady weeping over not achieving ‘anything’ at 23, has made the rounds on social media.
In the video, the young lady lamented that she recently turned 23 and her mother came into her room to pray for her. She said that after her mum finished prayers and left, she was all alone and started to think about her life. She said she is 23 and wonders what her purpose in life is as she is not in school not doing any business, and not even in a relationship.
‘’Today is actually my birthday. My mom came into my room to pray for me. When she was done, she stepped out and then I realized that so much is going in my life, I realized I don’t have much time left. I am 23 years old right now. If you add two more years to my age, I will be 25.
I have not figured out my life. I have no business, I am not working, not in school. no relationship…I am just there, just living each day as it comes. I know this is not the plans God has for me. It cannot be because he cannot create me and keep me there just to occupy space. No! Even if that is the plan he has for me, I know that I want more, I can change it. The feeling is so overwhelming. I feel like there is no time. I have not fulfilled anything. I am just there.
The Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, Kwame Asare-Obeng, popularly known as A Plus, says the erstwhile New Patriotic Party (NPP) attempted to silence him after offering him a government-related job.
Speaking on Channel One TV‘s Upside Down on Sunday, May 4, A Plus said the party expected his outspokenness to diminish once he was given a role, but he remained vocal, which led to the termination of his appointment.
“The problem with the NPP is that they gave me a job expecting that now that you are eating, don’t talk. But they didn’t tell me that when they were giving me the job. I like talking more than eating,” he said.
He explained that the job involved oil lifting at the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company (BOST), but his constant criticism of the government quickly became a concern for party officials.
“One or two months into the business, they said I was talking too much. So they took the job away. As for pay, I got only one month,” he added.
Read also…
I’m with NDC for the long term; Mahama has good intentions – A Plus
Ghana Premier League: Hearts and Kotoko share points in Super clash
Featured
ghanafa.org
Sports News
2 minutes read
Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko battled to a goalless draw in a fiercely contested Premier League match at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, May 4, 2025.
Despite both sides creating numerous chances, neither could find the breakthrough in a match that was high on intensity but short on clinical finishing.
Coming into the encounter on the back of three consecutive defeats to their archrivals, Hearts of Oak were under significant pressure, especially amid a lacklustre season. Asante Kotoko, enjoying a more stable campaign, started the brighter of the two and asserted early dominance in the opening exchanges.
By the eighth minute, Kotoko had already threatened from two corners, although their headed efforts lacked precision. Defender Kelvin Osei Asibey made a crucial intervention to deny Kotoko a one-on-one opportunity, while Hearts goalkeeper Benjamin Asare was called into action multiple times in the first half, producing several key saves to keep the hosts level.
Hearts finished the first half the stronger of the two sides, showing greater urgency and cohesion heading into the break.
Despite Hearts of Oak edging possession with 51% and Kotoko registering more attempts on goal (10 to 5), both teams ultimately lacked the clinical edge required to claim all three points.
The draw sees Asante Kotoko maintain their position in fourth place, while Hearts of Oak remain sixth on the table.
For Hearts, the result further dims their already faint title hopes, while Kotoko continue to chase a top-three finish in what remains of the season.
Dennis Miracles Aboagye, Former Communication Director for Dr. Bawumia campaign team in the 2024 election has noted the historical significance of the protest.
Miracles Aboagye in a statement posted on his Facebook page today, May 3, 2025 drew parallels between the infamous 1982 murders of three judges incident carried out by the PNDC government and today’s political climate arguing that judicial intimidation remains a pressing concern.
As part of government’s newly-launched programme dubbed Blackstar Experience, there will be a soccer match to help boost sports tourism.
This announcement was made by Rex Omar, the Coordinator for the Blackstar Experience during the launch at the initiative on May 1, 2025.
“In Accra and Kumasi, we are going to create an exhibition match between legends of an international football club and legends of our national team in partnership with the private sector. This will happen at the Accra Sports Stadium and the Kumasi Sports Stadium. The first launch will happen in Europe, the second launch will happen in Ghana,” he said.
In his address, the Coordinator of the Blackstar Experience, Rex Owusu Marfo indicated that the Blackstar Experience was more than just a project, but rather a movement, a re-awakening of the national pride and an invitation to the world to experience the soul of Ghana.
He said Ghana had long been celebrated for its hospitality, history and dynamic cultural expressions: from the rhythmic beat of its music, to the captivating stories of its ancestors, from the bustling markets, to the serene landscape, indicating that these are things Ghana could offer to the world.
Rex further highlighted that the Blackstar Experience will be hinged on seven pillars: cinema, audio, cuisines, aesthetics, style, literature and heritage.
He said that the overarching vision of the Blackstar Experience Secretariat will be to align Ghana’s brand reputation with 20 most esteemed countries or country brands worldwide.
