Former Second Lady Matilda Amissah-Arthur, widow of the late former Vice President Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur, has given a chilling account of a robbery that almost ended her life.
On Tuesday, December 5, 2023, an intruder broke into her bedroom, demanding money and making threats.
In a video testimony, Mrs. Amissah-Arthur described the terrifying moment the attacker revealed his intentions after a phone call with his boss.
“He spoke on the phone for a couple of minutes and said, ‘My boss says I should shoot you, but I won’t shoot you. I will strangle you so that you’ll die a slow death and next time you come, you’ll have money.’ So, he started strangling me,” she recounted.
Amidst the ordeal, Mrs. Amissah-Arthur asked for water. In a bizarre act, the attacker fetched water from her fridge and allowed her to drink before resuming his attack.
“I got thirsty at some point, and I said, ‘I am thirsty.’ He stopped strangling me, went to my fridge for water, opened it, and put it in my mouth. Just when I started drinking, he snapped it, closed it, and continued strangling me.”
The police are currently investigating the robbery, and there are calls for increased security measures to protect residents from similar attacks.
Former Second Lady Matilda Amissah-Arthur, widow of the late Vice President Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur, has shared a chilling account of the threats she faced during a home invasion on December 5, 2023.
In a video that captured her testimony, Mrs. Amissah-Arthur described how the intruder menaced her with the potential harm to anyone who might come to her aid.
“I thought I was dreaming. So, I sat on my bed and rubbed my face just to be sure that I wasn’t dreaming. And there he was standing there, and he said, ‘If you shout and somebody comes, I’ll kill them and kill you.’ So, I was sitting on my bed, and he said, ‘Give me the money,’” she recounted.
The intruder’s threats forced Mrs. Amissah-Arthur into compliance, handing over $2,200 and 50 euros. Despite this, the robber was not satisfied and turned her room upside down searching for more valuables.
“We were renovating our mother’s house so my siblings brought money, and the money was with me. Quickly, I took the $2,200 dollars and gave him, and I had 50 euros of my own and I gave him, and I took my purse, gave the cedis to him, then he counted the money and said, ‘This small money.’”
“He got angry. He turned my room upside down, and of course, he didn’t find money or any jewelry. And then he said, ‘You wasted my time, so I will kill you. But I have to call my boss.’ By this time, he had dragged me from the bed and was hitting my head on the ground,” she continued.
Mrs. Amissah-Arthur’s experience underscores the extreme danger posed by such violent criminals. In a harrowing twist, the attacker communicated with an accomplice who directed him to kill her, which he attempted by strangulation after deciding against using a firearm.
“He spoke on the phone for a couple of minutes and said, ‘My boss says I should shoot you, but I won’t shoot you. I will strangle you so that you’ll die a slow death and next time you come, you’ll have money.’ So, he started strangling me.”
Even after Mrs. Amissah-Arthur requested water, the intruder’s temporary act of mercy was followed by a return to violence. “I got thirsty at some point, and I said, ‘I am thirsty.’ He stopped strangling me, went to my fridge for water, opened it, and put it in my mouth. Just when I started drinking, he snapped it, closed it, and continued strangling me.”
The police are investigating the incident, while citizens call for better security to prevent such traumatic experiences.
Former Second Lady Matilda Amissah-Arthur, the widow of the late former Vice President Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur, has shared a harrowing account of a robbery that nearly claimed her life. The incident occurred in her bedroom on Tuesday, December 5, 2023.
In a video testimony, Mrs. Amissah-Arthur detailed the terrifying encounter with an intruder dressed in black who broke into her room, demanding money and threatening to kill her and anyone who might intervene.
“I thought I was dreaming. So, I sat on my bed and rubbed my face just to be sure that I wasn’t dreaming. And there he was standing there, and he said, ‘If you shout and somebody comes, I’ll kill them and kill you.’ So, I was sitting on my bed, and he said, ‘Give me the money,’” Mrs. Amissah-Arthur recounted.
She complied, handing over $2,200 and 50 euros, but the robber was dissatisfied and began ransacking her room for more valuables.
“We were renovating our mother’s house so my siblings brought money, and the money was with me. Quickly, I took the $2,200 dollars and gave him, and I had 50 euros of my own and I gave him, and I took my purse, gave the cedis to him, then he counted the money and said, ‘This small money.’”
“He got angry. He turned my room upside down, and of course, he didn’t find money or any jewelry. And then he said, ‘You wasted my time, so I will kill you. But I have to call my boss.’ By this time, he had dragged me from the bed and was hitting my head on the ground,” she continued.
In a chilling twist, the attacker spoke on the phone and received instructions to kill her. “He spoke on the phone for a couple of minutes and said, ‘My boss says I should shoot you, but I won’t shoot you. I will strangle you so that you’ll die a slow death and next time you come, you’ll have money.’ So, he started strangling me.”
Amidst the ordeal, Mrs. Amissah-Arthur asked for water. In a bizarre act, the attacker fetched water from her fridge and allowed her to drink before resuming his attack. “I got thirsty at some point, and I said, ‘I am thirsty.’ He stopped strangling me, went to my fridge for water, opened it, and put it in my mouth. Just when I started drinking, he snapped it, closed it, and continued strangling me.”
The traumatic event has shocked the nation, raising concerns about security and the safety of citizens in their own homes. Mrs. Amissah-Arthur’s brave recounting of the incident highlights the severe threat posed by such violent crimes.
The police are currently investigating the robbery, and there are calls for increased security measures to protect residents from similar attacks.
The diversion of the Ayensu River by a contractor working on the Kasoa-Cape Coast Highway has led to significant destruction, with three buildings collapsing and over 150 houses and farmlands submerged.
The problem began on Wednesday, June 5, when the river’s diversion affected a bridge spanning the Ayensu River. Originating from the Eastern Region, the river flows across the Accra-Cape Coast Highway at Gomoa Okyereko in the Gomoa East District of the Central Region and eventually into the sea.
The diversion caused the main Accra-Cape Coast Highway to cave in, stranding commuters on Thursday morning, June 6.
Robert Hackman, the Gomoa East District Director for the National Disaster Management Organisation (NaDMO), described the destruction’s extent to Citi News’ Calvis Tetteh and urged motorists to use alternative routes until the road is restored.
“Currently, three houses have collapsed and almost 150 houses have been submerged, and as it stands now, it hasn’t been easy,” Hackman said. “This morning, we came around 3 am hoping that the water would go down, but part of the bridge has collapsed totally, so we are appealing to motorists coming from Cape Coast to use the Winneba Junction route and appear at Akotsi Junction. Motorists should not use the Potsin-Okyereko stretch.”
The incident has caused significant disruption and poses a challenge for local authorities as they work to address the damage and restore normalcy.
NaDMO and other agencies are monitoring the situation closely and providing assistance to affected residents.
Excitement filled the air in a household in Okaikwei North when Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer, made a surprise visit as part of his door-to-door campaign tour.
The visit brought joy and hope to the women in the household, who expressed their appreciation for the gesture.
During the visit, one of the women shared her optimism about the future under Dr. Bawumia’s leadership, saying, “Kenkey will be purchased at GHS2 when Dr. Bawumia becomes president.”
This promise of more affordable staple food added to the excitement and support for the NPP Flagbearer.
Dr. Bawumia was accompanied by the NPP Parliamentary Candidate for the Okaikwei North constituency, Hon. Nana Ama Dokua Asiamah-Adjei.
The door-to-door campaign aims to connect with voters at a grassroots level, emphasizing personal interaction and direct engagement with the community.
The visit and the women’s reactions highlight the impact of Dr. Bawumia’s campaign strategy. As the election approaches, such interactions play a crucial role in garnering support and building trust among voters.
Some women in a household in Okaikwei North of the Greater Accra Region couldn't contain their joy as they expressed their appreciation when the NPP Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, paid them a surprise visit yesterday.
The High Court in Accra has ruled that the secret audio recording between Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame and Richard Jakpa does not endanger a fair trial in the ongoing ambulance case involving Minority Leader Cassiel Ato Forson.
