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In a recent appearance on JoyNews' PM Express, Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram and key sponsor of the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, Sam George, sought to clarify misconceptions surrounding the controversial legislation. Related To This: We’re Prepared to Face ‘Big 18’ in Court - Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill Advocates Expressing his frustration with what he perceived as misinformation and miseducation about the bill, Mr. George tackled various issues, including concerns about potential discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals in job applications. Challenging the notion that sexual orientation should impact job opportunities, he emphasized the privacy of individuals' personal lives: "Does anyone ask you who you slept with in your bedroom when applying for a job? What happens in the confines of your bedroom remains the business of you and your partner." Responding to claims that the bill would infringe on LGBTQ+ rights and safety, Mr. George ar...

Dancehall artiste Epixode has expressed his readiness to craft campaign songs for any political party that approaches him, regardless of the divisive nature of Ghanaian politics. In an interview, the musician stated that he would not hesitate to accept such offers but emphasized his desire to maintain creative autonomy without interference from the political party. READ ALSO: Corruption has Infiltrated the Music Industry - Reggie Rockstone Epixode clarified that he would only partake in projects that uplift and inspire hope in the Ghanaian population, focusing on positivity rather than overtly engaging in politics. During an appearance on Joy Prime’s Celeb Biz, the dancehall artist acknowledged the risks involved but viewed it as part of his job. He noted the unique situation in which celebrities in this region face potential backlash for revealing their political affiliations. He added, "If a political party approaches me for an anthem with a positive message, I would gladly do i...

On February 23, 2024, the Guinness World Records made a public declaration that Afua Asantewaa from Ghana did not succeed in her ambitious endeavor to break the record for the longest singing marathon, which she undertook in December 2023. According to Alina Polianskaya, the PR Executive for the Guinness World Records, Asantewaa's disqualification stemmed from a failure to adhere to the prescribed rest break timings, a key requirement for such marathon attempts. Polianskaya emphasized that these guidelines are uniform for all records related to extended endurance feats. Related To This: GWR Breached Our Contract by Announcing Sing-a-thon Results - Afua Asantewaa Despite the official statement, Asantewaa expressed her bewilderment in an interaction with Graphic Showbiz, stating that she had not been formally informed by the Guinness World Records about the specific grounds for her disqualification. As of February 26, she had not received any communication regarding this matter due ...

The recent remarks made by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, regarding Ghana's proposed "Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2024," are drawing significant attention. Türk expressed deep concern over the implications of this bill, which he described as profoundly disturbing. Related To This: Parliament Passes Controversial Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill After 3 Years of Deliberation In his statement, Türk highlighted several troubling aspects of the bill. He emphasized that the legislation not only expands the scope of criminal sanctions against individuals identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transexual, and queer (LGBTQ+), but also threatens legal repercussions for those perceived as allies of the LGBTQ+ community.  Türk called for the bill to be rejected before it becomes law, urging the Ghanaian Government to uphold the rights of all individuals to live free from violence, stigma, and discrimination, regardless of their sexual orientatio...

Prominent economist, administrator, and author Prof. Emeritus Stephen Adei has issued a warning against Chief of Staff Frema Osei Opare's selection as Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia's running mate. Prof. Adei has held important positions at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration, including Director General and Rector. Related To This: "Thank You For Projecting Me As A Potential Running Mate"- Chief of Staff Prof. Adei expressed his misgivings on the difficulties that would arise from Madam Osei Opare's inclusion on Dr. Bawumia's ticket, while acknowledging her leadership qualities. He was worried that Bawumia and Osei Opare together would be seen as just another arm of President Akufo-Addo's government, which could hurt Dr. Bawumia's chances of winning an election. In an interview on JoyNews' AM Show, the distinguished professor conveyed his opinion that selecting Osei Opare as the running mate could present a strategic disadvantage for ...

Conflicting explanations for the country's ongoing problems have resulted from disagreements between the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) regarding the current unstable state of the nation's power supply. Although the PURC asserted that fuel shortages affecting thermal plants were the cause of the supply issues, ECG angrily denied this. Energy sector sources say that the problems with the power supply are likely to continue, and Ghanaians should prepare for extended bouts of "dumsor".  Related To This: This Government Revived Dumsor - John Mahama Dr. Eric Obutey, the director of research at PURC, confirmed that stakeholders at the Ministry of Energy had discussed gasoline; however, Samuel Dubik Mahama, the director general of ECG, rejected the idea that fuel scarcity was the reason for the current state of affairs. Mahama emphasized that ECG is not implementing load shedding measures and assured the public that t...