“It means we are going to rebrand Ghana to align with the world’s 20 successful countries when it comes to tourism,” he explained.
According to the veteran musician, the Secretariat will incorporate the Blackstar Experience framework into all facets of the nation’s initiatives across multiple sectors, elevate Ghana’s image as a preeminent and a preferred destination for global travelers, and transform Ghana into Africa’s cultural capital.
While some new programmes and products will be created, existing ones will also be amplified and fine-tuned to suit the objectives of the experience.
As part of the events earmarked for the Blackstar Experience, Rex Owusu Marfo indicated there will be collaborations with international organisations and groups like one in Atlanta which celebrates Blackstar Week every year.
“This is an opportunity to showcase Ghanaian talents, creative products, and to take advantage of partaking in investments, expos and meetings that exist,” he said.
He stated that there will also be the establishment of a multi-million dollar film studio called Ananse Studio, Ghana Music Week celebration, annual stakeholder meeting dubbed Creative Connect and Detty December.
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.
Saani Abdulai admitted to engaging in the illicit trade due to financial difficulties
Correspondence from Northern Region
The Tamale citizen-led Anti-Tramadol Taskforce, dedicated to combating the sale of illegal and highly addictive opioids, has arrested a policeman allegedly involved in the sale of tramadol.
The police officer, identified only as Saani Abdulai of the Sakasaka Police Station, was apprehended with six boxes of tramadol on Saturday during a special operation by the taskforce.
Chairman of the Taskforce, Alhaji Naziru Gbarigbari, told journalists that their intelligence had revealed the security officer possessed over 1,500 boxes of the opioid. However, they found only six boxes during the operation. He added that they suspect Abdulai is hiding more.
“Even though he mentioned having Tramadol 225mg when interacting with our undercover agent, we found only 125mg on him. We’re still interrogating him to know where he’s keeping the 225mg,” Alhaji Gbarigbari said.
“Initially, he didn’t want to admit he was a dealer. He tried to use his position as a police officer to intimidate us, but we outsmarted him,” he added.
Gbarigbari stated that the taskforce would hand Abdulai over to the police once their interrogation is complete. The Chairman of the Anti-Tramadol Taskforce called for continuous public support to help eradicate the tramadol trade in the Northern Region.
Saani Abdulai admitted to engaging in the sale of illegal opioids but was quick to clarify that he did so without the knowledge of the police service.
He explained that he entered the business due to financial difficulties.
“The police service doesn’t know I’m involved in this business. It’s something I do secretly. I went into this business because things were tough; I had no turning point,” he explained.
Defending champions Senegal face fellow West African rivals Ghana in what will be only their second-ever meeting at the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations at Suez Stadium on Monday (kick-off 21:00 local time; 18:00 GMT).
Their previous encounter came during the 2019 edition, where Senegal secured a 2-0 victory in the group stage thanks to a first-half brace from Youssouph Badji.
Ghana have only once before faced defending champions at the tournament, beating Egypt in the 1993 semi-finals.
Senegal have a strong record against fellow WAFU (West African) teams, having played 12 matches with a record of eight wins, two draws, and two losses. Both defeats came against Nigeria in 2015 – once in the group stage (3-1) and again in the final (1-0).
They are unbeaten in open play in their last eight matches against West African opposition, with seven wins and one draw – the latter a penalty shootout loss to Mali in the 2019 final.
Ghana, meanwhile, have faced West African rivals 26 times, recording 11 wins, three draws, and 12 losses.
Their recent form against WAFU teams has been less consistent, with just one win in their last four such matches – a semi-final victory over Gambia in 2021. They lost the other three.
SENEGAL FACTS · Senegal began their title defence with a 1-1 draw against the Central African Republic. It marked the fourth time they have drawn their opening match at the finals, having also done so in 1993, 1995, and 2017.
· Their record in second group matches is strong: six played, three wins, two draws, and just one loss – back in 1993, when they were beaten 3-1 by Ethiopia. Since then, they are unbeaten in second group matches across five tournaments. They drew with Burundi (1-1) in 1995 and Côte d’Ivoire (2-2) in 2015, and have won their last three second group games: 4-3 against South Africa in 2017, 2-0 against Ghana in 2019, and 3-0 against Mozambique in 2023. Notably, they have scored in every second group game they’ve played.
· A failure to win this match would mark the fourth time Senegal have gone winless in their first two group games. Previous instances occurred in 1993, 1995, and 2015.
· Senegal are unbeaten in their last 12 group stage matches (W9 D3), with their most recent group-stage defeat being a 3-1 loss to Nigeria in 2015.
· They have also scored in each of their last 15 group games – their last goalless group game was a 0-0 draw with Cameroon in 1995.