The court admitted the secret recording but found no basis to conclude that the conversation would prejudice the trial’s outcome. It also found that the alleged statements implicating Ato Forson did not come from the Attorney-General.
The judge focused on whether the conversation posed a real threat to the fairness of the trial and concluded it did not.
The court stated, “The most important factor in this case is whether fair trial has been endangered or prejudiced. Is there any evidence that the conversation between the parties can reasonably endanger a fair trial? Judge says no.”
Dr. Ato Forson had submitted a supplementary affidavit, citing the leaked recording as evidence of misconduct by the Attorney-General.
His legal team argued that the recording, where the Attorney-General allegedly coached Jakpa to implicate Ato Forson, warranted a mistrial.
They insisted, “It has become necessary to file this affidavit in order to bring to the attention of the Court and in the interest of justice, certain pertinent, material, and relevant matters that have a bearing on the fair and just determination of the current application.”
However, the court dismissed the application, stating that there was no statute supporting a mistrial in this context. The judge emphasized that mistrials are relevant only in jury trials, not in summary trials like this one.
“Court has no jurisdiction to undertake an enquiry into the conduct of the Attorney-General. Jurisdiction in criminal proceedings must be implied. It cannot be inferred. It must be by law. There is no such law. On the invitation of A1 for the Court to order a mistrial. Court says it does not apply in summary trials. It applies only in jury trials. Applicant did not refer the court to any authority in Ghana or anywhere for a mistral in summary trials. On the contrary, the Respondent rightly, as stated by the judge, referred the court to a Ghanaian case. None of the grounds for a mistrial exists in this case.”
The judge also noted the long duration of the trial, questioning how a recent alleged interference could justify halting proceedings that have been ongoing for over three years.
The ruling ensures that the trial will continue without interruption, maintaining that the judicial process remains fair and unprejudiced.
The High Court in Accra has ruled that it cannot investigate Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame’s conduct in the ongoing ambulance case involving Minority Leader Cassiel Ato Forson.
The court emphasized that there is no legal provision allowing such an inquiry in criminal proceedings.
Dr. Ato Forson filed a supplementary affidavit on June 3, seeking a mistrial and a stay of proceedings.
His request was based on a leaked tape where the Attorney-General allegedly coached the third accused, Richard Jakpa, to implicate him. Ato Forson’s legal team argued that this behaviour warranted an investigation and a mistrial.
The court dismissed these requests. The judge stated that jurisdiction in criminal cases must be established by law, not inferred. The judge also noted that mistrials are applicable only in jury trials, not summary trials.
“Court has no jurisdiction to undertake an enquiry into the conduct of the Attorney-General. Jurisdiction in criminal proceedings must be implied. It cannot be inferred. It must be by law. There is no such law.” the judge is quoted to have said.
“On the application to prevent the Attorney-General from instituting criminal proceedings, the court is cautious in injuncting constitutional bodies from performing their functions. The applicant has demonstrated any serious basis for such an order. It is this dismissed,” the judge added.
Regarding the leaked tape, the judge acknowledged its admission but found no evidence that the Attorney-General’s words implicated Ato Forson. The judge stressed that the fairness of the trial had not been compromised.
“On the admissibility of the secret recording, because it is a criminal proceeding, it would be admitted. However, having admitted the weight to be attached is something else. The court finds that the words regarding whether the Attorney-General asked A3 to help him to make a case against A1, did not come out of the mouth of the Attorney-General,” she added.
The court concluded that there was no basis for a mistrial or an inquiry into the Attorney-General’s conduct. The proceedings will continue as planned.
The High Court in Accra has dismissed the application by Minority Leader Cassiel Ato Forson for a mistrial and an investigation into the Attorney-General’s conduct in the ongoing ambulance case.
The judge ruled that Ato Forson did not provide any legal basis for a mistrial or an inquiry into the Attorney-General’s actions.
On June 3, Dr. Ato Forson submitted a supplementary affidavit supporting his motion for a mistrial and a stay of proceedings.
His lawyers cited a leaked tape between Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame and the third accused, Richard Jakpa. They claimed the tape revealed the Attorney-General coaching Jakpa to implicate Ato Forson.
In the affidavit, Ato Forson’s legal team argued that the Attorney-General‘s behaviour warranted a mistrial.
They stated, “It has become necessary to file this affidavit in order to bring to the attention of the Court and in the interest of justice, certain pertinent, material, and relevant matters that have a bearing on the fair and just determination of the current application.”
The court, however, rejected these claims. The judge noted that criminal jurisdiction must be established by law and cannot be inferred.
The judge also pointed out that mistrials apply only in jury trials, not summary trials like this one.
The judge questioned how an alleged interference by the Attorney-General, occurring only recently, could lead to a mistrial in a case ongoing for over three years. The court also refused to prevent the Attorney-General from instituting criminal proceedings, citing a lack of serious basis for such an order.
“On the invitation of A1 for the Court to order a mistrial. Court says it does not apply in summary trials. It applies only in jury trials. Applicant did not refer the court to any authority in Ghana or anywhere for a mistral in summary trials. On the contrary, the Respondent rightly, as stated by the judge, referred the court to a Ghanaian case. None of the grounds for a mistrial exists in this case.,” the judge said.
“In a trial that has gone on for over 3 years, in which the Republic has closed its case, A1 closed his case and A3 started testimony, how can the alleged interference by the Attorney-General with A3, which is alleged to have occurred only a few weeks ago when either A3 has started testifying, lead to a mistrial? Application for mistrial is therefore dismissed,” the judge ruled.
While the court admitted the secret recording, it found that the words allegedly implicating Ato Forson did not come from the Attorney-General.
The judge emphasized that the key issue was whether the trial’s fairness had been compromised, and concluded that there was no evidence to support this.
The application for a mistrial was dismissed, and the court maintained that the proceedings would continue.
Former Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Koku Anyidoho, has once again taken to social media platform X to express his views on the political scene.
This time, his focus is on Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Vice President of Ghana, and his campaign strategies.
Anyidoho posted a video showing a group of enthusiastic individuals chanting Dr. Bawumia’s name and screaming, “We want Bawumia.”
So where is Bawumia getting all these campaign ideas from? Look at the “pali-pali” manner in which he is connecting to the grassroots? Honestly, I am bemused! This is really HOT🔥🔥🔥💪💪💪 pic.twitter.com/9OrTEnKVNd
— Samuel Koku Anyidoho🇬🇭 (@KokuAnyidoho) June 5, 2024
In his post, Anyidoho seemed intrigued by the Vice President‘s approach to connecting with the grassroots.
“So where is Bawumia getting all these campaign ideas from? Look at the ‘pali-pali’ manner in which he is connecting to the grass roots? Honestly, I am bemused! This is really HOT,” Anyidoho wrote.
Anyidoho’s comments come at a time when political campaigns are intensifying, with candidates employing various strategies to engage with voters.
As a former Deputy General Secretary of the NDC, Anyidoho’s public statements often draw significant attention. His praise for the current administration and criticism of Mahama continue to fuel discussions within the political landscape.
As the election season heats up, such endorsements, even from unexpected quarters, could play a significant role in shaping public perception and voter support.
This latest post adds to the series of public expressions by Anyidoho that underscore his estrangement from the NDC and his evolving political stance.
While skyrocketing food prices that have left many Ghanaians struggling, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has strongly criticized Bryan Acheampong, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, for prioritizing the purchase of SSNIT hotels over addressing the urgent food crisis.
In a recent post on X, Ablakwa expressed his frustration over Acheampong’s involvement in what he describes as a “stinking transaction.”
“It is a national tragedy that instead of Ghana’s Food & Agriculture Minister, Bryan Acheampong, concentrating on urgent policy interventions to resolve skyrocketing food prices, his focus is rather on an ill-fated effort to purchase our SSNIT hotels,” Ablakwa wrote.
“He refuses to back out of the stinking transaction, which has outraged many Ghanaians and been equally condemned by organised labour.”
The timing of Ablakwa’s criticism coincides with reports of significant increases in food prices, particularly in the capital, Accra.