Virginia Palmer, the US ambassador to Ghana, recently voiced her grave concerns about the anti-LGBT bill's passage by the Ghanaian parliament. The anti-LGBT bill, which is actually intended to support human sexual rights and family values, has caused concern since it severely restricts activities related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals.  Related To This:  U.S. Warns of Economic Fallout as Ghana Enacts Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill In addition to making these actions illegal, the law also makes it illegal for them to be funded, advocated for, or promoted within the nation. Ms. Palmer highlighted that the measure violates everyone's rights in a tweet posted by the US Embassy in Ghana on an undisclosed date. She specifically mentioned how the bill affects freedom of expression, assembly, and She outlined the negative consequences of the bill, emphasizing that if it were to become law, it would not only violate the fundamental human rights of LGBT people but also ...

Following the parliamentary passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2021 on Wednesday, February 28, Samuel Nartey George, the bill's lead sponsor, has called upon President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to officially sign the bill into law, emphasizing the importance of prompt action to enact the legislation. Related To This: Parliament Passes Controversial Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill After 3 Years of Deliberation In his statement to the Parliamentary Press Corps after the bill's successful passage, the Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC) expressed the collective support and endorsement from MPs for the bill. He specifically thanked his fellow legislators and acknowledged the significant role played by Mr. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, a former Majority Leader, in ensuring the bill’s progression through Parliament. Highlighting the unity demonstrated by MPs during the bill's legislative journey, George stressed the bi...

Former Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Prof. Stephen Adei, has voiced criticism of President Akufo-Addo's handling of corruption in the country. According to the economist, President Akufo-Addo has not effectively addressed the issue of corruption during his tenure. Related To This: "Akufo-Addo Is A Failure In Corruption Fight"– Ishmael Yamson Prof. Adei rated President Akufo-Addo's anti-corruption efforts a five out of ten when compared to previous administrations. He highlighted that establishing anti-corruption institutions alone is not sufficient; what is crucial is the commitment to actively combat corruption. In an interview on the JoyNews AM Show, Prof. Adei stressed the importance of implementing more comprehensive measures to tackle corruption effectively under the current administration. He emphasized that holding individuals accountable for corrupt practices, regardless of their position, is essential in the fi...

'Big 18' civil society groups, who plan to file a lawsuit if President Akufo-Addo passes the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law, are preparing for a potential judicial battle with proponents of the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values bill. The 'Big 18' have fiercely protested the law, claiming that it infringes upon Ghana's rich religious and cultural diversity. The bill aims to make LGBTQI+ activities illegal in Ghana; offenders might face up to three years in prison and those who encourage them could face up to five years in prison. Related To This: Parliament Passes Controversial Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill After 3 Years of Deliberation Tensions have increased since Parliament unanimously approved the anti-LGBTQ+ measure on February 28 after nearly three years of debate. MPs blocked attempts to replace jail terms with community work and therapy. Audrey Gadzekpo, Board Chair of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development and a member of the Coalition, emphasized their readi...

Following the enactment of the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill by Ghana's parliament, the United States has issued a warning about potential dire implications for the Ghanaian economy.  The sponsors of the bill are anticipating swift presidential assent to implement the legislation, despite concerns raised by human rights organizations like the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) regarding possible human rights violations. Related To This: Parliament Passes Controversial Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill After 3 Years of Deliberation Emmanuel Kwesi Bedzrah, a key sponsor of the bill, responded to questions about international repercussions by highlighting the country's economic challenges and referencing Uganda's similar experience with international pressure. He expressed readiness for any sanctions from international organizations, emphasizing Ghana's sovereignty. However, the U.S. Department of State spokesperson expressed deep concern over...

After nearly three years of deliberation, Parliament has officially passed the highly debated Anti-LGBTQ+ bill, culminating in its unanimous approval on Wednesday, February 28, following the successful completion of the third reading. During the parliamentary session, the proposed amendments to the bill were met with rejection by Speaker Alban Bagbin, solidifying the bill's journey towards enactment. The pivotal legislative decision now paves the way for the bill to be transmitted to President Akufo-Addo for his ultimate assent. Related To This: Minority Caucus Issues Ultimatum on Approval of Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill The Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, initially withdrew various suggested amendments to the bill on February 21. However, during the final parliamentary session, Afenyo-Markin reiterated his position on certain provisions within the bill, specifically voicing his concerns against clauses that may inhibit individuals or groups from extending support to vulnerable membe...