· Across all finals matches, Senegal are unbeaten in open play in their last 13 games (W11 D2). Their last defeat in regulation time was in the 2017 final against Zambia.
· In their draw with CAR, Ousmane Konate had the most touches (90) and completed the most passes (60) of any player on the pitch. Falliou Diouf was fouled six times, more than any other player in the game.
GHANA FACTS · Ghana opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo. After conceding in the 16th minute, Musibau Aziz equalized in the 24th.
· This draw ended a run of three consecutive tournament openers that Ghana had won – in 2015, 2019, and 2021.
· They have now won just one of their last six group matches at the finals – a 4-0 victory over Tanzania in their 2021 opener (D2 L3). Additionally, Ghana have failed to win their last three group matches against West African sides: a 2-1 loss to Gambia in 2021, and back-to-back defeats in 2019 to Senegal (2-0) and Mali (1-0).
· Historically, Ghana have fared well in their second group matches in the modern tournament format (since 1991), with a record of seven wins, three draws, and two losses in 12 such games. However, they have failed to win their second game at each of their last two tournament appearances – drawing 0-0 with Morocco in 2021 and losing 2-0 to Senegal in 2019.
· Ghana’s biggest second group game win remains their 5-0 triumph over Angola in 1999. Their only defeats in second group matches came in 1993 (vs Cameroon) and 2019 (vs Senegal).
· A failure to win here would mark the first time since 2011 that Ghana have failed to register a victory in their first two group games. In that year, they lost 2-1 to Nigeria before drawing 1-1 with Gambia. In every subsequent tournament – 2013, 2015, 2019, and 2021 – they have won at least one of their opening two matches.
· Against DRC, Ghana managed only two shots on target – both by goal scorer Aziz. Aaron Essel attempted 73 passes and completed 57 (78.1% accuracy), leading the team in both categories.
The mother of a South African girl, who disappeared aged six more than a year ago, has been convicted of kidnapping and trafficking her daughter.
Kelly Smith, her boyfriend Jacquen Appollis and their friend Steveno van Rhyn were arrested after Smith’s daughter, Joshlin, went missing from outside her home in Saldanha Bay, near Cape Town, in February last year.
Appollis and Van Rhyn were also found guilty on Friday of kidnapping and trafficking Joshlin. All three had previously pleaded not guilty to to these charges.
Joshlin’s disappearance sent shockwaves across South Africa and despite a highly publicised search for her, she is yet to be found.
During the trial, held in March, prosecutors accused Smith of having “sold, delivered or exchanged” Joshlin and then lied about her disappearance.
Smith wiped tears from her eyes when the guilty verdict was read, while Van Rhyn inexplicably broke into a smile.
Applause rippled through the packed courtroom and some onlookers began to cry.
Smith’s mother was in attendance and after the hearing finished, she said she was “angry” with her daughter and did not want to see her.
“She must tell me where my grandchild is,” Amanda Daniels-Smith told reporters.
Smith, Van Rhyn and Appollis could face life in prison – a date for sentencing is yet to be set.
In a statement following the judgment, the police said they would continue in their search for Joshlin.
The trial was held in Saldanha’s Multipurpose Centre to “ensure the community has access” to proceedings, Judge Nathan Erasmus, who presided over the case, said previously.
Ahead of the verdict, nearby roads had been closed, while police officers were deployed in and around the centre.
The trial captivated South Africa, with witnesses and prosecutors making a number of shocking allegations.
The most explosive came from Lourentia Lombaard, a friend and neighbour of Smith who turned state witness.
Ms Lombaard alleged that Smith told her she had done “something silly” and sold Joshlin to a traditional healer, known in South Africa as a “sangoma”.
The “person who [allegedly took] Joshlin wanted her for her eyes and skin”, Ms Lombaard told the court.
A local pastor testified that in 2023, he had heard Smith – a mother of three – talk of selling her children for 20,000 rand ($1,100; £850) each, though she had said she was willing to accept a lower figure of $275.
Joshlin’s teacher then alleged in court that Smith had told her during the search that her daughter was already “on a ship, inside a container, and they were on the way to West Africa”.
Smith’s lawyer, Rinesh Sivnarain, cast doubt on these allegations. He cited inconsistencies – recognised by the prosecution – in Ms Lombaard’s remarks and suggested she was an “opportunist”.
Smith, Appollis and Van Rhyn chose not to call any witnesses in their defence and did not take the stand during the trial.
Sangomas are legally recognised in South Africa under the Traditional Health Practitioners Act of 2007, alongside herbalists, traditional birth attendants and traditional surgeons.
Some charlatans are involved in unscrupulous traditional so-called cures, and have been known to sell good luck charms that involve body parts.