Recent data indicates that the price of a box of tomatoes has surged by 360% in less than six months, rising from GHC 1500 in January 2024 to GHC 6000 – GHC 7000 in June 2024.
This sharp increase has placed additional strain on households already grappling with economic challenges.
It is a national tragedy that instead of Ghana’s Food & Agriculture Minister, Bryan Acheampong concentrating on urgent policy interventions to resolve skyrocketing food prices, his focus is rather on an ill-fated effort to purchase our SSNIT hotels, as he refuses to back out of… pic.twitter.com/xf1SoEmaxe
— Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa (@S_OkudzetoAblak) June 6, 2024
Poultry Industry Struggles
The crisis extends beyond just tomatoes. Yesterday, the Chief Executive Officer of Joerees Farms & Foods, Joseph Boakye-Yiadom, warned consumers of an impending sharp increase in egg prices due to soaring production costs. In an interview with JoyNews, Boakye-Yiadom highlighted the economic pressures facing the poultry industry, detailing substantial increases in the costs of essential inputs like maize and soybean meal.
“The Ghana poultry industry is in great distress at the moment. This increase is a result of our production input. For example, maize started this year in January, selling at between 190 and 200 cedis per 50 kg, but as I speak with you, it is between 260–270 cedis. Soybean meal started the year around 410–420, and now it’s about 520–530,” Boakye-Yiadom explained.
To sustain operations, poultry farmers will need to adjust egg prices accordingly, with Boakye-Yiadom indicating that consumers should expect to pay between 70 and 75 cedis per crate from retailers in the coming months.
Ablakwa’s comments reflect a broader public outrage over the government’s handling of the food crisis. Many Ghanaians are calling for immediate action to stabilize prices and ensure food security.
Organised labour groups have also condemned the government’s focus on transactions perceived as self-serving, urging the administration to prioritize the welfare of the citizens.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has raised fresh concerns over the sale of SSNIT hotels, asserting that the process is marred by mismanagement and favoritism.
Ablakwa, in a recent social media post, disclosed that Rock City Hotel, a hotel owned by a member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), declared losses in 2023, contrasting sharply with the profits reported by the Labadi Beach Hotel.
“Intercepted GRA filings reveal that the NPP’s much-hyped Rock City Hotel declared losses in 2023,” Ablakwa stated. “This is the same year Labadi Beach Hotel made profits in excess of GHS158 million.”
Ablakwa’s post comes amidst heightened scrutiny of the sale, which he alleges is not about saving struggling hotels but rather capturing profitable national assets for personal gain. He urged Ghanaians to question the motives behind the sale and highlighted the discrepancies in the financial performance of the hotels involved.
“Don’t believe the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government when they tell you this sleazy deal is about Bryan Acheampong’s Rock City saving SSNIT’s struggling hotels,” Ablakwa argued. “It’s all about capturing profitable and iconic national brands for themselves. It’s never been about the interest of Ghanaian workers and pensioners.”
The MP has been a vocal critic of the sale, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in managing public assets. He called on citizens to join in opposing the transaction, labeling it as unpatriotic and harmful to the interests of Ghanaian workers and pensioners.
“We shall stop this unpatriotic, senseless and deleterious sale!” he declared, rallying support for a demonstration scheduled for June 18. “Our June 18 DEMO is loading 🔥🔥🔥.”
Ablakwa’s statements have intensified the debate over the management of SSNIT assets, with many awaiting further developments and responses from the government and other stakeholders.
The controversy surrounding the sale of SSNIT hotels has been ongoing, with various stakeholders questioning the rationale and transparency of the process. SSNIT, responsible for managing pension funds in Ghana, has faced criticism for its handling of investments and assets, prompting calls for reforms and better governance.
Veteran Nigerian actor and lawyer, Anayo Modestus Onyekwere, known as Kanayo O. Kanayo, has spoken out about the disappearance and alleged murder of Ghanaian Afibah Tandoh and her Nigerian friend, Celine Chidinma Ndidum, in Abia State, Nigeria.
The two victims were reportedly in Aba, the capital of Abia State, to meet a business partner. They were last seen in April, with reports suggesting they were killed by the man they went to visit.
The suspect, Andrew Amaechi Ochekwo, was killed by police after attempting to escape custody while being transported to Abuja.
In a video posted on social media, Kanayo expressed his distress over the incident, highlighting the risks associated with forming friendships and meeting people through social media.
He lamented, “I come to you with a heavy heart because of bad news emanating from Aba. I ask myself, can you really advise these Gen Z, current generation on friendship?”
He continued by questioning the safety of such interactions, recalling a similar case involving a woman named Cynthia who disappeared after traveling to Lagos to meet a boyfriend she had met online.
“Now we have Celine and Afibah from Ghana, that’s not a good one. I don’t know what they call runs or hookup,” he stated, stressing that economic challenges should not justify risking one’s life.
Kanayo, addressing young women, advised, “Hard work is what it takes, whether you like it or not, truth is bitter and young girls must be appreciated, especially those doing small businesses to survive.”
He also warned those who prey on others, asserting, “To those of you preying, the law will catch up with you.”
Generation Z, referred to as Gen Z, includes individuals born between 1995 and 2010. This generation, also known as “zoomers,” is noted for its extensive use of the internet.
The tragic deaths of Celine and Afibah have sparked conversations about the safety of meeting people online and the importance of caution in such interactions.
A shocking incident has left a family in Ejura seeking justice for their son, Agyekum. Allegedly assaulted by prison officers and inmates, Agyekum’s ordeal unfolded in a disturbing video that has sparked outrage.
In the video, men dressed in prison officer uniforms and others in orange attire—presumably inmates—viciously beat a defenseless man in white. Residents, witnessing the brutality, shouted in disbelief, “What is this? What at all is this!” in the local Twi dialect.
According to a woman, who appears to be part of Agyekum’s family, the incident occurred when he encountered the prison officers and inmates on the roadside. A near collision with a motorbike led to an altercation.
The officer allegedly insulted Agyekum, who responded in kind. What followed was a violent attack, leaving Agyekum injured and bewildered.
Despite reporting the incident to the police, the family remains in the dark about any arrests or progress. Four prison officers have reportedly since visited the victim and his family, expressing apologies and a desire to settle the case. But for Agyekum’s family, justice remains their unwavering demand.
Former Deputy General Secretary of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Koku Anyidoho, has weighed in on a viral photo of New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
The photo shows Bawumia enjoying coconut water during a campaign stop.
Anyidoho, who has praised Bawumia’s campaign style, shared the picture on his X page. He compared the Vice President’s coconut moment to then-candidate Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo‘s viral Kalyppo picture from the 2016 presidential campaign.
“It was once Kalyppo; now it is coconut water. A man must quench his campaign thirst one way or the other. It’s not easy,” Anyidoho remarked.
In 2016, Akufo-Addo’s popularity surged after a picture of him sipping a box of Kalyppo fruit juice went viral. The picture sparked a trend where NPP members and supporters created their own versions of the image with Kalyppo.
Police are allegedly searching for Reynold Ofori Koranteng, a 35-year-old cold store manager, accused of stealing GHC 98,000 from his employer.
The incident took place at a cold store in Mpraeso, Kwahu, in Ghana’s Eastern Region.
According to a social media post by X user @Dek360Ghana, Koranteng allegedly took the weekend’s sales meant for bank deposit on Monday morning.
The attached police statement from Kwafo Andrews Obiri, the store’s manager, detailed how the theft was discovered.
The statement read, “Kwafo Andrews Obiri of HNo unknown Mpraeso on phone No. 0243886575, the Manager, came to the charge office and reported that today 03/06/2024 at about 5:40 am, he went to the said company and detected that an amount of GHC 97,826.00 was missing from his office. He highly suspects one Ofori Koranteng Reynolds, one of his workers, and as such needed police action. Information received indicates that the said suspect is planning to travel overseas.”
The police are investigating the case and are urging anyone with information about Koranteng’s whereabouts to come forward.
A recent post by @tech_twi on social media has ignited a debate over a supposed new tax applied to Mobile Money (MoMo) transactions in Ghana.