The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has revealed slight modifications to electricity tariffs for residential consumers in its latest tariff review for the first quarter of 2024. The adjustments involve no changes for lifeline consumers (0-30 kWh) and those within the 0-300 kWh consumption range. Related To This: Expect 0.34% Increase In Water Tariffs And 1.52% Decrease In Electricity Tariffs From December 1 - PURC As detailed in a statement by the PURC, residential customers consuming 301 kWh and above will encounter a modest reduction of 6.56% in their electricity tariffs. In contrast, non-residential consumers falling within the 0-300 kWh consumption bracket will not witness any alterations in their tariff rates. The statement also confirmed that water tariffs across all customer categories will remain unchanged during this period. The tariff adjustments were communicated through a press release authored by Dr. Ishmael Ackah, the Executive Secretary of the PURC, and mad...

Former assembly member Nii Armah Ashitey of the Adobetor electoral area in La Dadekotpon Municipality has appeared before an Accra Circuit Court on charges that he stole GH₵500,000 that a foundation had set aside for the construction of roads and drainage systems. Related To This: Former GWCL Worker Arrested For Allegedly Stealing Iron Pipes Worth GH¢299k In relation to the alleged fraudulent actions, the 63-year-old former assembly member is accused with money laundering, using public position for personal advantage, and deceiving by false pretenses. Ashitey has entered a not guilty plea to the accusations leveled against him, notwithstanding the claims. Ashitey was granted bail in the amount of GH₵500,000 with two sureties during the court hearings presided over by Mr. Isaac Addo. The case was then postponed to April 2, 2024, in order to allow for additional legal proceedings. According to the prosecution led by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Seth Frimpong, the complainants...

The Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, expressed readiness for a constructive debate with optimism as he addressed the Minority's responses to President Akufo-Addo's State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered on February 27, 2024. As per Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, the annual State of the Nation Address is a constitutional requirement that mandates the President to present an overview of the country's economic, social, and financial status at the commencement and conclusion of each Parliamentary session. Related To This: SONA 2024: Ghanaians Won’t Miss You – Ato Forson to Akufo-Addo President Akufo-Addo's recent SONA encompassed various key points, including commitments to ensuring credible elections, enhancing the Free Senior High School policy, and completing the Kumasi Airport project by May. Following the President's address, the Effutu Constituency Member of Parliament and Majority Leader urged for a scheduled debate on the SONA, pro...

President Akufo-Addo has been criticized by finance professor Godfred Bokpin of the University of Ghana Business School for his claim that Ghana's macroeconomic indices are improving. The President emphasized, citing encouraging signs, the macroeconomy's strength at the end of 2023 in comparison to the prior year during this year's State of the Nation Address. Prof. Bokpin, however, voiced skepticism on the nation's economic development when appearing on JoyNews' PM Express. Related To This: Ofori-Atta No Longer Deserves a Place in Gov't – Prof. Bopkin He observed a tendency since the Fourth Republic's founding of setting the groundwork but not making significant strides toward sustainable growth. The lecturer questioned how Ghanaians' lives were affected by continuous cycles of reconstruction and restoration, highlighting the necessity of tracking advancements in living standards and the decline in poverty. Prof Bokpin highlighted significant economic s...

Hearts of Oak has officially dissolved its board of directors, ending the 12-year reign of Togbui Afede XIV, according to a club statement. Important people like Dr. Nyaho Tamakloe, Alhaji Moro Braimah (Akanbi), and Vincent Odotei Sowah have left the club after years of public scrutiny. Related To This: GFA Sacks Chris Hughton and Dissolves Black Stars Technical Team Frank Nelson Nwokolo, Togbui Afede XIV, Alhaji Alhassan Andani, Thomas Kwesi Esso, Alhaji Moro Adamu, Vincent Sowah-Odotei, and Dr. Nyaho-Nyaho Tamakloe are the board members who are leaving. The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Hearts of Oak, which was scheduled for February, has been rescheduled until March. According to reports, the ongoing process of identifying suitable individuals to replace the outgoing board members may be partly responsible for the delay. Notably, recent fan protests against the executive chairman Togbui Afede and the board of directors sparked worries about the caliber of the club's leadership...