The allegation that Smith had discussed selling her daughter and had issues with drugs has prompted conversations about the vulnerability of children, particularly in South Africa’s poor communities.
In Joshlin’s community of Middelpos, parents have been telling local media that more than a year after the young girl’s disappearance, they are still concerned for their own children’s safety.
Ghanaians support media watchdog role despite waning trust – Afrobarometer Survey
Featured
Kweku Zurek
2 minutes read
The majority of Ghanaians continue to endorse the media’s role as a watchdog over government actions, even as confidence in press freedom and media trust declines, according to new data released by Afrobarometer to mark World Press Freedom Day 2025.
The survey, conducted by the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), revealed that 82 per cent of respondents believe the media should “constantly investigate and report on government mistakes and corruption.”
However, public perceptions of media independence have become increasingly uncertain, with 32 per cent of citizens now saying the press is “not very free” or “not at all” free – a sharp increase from 19 per cent in 2019.
“Most Ghanaians say the media should play an active role in reporting on government mistakes and corruption,” Afrobarometer noted in the report. “But at the same time, fewer citizens see the media as free and trustworthy.”
Two-thirds of respondents (67 per cent) still see Ghana’s media as either “somewhat” or “completely” free. Yet this reflects a growing sense of unease about political interference, especially when compared to earlier years.
Trust in news sources has also waned. Only 41 per cent of Ghanaians say they trust news from both privately owned and state-owned media “somewhat” or “a lot,” marking declines of 7 and 3 percentage points, respectively, since 2022. Even more striking is the drop in trust for social media as a news source, now standing at just 26 per cent – down 12 percentage points in two years.
Despite concerns about media credibility and independence, the public does not widely perceive a rise in direct threats against journalists.
Fewer than one-third of citizens reported an increase in threats or attacks against media personnel by political party supporters (32 per cent), ordinary citizens (28 per cent), or security forces (26 per cent) in the last two years.
The findings are based on face-to-face interviews with a nationally representative sample of 2,400 adult Ghanaians conducted in August 2024. The data carries a margin of error of +/-2 percentage points at a 95 per cent confidence level.
Afrobarometer, a pan-African research network, has been tracking public opinion on governance and democratic values across the continent since 1999. This latest release forms part of its Round 10 survey series, which began in January 2024 across several African countries.
Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A Plus and currently the Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, has revealed that his entry into music was motivated by a deep desire to be heard and to influence national discourse.
Speaking on Upside Down on Channel One TV on Sunday, May 4, A Plus explained that music served as a platform for him to amplify his voice and express his views on political and governance issues in the country.
“Doing music for me was just to have a voice to be able to express myself and be able to send a certain message across. That was the reason why I did music,” he said.
A Plus is widely known for politically-charged songs that boldly criticised public officials and governance systems. Among his popular tracks are Mframa in 2012 and Abɛn Bɛ Bom, which was produced by Appietus and released on September 2, 2016.
“I did all those songs because I wanted to be heard,” he reiterated.
According to A Plus, his leadership and activism began long before his music or political career. Reflecting on his days at Breman Secondary School, he recounted how he led a peaceful student protest that brought electricity to the campus for the first time.
“In school, I was a leader. When I went to Breman Asikuma Secondary School, I organised a demonstration to bring electricity to campus, the same electricity that they enjoy today, I brought it to the school. The school was not connected to the national grid, so I organised a demonstration,” he recalled.
He added that the nature of the protest left a strong impression on local authorities due to its discipline and constructive aim.
“I remember that the District Chief Executive came on campus and said that this is the first time she has seen students demonstrate something in the school because we did not destroy anything,” A Plus noted.
While polling suggests George Simion of the far-right Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR) party has the best prospects, none of the 11 candidates is expected to win an absolute majority straight away, meaning a run-off is likely.
Polling stations open at 6 am (0400 GMT) and close at 8 pm.
If necessary, a run-off between the two best-placed candidates in the first round would be held on May 18.
In the initial election in November, pro-Russian candidate Călin Georgescu won the first round, having campaigned largely on the online platform TikTok.
However, shortly before the scheduled run-off vote, the Constitutional Court annulled the first round due to irregularities in campaign financing.
Georgescu was also banned from running for president again and has been under investigation by the public prosecutor’s office since February for making false statements about his campaign financing.
It is unclear from advance polling who might emerge in second place after Sunday’s vote. Centre-right National Liberal Party (PNL) candidate Crin Antonescu, conservative-liberal Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan and former social-democratic prime minister Victor Ponta are all seen as possible contenders.
Favourite Simion says his aim is to ensure “justice” for Georgescu if he wins the election. He has not ruled out helping Georgescu into the office of prime minister.
In Romania, the president also shapes foreign and security policy.
Government has terminated existing contracts of all caterers under the School Feeding Program