The user shared a receipt showing a GHC 10,000 transfer to one Fidaus Haruna, which incurred a GHC 100 tax, suggesting the introduction of a new levy on MoMo transactions.
“Another tax on MoMo has been quietly introduced. As a MoMo Pay Merchant, I used to send money to MoMo users without any charges. However, there is now a tax on these transactions. This is unacceptable. How can I be expected to pay 100 Ghanaian cedis as a tax on a refund to my customer?” he wrote.
The post, which has attracted significant attention with 77 comments, 367 retweets, 728 likes, and 102.8k views, has resonated with numerous MoMo users who have experienced similar charges.
Users reported a range of taxes on their transactions, some as high as GHC 26,000, sparking widespread concern and discussion online.
In response to the outcry, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) clarified the situation, citing the Electronic Transfer Levy Act, 2022 (Act 1075).
According to the GRA, transfers from merchant accounts are subject to the E-Levy, as they have always been taxable under the act.
The exemption applies to transfers to merchant accounts when the merchant is a registered business with the GRA
The Electronic Transfer Levy, initially set at 1.5% on electronic transfers, was introduced as part of the government’s efforts to enhance revenue mobilisation by broadening the tax base.
However, the levy has been a subject of contention, with calls for its review and adjustment to ensure fairness and to stimulate compliance.
The MoMo tax has had a significant impact on both merchants and customers, with some merchants threatening to strike over the levy on merchant SIM cards.
Research suggests that the tax could be affecting the financial sustainability of businesses and the overall MoMo ecosystem.
As the discussion continues, stakeholders are seeking a balance between the government’s need for revenue and the financial well-being of the citizens.
The situation underscores the importance of clear communication and consultation in tax policy implementation to avoid confusion and ensure equitable taxation.
The family of the young child tragically killed in a vehicular accident involving the actor Kwadwo Nkansah, known as LilWin, has issued a stern message, asserting their determination to seek justice and not be underestimated due to their financial status.
In a heartfelt interview on Angel FM, a relative of the victim declared, “He thinks he is dealing with a bunch of poor people… we have taken this matter very seriously. Some utterances by his PRO (Public Relations Officer) led a presenter to caution me against being paid off, and I told him that everyone who knows our family in Kumasi knows that we are not destitute or hungry people.
“If you look at the Nyarko Towers where we live, that is just a small place we have rented in town, we travel home on weekends,” the uncle of the young boy stated.
“So if they think they are dealing with some weak people that they can bully, they should be careful,” he warned.
The Asokore Mampong District Court in Kumasi set LilWin‘s bail at GH¢50,000 with two sureties on Monday, June 3, 2024. The actor had been apprehended by the Motor Traffic and Transport Department of the Manhyia Divisional Command following his release from medical care.
The arrest stemmed from a grave incident where LilWin’s vehicle collided with another, resulting in the death of the three-year-old.
The family has been outspoken in their quest for justice. The police have clarified that the delay in arresting LilWin was due to his health condition.
Facing charges of dangerous driving and causing harm through negligence, LilWin is under investigation.
His attorney, Margaret Adjei-Twum, advocated for his bail, highlighting his injuries, including internal bleeding, and emphasized the necessity of bail for his ongoing medical treatment, as per citinewsroom.com.
Adjei-Twum reassured the court of LilWin’s high profile in Ghana and his dedication to the legal process, negating any flight risk.
Concerns were raised by the defense about the haste of the police in bringing LilWin to court before his full recovery.
The case has been postponed until June 27, 2024.
Previously, LilWin, allegedly speeding, crashed into a vehicle carrying young Nana Yaw and his father, Jacob Kofi Ampomah.
Both were rushed to a hospital and later transferred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, where the child sadly passed away.
In a chilling development, Nigerian authorities have uncovered a decaying corpse in a remote location close to the dwelling of Andrew Amaechi Ochekwo.
This businessman is under suspicion for the kidnapping of a Ghanaian woman and her Nigerian companion.
Nigerian activist Harrison Gwamnishu’s Instagram post revealed the grisly scene, displaying the body shrouded in a blanket, abandoned in the underbrush near Ochekwo’s home.
Investigations led to a startling similarity between the fabric enveloping the body and curtains from Ochekwo’s residence at 48 Stallion Street, Ogbor-Hill, Aba, Abia State.
Harrison quoted witnesses saying, “The body has been here for over a month, headless, with several parts missing. The curtain found here matches the one from his house.”
Afiba Abigail Tandoh, the Ghanaian woman, vanished last April in Abia State, along with Celine Chidinma Ndidum. Their last known plan was to attend a wedding in Rivers State, which was abruptly called off.
Recent updates from the Daily Guide Newspaper indicate the arrest of Andrew Amechi Otchipo, a 52-year-old British Nigerian, in relation to the women’s disappearance.
“Otchipo, a figure notorious and sought after by law enforcement, was detained by Interpol in Nigeria to assist with the investigation concerning the two women’s fate.
“Hotel CCTV footage where they all met provided pivotal evidence tying the suspect to the missing pair. Items like the women’s handbags and ATM cards were discovered at his place,” the newspaper reported.
In a tragic turn, Andrew Ameachi reportedly met his end during the inquiry.
He was allegedly killed en route to Abuja for the investigation, shot by police following an escape attempt, as reported by Harrison, who has been closely monitoring the case.
The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has issued a new directive barring political party agents from observing the transfer of votes at district offices.
This directive, effective from June 3, 2024, was communicated to regional and district directors in response to violent clashes reported during previous vote transfer exercises.
In the memo, the EC stated, “The Commission’s attention has been drawn to the violent clashes occurring at some district offices as a result of the transfer of votes exercise. Regional directors are to inform district officers not to allow agents of political parties to observe the transfer of votes exercise with effect from tomorrow, Monday, the 3rd of June 2024. Pursuant to Regulation 22(8) of CI 127, Returning Officers are required to give copies of the transferred voters list to the political parties and candidates upon request.”
The EC’s decision aims to prevent further disturbances and ensure a smooth transfer process. However, the Commission emphasized its commitment to transparency by ensuring that political parties and candidates can still request copies of the transferred voter lists.
The directive has sparked significant backlash from political figures. Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Adaklu Constituency, Kwame Governs Agbodza, criticised the decision on social media, calling it “criminally minded.” He argued that agents must be allowed to fully observe the process to ensure fairness and accountability.
In his post on X, Agbodza wrote, “This is criminally minded. AGENTS MUST OBSERVE FULLY.”
The new directive and subsequent reactions highlight the ongoing tensions and challenges in maintaining electoral integrity and security in Ghana. The EC’s measures are intended to balance the need for order and security at district offices while upholding the transparency of the electoral process.
For further context, this directive follows the EC’s broader efforts to manage the electoral process, including voter registration and the upcoming 2024 general elections. The EC has also faced scrutiny for its handling of voter registration exercises and the provision of voting facilities.
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) is “building a new multimillion-dollar residence” at Ridge, Accra, according to recent claims by the Minority in Parliament.
This development comes amidst ongoing construction of the BoG’s new headquarters, which has been the subject of significant public scrutiny.
The Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Adaklu Constituency, Kwame Governs Agbodza, who took to X to express his concerns about the expenditure, highlighted that, despite the BoG’s financial struggles, it is proceeding with costly projects.
“MESS AT BANK OF GHANA CONTINUES. The Bank of Aghana is also building a NEW MULTIMILLION DOLLAR RESIDENCE FOR THE GOVERNOR at Ridge in Accra,” Agbodza posted, referencing statements by the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.
Dr. Ato Forson who has earlier elaborated on the situation on his X page, stated that despite the BoG reported colossal losses, with the 2022 financial year recording a loss of over 600,000% of its stated capital of GHS 10 million, and another substantial loss in 2023, the bank is still able to fund such expensive projects.
He criticized the BoG’s decision to continue with massive construction projects, including a new headquarters, reportedly costing around USD 250 million.
The BoG last year, defended its decision to build a new headquarters, stating that the facility is essential for security reasons, including earthquake resilience, as the current building does not meet modern standards.