President Akufo-Addo has urged critics to shift their focus from criticizing the Free SHS policy towards finding ways to enhance its effectiveness. During his national address, he emphasized that the Free SHS initiative has been successful and transformative, providing educational opportunities that go beyond the basic level of formal education. The President defended the Free SHS policy, highlighting its achievement in unearthing talents that might have otherwise been overlooked. He praised the program for dispelling fears of declining educational standards, especially evidenced by the positive outcomes reflected in the 2023 WASSCE results. Related To This: Gov't Must Acknowledge Funding Issues Surrounding Free SHS - IFEST Acknowledging the policy's impact, President Akufo-Addo expressed gratitude for the program's contribution to the development of a more skilled workforce. He emphasized that even for students who do not pursue further education after Senior High School,...

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced a significant revision to the balance and transaction limits of customers' mobile money wallets, set to take effect from March 1, 2024. This move comes as a response to the growing trends in transactional activities and evolving customer demands within the digital payment landscape. Related To This: Government Announces The Revision Of The Electronic Transfer Levy. The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications conveyed this update, highlighting the adjustments aimed at accommodating the increasing volume of mobile money transactions and catering to the shifting needs of customers across the country. In the revised limits, daily transaction thresholds for different account tiers have been adjusted upwards to align with the changing financial behaviors and requirements of mobile money users. Here's a breakdown of the updated limits: Minimum Account - Previous Daily Limit: GH¢2,000 - Revised Daily Limit: GH¢3,000 - Previous Maximum Limit: GH¢3...

Minister of Trade and Industry, Kobina Tahir Hammond, has made a bold assertion that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is destined to remain in opposition indefinitely, citing their lack of innovative ideas and tendency to obstruct positive initiatives proposed by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) out of envy and ignorance. In a statement to the media following President Akufo-Addo's State of the Nation Address on Tuesday, February 27, Mr. Hammond emphasized that the NDC's disconnect from the aspirations of Ghanaians will keep them out of power for an extended period. Related To This: Trade Minister Meets With Cement Producers to Address Pricing Concerns Expressing confidence in President Akufo-Addo's leadership, Minister Hammond praised the NPP's flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, as instrumental in guiding Ghana towards stability amid current economic challenges. He urged the public not to be swayed by what he labeled as NDC propaganda, pointing out former President ...

Cletus Avoka, the Zebilla member of parliament, has discussed the difficulties experienced by legislators and highlighted the ongoing financial pressures they confront as a major cause of the alleged corruption in the parliamentary system. During an interview with Starr FM on February 26, Mr. Avoka discussed how MPs are under constant pressure to avoid possibly corrupt activities due to the persistent financial requests from constituents. Related To This: Bawumia Should Have a Strong Anti-Corruption Stance - Manasseh Azure He stressed that many Members of Parliament are compelled to divert their attention from their legislative responsibilities to other sources of income due to the persistent demands for financial support, which range from medical bills to payments for weddings and school tuition. Mr. Avoka articulated the dilemma faced by MPs, where the need to respond to constituents' financial appeals often overshadows their primary role in lawmaking. The pervasive nature of th...

In the recent State of the Nation Address by President Akufo-Addo, the Minority in Parliament has raised objections to some of the claims made during the speech.  While the President covered various topics like the Bawku conflict, Free SHS, constitutional amendments, Ghana’s IMF deal, healthcare, elections, and transportation, the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, pointed out the omission of addressing the country's unemployment crisis. Related To This: President Akufo-Addo to Deliver State of the Nation Address to Parliament Tomorrow During a parliamentary session on February 27, Dr. Forson highlighted the concerning unemployment figures in Ghana. He mentioned that out of a population of 33 million, only 11.3 million are employed, which includes peasant farmers. The stark contrast between the total population and those employed reflects a significant portion of Ghanaians facing unemployment, which he referred to as "Nija," representing those without income, jobs,...

The Ghana Football Association's Executive Council has appointed Gideon Fosu as the chairman of the Local Organizing Committee for the WAFU U-17 Cup of Nations, set to take place in Accra in 2024. Fosu, a member of the GFA's Executive Council and the Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Division One League side Kings Palace FC, will lead the committee in organizing the prestigious tournament. Related To This: AFCON 2023: Local Organizing Committee for 13th African Games Donates To Black Stars Assisting Fosu will be Robert Duncan, the chairman of the Central Regional Football Association, along with Paul Ayamba, Business Development Officer of Premier League side FC Samartex, Leslie Kuuku Bartels, President of Division One League side Victory Club Warriors, and Nana Asante Bismark of Wamanafo Mighty Royals. The Committee's primary task is to develop comprehensive plans, programs, and a roadmap for the successful execution of the tournament scheduled to take place ...