The proposed new residence for the Governor has raised eyebrows, with accusations that the project demonstrates poor prioritization of resources amid financial losses.
The BoG has not publicly commented on the residence’s cost or the rationale behind the project
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the BoG will respond to these criticisms and whether the ongoing projects will continue as planned.
TheBank of Ghana (BoG)is “building a new multimillion-dollar residence” at Ridge, Accra, according to recent claims by the Minority in Parliament.
This development comes amidst ongoing construction of the BoG’s new headquarters, which has been the subject of significant public scrutiny.
The Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Adaklu Constituency, Kwame Governs Agbodza, who took to X to express his concerns about the expenditure, highlighted that, despite the BoG’s financial struggles, it is proceeding with costly projects.
“MESS AT BANK OF GHANA CONTINUES. The Bank of Aghana is also building a NEW MULTIMILLION DOLLAR RESIDENCE FOR THE GOVERNOR at Ridge in Accra,” Agbodza posted, referencing statements by the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.
Dr. Ato Forson who has earlier elaborated on the situation on his X page, stated that despite the BoG reported colossal losses, with the 2022 financial year recording a loss of over 600,000% of its stated capital of GHS 10 million, and another substantial loss in 2023, the bank is still able to fund such expensive projects.
He criticized the BoG’s decision to continue with massive construction projects, including a new headquarters, reportedly costing around USD 250 million.
The BoG last year, defended its decision to build a new headquarters, stating that the facility is essential for security reasons, including earthquake resilience, as the current building does not meet modern standards.
The proposed new residence for the Governor has raised eyebrows, with accusations that the project demonstrates poor prioritization of resources amid financial losses.
The BoG has not publicly commented on the residence’s cost or the rationale behind the project
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the BoG will respond to these criticisms and whether the ongoing projects will continue as planned.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has leveled serious accusations against Kwaw Worsemao Blay, son of former New Patriotic Party [NPP] National Chairman Freddie Worsemao Blay.
According to Ablakwa, Kwaw Worsemao Blay has allegedly hijacked the beachfront property of Labadi Beach Hotel and defrauded his business partner, Loic Devos Junior.
Ablakwa’s claims, which he shared in a recent post, are based on explosive court documents that he has obtained and analyzed. The Independent Ghana is yet to independently verify these allegations.
Ablakwa reveals that Devos Junior initiated legal action against Kwaw Worsemao Blay on February 17, 2023, at the Accra High Court (Commercial Division).
In his suit (Suit Number: CM/MISC/0302/2023), Devos alleges that Blay cheated him out of their joint business operations and fraudulently denied him financial benefits.
The court documents state that Devos and Blay formed Gold Coast Expo Limited in 2019 and organized Polo Beach Club events at Labadi Beach Hotel’s beachfront.
They initially had a joint venture agreement with the hotel, but Blay allegedly breached the terms unilaterally, excluding the hotel and taking over the beach front.
Ablakwa’s post details how Blay constructed a bypass entry to the beach front, seized control of gate proceeds, and blocked Devos from accessing company accounts. He also claims Blay used another company, Press Xpress Limited, to usurp business transactions and sponsorship deals.
Internal investigations by Labadi Beach Hotel’s board implicated the hotel’s former Managing Director, Rene Vincent-Ernst, in the encroachment scheme. Vincent-Ernst was dismissed in November 2022 after allegedly conspiring with Blay to breach the joint venture agreement.
The court filings reveal Devos’s request for interlocutory injunctions to prevent Blay from launching independent Polo Beach Club events and to restrain him from spending or disposing of the company’s funds. He also seeks to stop Blay from claiming to be the Managing Director of Gold Coast Expo Limited.
Ablakwa criticizes the board and management of both Labadi Beach Hotel and SSNIT for allowing this encroachment and calls for President Akufo-Addo to address the issue. He emphasizes the need for accountability and protection of state assets from politically exposed persons.
Ablakwa attached court documents to his post to support his claims.
On this day, nine years ago, Ghana experienced one of the most harrowing disasters in its history. TheJune 3rd disaster, a catastrophic event that combined a raging fire with devastating floods, claimed the lives of over 150 people and left a scar on the nation’s collective memory.
The tragedy unfolded at a fuel station in Accra, where many had sought refuge from the relentless downpour that led to severe flooding.
In a cruel twist of fate, the station became the epicenter of an explosion and subsequent inferno that spread rapidly, consuming everything in its path.
The disaster not only took lives but also exposed the dire need for improved urban planning and infrastructure to prevent such calamities. It served as a wake-up call for the entire country, prompting calls for action to enhance safety regulations and enforce strict building codes.
As we mark the ninth anniversary of this dark day, it is a time for reflection, remembrance, and a renewed commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Ghanaians.
The lessons learned from the June 3rd disaster continue to resonate, reminding us of the importance of preparedness and the value of human life.
Today, we honor the memory of those who perished, and extend our sympathies to the families still grieving. May the lessons of June 3rd guide us towards a safer and more secure future.
THE WORST DISASTER TO HAVE EVER HIT GHANA: Exactly nine years ago today, heavy rainfall and an explosion at a fuel station at the Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Accra led to a devastating fire and flood catastrophe.
New Jersey, USA — A founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP)New Jersey Chapter in the USA, Nana Atta Boamah, has voiced his disappointment in President Nana Akufo-Addo’s leadership.
Nana Atta Boamah, who has resided in the United States for nearly 45 years, shared his concerns during the 30th anniversary celebration of the NPP New Jersey Chapter.
Despite his long stay abroad, Boamah frequently visits Ghana and remains well-informed about the current state of affairs in the country.
In a video shared by X user @obiMpenaAustine, Boamah expressed his dissatisfaction with the current leadership of the party.
“The party right now, we need good leadership. Nana Addo has failed the NPP. Why? So many things. He came in and swore to us that he would use discipline and accountability. He failed! Look right now, what is going on in Ghana,” he said.
Boamah criticized the perceived dominance of the Akyem people within the party, questioning the number of Akyem individuals registered to vote in Ghana.
He also issued a stern warning to the Vice President and party officials, including Yaw Osafo-Maafo, urging them to reassess their positions.
“The party doesn’t belong to the Akyem people. How many Akyem people in Ghana have registered to vote? This is a warning to the Vice President and the party officials, Osafo-Maafo, and the rest of them; they all need to sit back,” Boamah stated.
Nana Atta Boamah’s remarks reflect a broader discontent within some sections of the NPP and highlight ongoing concerns about the party’s direction under President Akufo-Addo’s leadership.
Explosive court documents obtained by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa reveal an alleged scheme by prominent figures associated with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to seize control of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust’s (SSNIT) highly profitable Labadi Beach Hotel.
The documents suggest a grand plan to capture state assets, with the beachfront property at the center of the controversy.
According to Ablakwa, the revelations go beyond the involvement of Bryan Acheampong, a known NPP associate. The documents implicate Kwaw Worsemao Blay, son of former NPP National Chairman Freddy Worsemao Blay, who now claims ownership of the beachfront traditionally managed by Labadi Beach Hotel.
Labadi Beach Hotel has thus become the only beachfront hotel in the world without exclusive control over its entire beachfront. Ablakwa highlights the helplessness of the hotel’s board and management, who appear unable to combat the encroachment by politically powerful individuals.
Explosive court documents I have obtained and currently analysing reveal that top politically exposed persons associated with the ruling NPP have long had a grand state capture scheme to completely take over SSNIT’s hotels, particularly, the super profitable Labadi Beach Hotel.… pic.twitter.com/VO05BfYJwN
— Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa (@S_OkudzetoAblak) June 1, 2024
The situation came to light through a lawsuit filed at the Accra High Court (Commercial Division) by Mr. Loic Devos Junior, a business partner of Kwaw Worsemao Blay. Devos alleges that Blay cheated him out of their joint business, Gold Coast Expo Limited, which they established to organize the Polo Beach Club events at Labadi Beach.
Court documents (Suit Number: CM/MISC/0302/2023) detail Devos’s accusations of breach of joint venture agreement, misappropriation of funds, and exclusion of Labadi Beach Hotel from revenue streams. Devos claims Blay unilaterally took over the beachfront, bypassed agreed entry points, and funneled profits through his own company, Press Xpress Limited.
Internal protests from Labadi Beach Hotel’s board led to an inquiry and the eventual dismissal of the hotel’s former Managing Director, Rene Vincent-Ernst, who was accused of conspiring with Blay. Vincent-Ernst’s attempt to resign amid the investigation was rejected, and he has since filed a lawsuit challenging his dismissal and seeking outstanding entitlements.
Devos’s legal action seeks to restrain Blay from conducting Polo Beach Club events and misappropriating company assets. The court battle continues, with Devos demanding accountability and the cessation of Blay’s self-appointed management of Gold Coast Expo Limited.
Despite efforts by the hotel’s board to reclaim control, Blay has constructed permanent structures on the encroached beachfront and retains full possession, refusing to share revenues with Labadi Beach Hotel. Guests have complained about the obstruction of views and disturbances caused by Blay’s activities, yet the management remains powerless.
Ablakwa condemns the SSNIT and Labadi Beach Hotel boards for their inaction, accusing them of enabling the NPP’s alleged state capture agenda. He calls for President Akufo-Addo to intervene and halt the NPP’s aggressive acquisitions.
The North Tongu MP is also advancing a Private Member’s Bill to ban the sale of state assets to politicians and politically exposed persons, signaling his commitment to protecting public resources.
on September 22, 2022 was rejected by the Labadi board because of the then active investigations into the conspiracy with Mr. Blay to capture the beachfront.
Mr. Rene Vincent-Ernst subsequently proceeded to an Accra Human Rights Court on November 18, 2022 challenging his… pic.twitter.com/jDgtWRkMfT
— Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa (@S_OkudzetoAblak) June 1, 2024
Ghana’s ongoing rainy season has once again spotlighted the country’s infrastructure issues.
A viral video reportedly captured at Nsawam Government Hospital shows nurses urgently moving patients to avoid water pouring in through a severely leaking roof during a rainstorm.
The footage reveals the roof of the hospital ward unable to withstand the heavy rain, leading to water flooding the area. Nurses are seen pushing a bed with a patient to a safer location as water gushes in.
The exact timing of the video remains unclear, but the recent rains have brought multiple infrastructure problems to light. Flooding incidents across Ghana have caused deaths and significant property damage since the rainy season began.
Patients on sick beds had to be repositioned in one of the wards at the Nsawam government hospital after a huge leakage from the weak roof following today's heavy rainfall. pic.twitter.com/R66ZBsdKQd
The Ghana Police Service arrested three individuals, including Phyllis Naa Koryoo Okunnor, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Parliamentary Candidate for Awutu Senya East, on Sunday, June 2, 2024.
Okunnor, along with Mustapha Mohammed and Abdul Aziz Musah, was apprehended in a Honda CRV with registration number GX-2044-19.
The arrest occurred near the Electoral Commission’s office at Ofaakor, where authorities found a pump-action gun and four rounds of ammunition in the vehicle. The trio is currently assisting the police with their investigations.
This arrest followed a violent incident at the Electoral Commission’s office in Kasoa, which injured four people. The conflict, involving NDC and New Patriotic Party (NPP) members, began around 5 am over voter transfer procedures.
Ato Koomson, son of the incumbent MP Mavis Hawa Koomson, was critically injured and is now at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra. Additionally, three NDC members were injured and are receiving treatment at the Kasoa Polyclinic.
In a shocking turn of events, a two-year-old toddler severely injured in a dog attack is now showing signs of recovery. The child, who lost his buttocks and testicles, was in critical condition at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
After a successful plastic surgery to cover the severe wounds, the toddler is now on the mend, giving his family a glimmer of hope.
The vicious attack left the boy with life-threatening injuries. After weeks of intensive care, the toddler underwent his first plastic surgery to address the gaping wound on his anus. The surgery’s success has been a beacon of hope for the family.
Eugene Addo, the boy’s father, expressed his gratitude: “I am grateful to everyone who came to my son’s aid.” The family’s struggle has inspired widespread support, with financial and moral assistance pouring in to help with medical expenses.
The story has also caught the attention of the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dakoa Newman. She visited the hospital, promising to seek legal action to ensure justice. The Social Welfare Department is providing temporary accommodation for the family during the child’s recovery.
Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dakoa Newman.
Various organizations and individuals have shown support. Wendy Boatemaa Ofori, a nurse and co-founder of the Redeeming Hands Foundation, has been instrumental in raising funds for the child’s medical needs, including providing a wound vac machine essential for his recovery.
Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dakoa Newman.
With continued medical care and community support, the family remains hopeful that their brave toddler will make a full recovery.
The National Democratic Congress(NDC) in the Awutu Senya East Constituency of the Central Region is demanding a thorough, transparent, and unbiased investigation into the violent incident that occurred at the Electoral Commission’s office in Kasoa on Sunday morning.
This call follows the arrest of the NDC’s constituency organiser, Daniel Techie Mensah, and its Parliamentary Candidate after a confrontation led to the stabbing of Ato Koomson, son of the NPP MP for Awutu Senya East and Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mavis Hawa Koomson.
Ato Koomson is currently receiving treatment at the 37 Military Hospital for a stab wound to his chest.
In a statement issued by the Constituency Communication Officer, Stephen Delali Sowoekpor, the NDC expressed concern over what they describe as selective arrests, raising questions about the police’s impartiality in handling the incident. The NDC highlighted a “historical context of attacks on NDC supporters allegedly orchestrated by Hawa Koomson.”
Full Statement from the NDC:
The NDC Communication Bureau of the Awutu Senya East Constituency expresses its profound concern and condemnation over the violent incident that occurred in the early hours of this morning.
This unfortunate event stands as yet another instance of aggression and lawlessness perpetuated by elements associated with the NPP, under the apparent sponsorship and direction of Hawa Koomson.
On the previous day, an agreement was reached between the police and the two main political parties in the Awutu Senya East Constituency to prevent the busing in of people to queue for vote transfers.
Despite this agreement, at approximately 2:00 AM today, the NPP blatantly violated this accord by busing in about 50 thugs to the centre. This unlawful act led to an immediate confrontation with both the police and members of the NDC present at the scene.
The situation escalated further when Ato Koomson, son of Hawa Koomson, arrived with additional individuals who violently attacked the NDC members.
The NDC members, outnumbered and outmatched, faced severe beatings. As a result, two of our members fainted, and one, identified as Asmah, suffered significant injuries, bleeding profusely. This tragic turn of events underscores the need for immediate intervention and justice.
We are closely monitoring the police’s actions regarding this incident, especially considering the historical context of attacks on NDC supporters allegedly orchestrated by Hawa Koomson.
We have noted with concern the police’s decision to take Daniel Techie Mensah, the NDC Constituency Organiser, to the Police Headquarters in Accra. This action appears selective and raises questions about the impartiality of the police’s response.
In light of these events, we call for the following:
An Immediate and Impartial Investigation: The police must conduct a thorough, transparent, and unbiased investigation into the incident, ensuring that all perpetrators are held accountable, regardless of political affiliation.
Protection of All Citizens: The police must ensure the safety and protection of all citizens, particularly members of the NDC, who have been repeatedly targeted and victimized.
Adherence to Agreements: We urge all parties, including law enforcement, to respect and adhere to agreements made to maintain peace and order during electoral processes.
We stand firm in our commitment to justice and the protection of our members. The NDC will continue to advocate for the rights and safety of all individuals in the Awutu Senya East Constituency.
Signed,
Comrade Stephen Delali Sowoekpor Constituency Communication Officer NDC Communication Bureau, Awutu Senya East Constituency
Police Actions and Political Tensions
The police have arrested the main suspect and are conducting investigations into the matter. This incident has intensified political tensions in the area, with both parties calling for peace and order during the voter registration process. The authorities are being urged to ensure that justice is served impartially and that such incidents do not recur.
Ato Koomson, son of the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East and Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mavis Hawa Koomson, has reportedly been stabbed in a violent altercation near the Electoral Commission’s office in Kasoa.
According to reports, Ato Koomson was critically injured and rushed to the 37 Military Hospital for treatment. Another individual was also injured during the incident.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the clash began early in the morning when supporters of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) disagreed over the positioning of residents in the queue for the ongoing voter ID card transfer and replacement exercise.
The disagreement allegedly started around 4:00 am due to a dispute over reserved spots in the queue.
Mr. Koomson arrived at the registration centre approximately 45 minutes after the altercation began. He reportedly approached an NDC organizer to help resolve the issue, but tensions escalated when another NDC supporter started verbally abusing him.
King Adawu, an NPP member who was also injured in the incident, recounted that the altercation turned violent when an NDC member allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed Ato Koomson in the chest.
Adawu, who attempted to intervene, sustained a minor cut to his hand.
Both Koomson and Adawu were quickly taken to the hospital. Adawu was treated and discharged, while Koomson remains admitted in critical condition.
Police have since arrested the main suspect, and investigations into the incident are ongoing.
This violent incident has raised concerns about political tensions and violence surrounding the voter registration process in the area.
Ato Koomson, son of the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East and Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mavis Hawa Koomson, has reportedly been stabbed in a violent altercation near the Electoral Commission’s office in Kasoa.
According to reports, Ato Koomson was critically injured and rushed to the 37 Military Hospital for treatment. Another individual was also injured during the incident.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the clash began early in the morning when supporters of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP)and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) disagreed over the positioning of residents in the queue for the ongoing voter ID card transfer and replacement exercise.
The disagreement allegedly started around 4:00 am due to a dispute over reserved spots in the queue.
Mr. Koomson arrived at the registration centre approximately 45 minutes after the altercation began. He reportedly approached an NDC organizer to help resolve the issue, but tensions escalated when another NDC supporter started verbally abusing him.
King Adawu, an NPP member who was also injured in the incident, recounted that the altercation turned violent when an NDC member allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed Ato Koomson in the chest.
Adawu, who attempted to intervene, sustained a minor cut to his hand.
Both Koomson and Adawu were quickly taken to the hospital. Adawu was treated and discharged, while Koomson remains admitted in critical condition.
Police have since arrested the main suspect, and investigations into the incident are ongoing.
This violent incident has raised concerns about political tensions and violence surrounding the voter registration process in the area.
The Attorney-General (A-G) has responded firmly to Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s recent application to the High Court, asserting that the prosecution holds strong evidence against him.
Dr. Forson, the Minority Leader in Parliament, faces charges of wilfully causing financial loss to the state in the ambulance procurement case.
Dr. Forson had filed an application seeking a probe into the A-G’s conduct, a mistrial, an injunction, and/or a stay of proceedings.
This move followed allegations from Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the case, claiming that the A-G attempted to recruit him to aid in prosecuting Dr. Forson.
In the affidavit opposing this application, the A-G’s office dismissed these claims as unfounded and emphasized the strength of the evidence already presented in court.
“The Prosecution has led cogent evidence after painstaking investigations conducted in this case and called credible witnesses who were cross-examined extensively by counsel for the applicant and the other accused persons leading to a prima facie case being held by this Honourable Court to have been duly made against all the accused persons,” the affidavit stated.
The A-G’s affidavit argued that Dr. Forson’s application is an attempt to derail the ongoing legal process.
It stated, “The instant application is a smokescreen and a veiled attempt by the applicant to abort his legitimate prosecution for actions committed as a public officer which led to the State losing colossal amounts of funds.”
Addressing the claims of misconduct, the A-G’s affidavit insisted that the prosecution has acted within the bounds of the law and upheld the principles of justice.
“The Attorney-General has always served the Republic of Ghana diligently and without fear or favor to all manner of persons, including the applicant herein,” the affidavit noted.
The office of the Attorney-General has responded vigorously to Dr. Ato Forson’s recent court application, which seeks to investigate the Attorney-General’s conduct in the ongoing ambulance procurement trial.
Dr. Forson, the Minority Leader in Parliament and the first accused in the case, filed for a probe following allegations by the third accused, Richard Jakpa, that the Attorney-General had attempted to recruit him to aid in Forson’s prosecution.
In addition to requesting an inquiry into the Attorney-General’s conduct, Dr. Forson is seeking an order of mistrial, an injunction, and/or a stay of proceedings in the criminal case.
He argues that the Attorney-General’s actions constitute an abuse of court processes and violate constitutional obligations.
However, the Attorney-General’s office has firmly rejected these claims. In a comprehensive affidavit, the Principal State Attorney outlines some reasons why the charges against Jakpa and Forson should not be dismissed, describing the applications as “unfounded, unmeritorious, and unknown to the law.”
Key Points from the Affidavit:
Desperate Tactic to Avoid Prosecution
The Attorney-General argues that Forson’s and Jakpa’s applications are desperate attempts to evade justice. The affidavit states: “Clearly, the accused persons are bent on using any means necessary, fair or foul, to abort their legitimate prosecution for crimes committed against the Republic and must not be aided in that illegitimate endeavor through a grant of the instant application.”
Robust Evidence and Transparency
The affidavit emphasizes that the prosecution’s case is built on solid evidence from thorough investigations. The Attorney-General’s office has shared all relevant documents with the defense to ensure transparency and fairness. The affidavit notes: “In fairness to the accused persons, the Attorney-General duly filed all the evidence he intended to rely on at the trial and furnished all parties to this action with copies of all documents including even the ones he did not rely on.”
Denial of Allegations
The Attorney-General denies any improper conduct or attempts to manipulate Jakpa’s testimony. The affidavit rejects the claim that the Attorney-General tried to coach Jakpa on what to say in court, describing these allegations as “spurious and mischievous.”
Manipulation of Facts
The affidavit accuses Forson and Jakpa of manipulating facts to undermine the integrity of the court and discredit the prosecution. It states: “The depositions in the affidavit in support of the instant application are laden with spurious allegations which are carefully and mischievously calculated at creating unnecessary anxiety about the capacity of the court to dispense justice in this case.”
Background of the Case
Dr. Ato Forson and Richard Jakpa are accused of causing financial loss to the state through the procurement of faulty ambulances. Jakpa has claimed that in private conversations, the Attorney-General admitted there was no case against him, a claim purportedly supported by a recording released by the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
This recording allegedly captures the Attorney-General coaching Jakpa on what to say in court to incriminate Dr. Forson.
Despite these allegations, the Attorney-General’s office maintains that the prosecution is legitimate and based on robust evidence.
The Attorney-General (A-G) has issued a strong rebuttal toDr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s recent application to the High Court, emphasizing that no one in Ghana is immune from prosecution.
Dr. Forson, the Minority Leader in Parliament, is currently facing charges of wilfully causing financial loss to the state in the ambulance procurement case.
Dr. Forson had applied for an investigation into the A-G’s conduct, alongside requests for a mistrial, an injunction, and/or a stay of proceedings.
This application followed allegations by Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the case, claiming the A-G had attempted to recruit him to support the prosecution against Dr. Forson.
In the affidavit opposing these requests, the A-G firmly rejected the claims, stating that they lack merit and legal grounding.
The affidavit asserts, “No one has immunity from prosecution under the laws of Ghana,” highlighting the A-G’s commitment to upholding the rule of law without favoritism.
The A-G’s office described Dr. Forson’s application as a strategic move to avoid accountability.
“The instant application is a smokescreen and a veiled attempt by the applicant to abort his legitimate prosecution for actions committed as a public officer which led to the State losing colossal amounts of funds,” the affidavit noted.
The affidavit also stressed that the prosecution has adhered to legal procedures and provided substantial evidence. “The Prosecution has led cogent evidence after painstaking investigations conducted in this case and called credible witnesses who were cross-examined extensively by counsel for the applicant and the other accused persons leading to a prima facie case being held by this Honourable Court to have been duly made against all the accused persons.”
Dr. Ato Forson and Richard Jakpa are accused of causing financial loss to the state through the procurement of defective ambulances worth €2.4 million.
The Attorney-General has strongly opposed Dr.Cassiel Ato Forson‘s recent application to the High Court, calling it a “smokescreen” designed to avoid prosecution.
The Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Forson, is facing charges of wilfully causing financial loss to the state in a controversial ambulance procurement case.
Dr. Forson, who is the first accused in the case, has however accused the Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, of attempting to manipulate the trial by allegedly trying to recruit the third accused, Richard Jakpa, to aid in his prosecution.
Dr. Forson filed an application for an inquiry into the A-G’s conduct following allegations from Richard Jakpa claiming that the A-G tried to recruit him to help prosecute Dr. Forson
In his application, Dr. Forson seeks an order to investigate the Attorney-General’s conduct, an order of mistrial, and an injunction or stay of proceedings in the criminal case. He argues that the Attorney-General’s actions constitute an abuse of court processes and violate constitutional obligations.
In a detailed affidavit, the A-G’s office firmly dismissed the application as baseless and an attempt to obstruct justice. The affidavit states, “The instant application is a smokescreen and a veiled attempt by the applicant to abort his legitimate prosecution for actions committed as a public officer which led to the State losing colossal amounts of funds. Same is incompetent as no one has immunity from prosecution under the laws of Ghana.”
The A-G’s affidavit argues that no valid legal grounds support Dr. Forson’s requests and maintains that the prosecution has conducted its duties fairly and justly. “The Attorney-General has always served the Republic of Ghana diligently and without fear or favor to all manner of persons, including the applicant herein,” the affidavit asserts.
Addressing specific allegations, the affidavit clarifies that the dismissal of Dr. Sylvester Anemana from the case was due to severe illness, not any exculpatory evidence favoring Dr. Forson. It also highlights that the prosecution has provided strong evidence, leading to a prima facie case against all accused.
“The Respondent states that a suspicion about the prosecution or motives for prosecution is not evidence upon which the court makes decisions and therefore the instant application is completely frivolous,” the A-G’s affidavit declares.
This rebuttal underscores the A-G’s stance that the trial should proceed without interruption, emphasizing the principle of equality before the law and rejecting any attempts to evade justice through unfounded allegations.
Background
Dr. Ato Forson and Richard Jakpa are accused of causing financial loss to the state through the procurement of defective ambulances worth €2.4 million.
The case has sparked significant public interest, with the recent developments adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing legal battle.
The Attorney General’s Office has filed a response to oppose Richard Jakpa’s request to drop the charges against him or pause the trial in the ongoing ambulance case.
An affidavit, filed in response to Jakpa’s legal move, outlines a series of rebuttals to the claims made by the accused.
According to the affidavit, the Attorney General’s office is firmly opposed to the application, which it describes as “unfounded, unmeritorious and unknown to the law.”
The document asserts that the charges against Jakpa are justified and that the proceedings have been conducted in accordance with Ghanaian legal standards.
The affidavit goes on to state that there are no proper grounds to warrant the dismissal of the case, emphasizing that the application is a “smokescreen” and a “veiled attempt” by Jakpa to escape prosecution for his alleged role in causing financial loss to the state.
It further argues that the Attorney General has a constitutional responsibility to prosecute all crimes within the Republic and that this duty cannot be prohibited or hindered by any person, as all are equal before the law.
In a detailed point-by-point refutation, the affidavit denies each allegation made by Jakpa in his application. It labels the allegations as “spurious” and “mischievously calculated” to cast doubt on the court’s ability to dispense justice.
The document also addresses specific paragraphs from Jakpa’s affidavit, labeling them as epitomizing the falsehoods present in his application.
The AG’s office also highlighted that the decision to discharge another accused, Dr. Sylvester Anemana, from the case was due to his severe illness, not because of any “exculpatory evidence” in favor of Jakpa.
It also counters Jakpa’s suggestion that the entry of nolle prosequi against Dr. Anemana was based on evidence that favored him, stating that Dr. Anemana’s testimony before being discharged rather vindicated the decision to charge all accused, including Jakpa himself.
The Attorney General’s office denies any collusion with witnesses or manipulation of evidence, maintaining that the prosecution has led with credible evidence and witnesses, resulting in a prima facie case being established against all accused persons. The affidavit also refutes the notion that the Attorney General has not upheld the rights of all parties, asserting that his actions have been in the interest of justice and without bias.
The affidavit concludes by stating that the application is frivolous, vexatious, and a complete waste of the court’s time, urging for the case to be brought to a firm conclusion based on the credible evidence presented.
As the legal battle intensifies, the public and media continue to closely monitor the developments in this case, which has significant implications for the rule of law and accountability in Ghana.
Vice President of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons has voiced concerns over the recent 5G internet service procurement in Ghana.
He highlighted a potential conflict of interest involving Next Gen Infraco, the company awarded the contract, and Integrated Legal Consultants, a law firm implicated in previous contentious tenders.
Simons stated, “The company awarded this juicy contract – Next Gen Infraco – is fronted by Integrated Legal Consultants, the same law firm that fronted for bidders in the murky Kelni GVG tender.”
This comment comes amid investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni’s inquiries into the government’s decision to grant Next Gen Infraco Ltd. the contract for Ghana’s 5G infrastructure project.
Awuni’s skepticism stems from the lack of competitive bidding and the timing of the company’s formation, which occurred just a week before receiving presidential approval.
Awuni questioned, “The company that has been handed the deal was formed less than a week before the president’s approval. The 5G technology, according to industry experts, can be worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Why is it being handed to one company without an auction? Why were different companies not allowed to bid for the contract?”
In contrast, Communications and Digitalisation Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful defended the transaction, stating that Next Gen Infraco Ltd. was specifically created to manage the 5G rollout due to a lack of existing companies capable of the task.
Owusu-Ekuful clarified, “This is a special purpose vehicle, and once the government took the decision that we will use a neutral infrastructure company to deliver this service, there is no existing neutral infrastructure company that can deliver it at the moment.”
The situation raises questions about transparency and fairness in the procurement process and the relationship between Next Gen Infraco and entities involved in prior controversial contracts.
A video of a man from Kumasi lamenting about the high cost of living in Accra has gone viral, adding to widespread discussion about the rising prices in Ghana’s capital city.
The video, shared by X user @eddie_wrt, captures the man’s frustration after encountering what he describes as exorbitant prices for food.
“I just got to Accra from Kumasi this morning. I tell you, I can’t spend more than 2 hours in this place. Ei! I just got down and decided to freshen up and get some food to eat. So I decided to visit the food joint here,” the man says, pointing at a food vendor.
He continues, “She has some waakye. I asked her how much the food was, and she said, GHC 30 and GHC 35.00. Ah! This early morning? What job have I done to earn that amount for food?”
The man then explains his experience with another vendor: “I decided to visit another vendor, and she said it starts from GHC 7.00. That does not include the additives. Kumasi, we can buy the same thing starting from GHC 5.00, and you can get spaghetti with some salad and co for GHC 1.00. Over here, the salad alone is GHC 3.00 upwards, and the spaghetti is GHC 2.00 upwards. Ei! I don’t think I can spend more than 2 hours here!?”
Since 2022, there have been numerous reports from individuals, groups, and institutions about the increasing expenses associated with living in the city.
Prices of goods and services, especially food, housing, and transportation, have surged, making it difficult for many to afford necessities.
Accra, according to a survey by Numbeo, published on Business Insider Africa in 2021, was ranked among the more expensive cities in Africa.
In a recent ranking of the most expensive cities for expatriates, Accra was listed among the top 15, alongside cities like Lagos, Johannesburg, and Pretoria.
The growing cost of living in Accra has sparked debates and concerns among residents and policymakers. Many are calling for measures to control prices and make the city more affordable for its inhabitants.
Watch the full video of the man’s complaint below:
In a recent turn of events, actor and National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate for Ayawaso West Wuogon, John Dumelo, has been captured in a video having a tense exchange with an alleged University of Ghana student executive.
The incident took place during the ongoing limited voter registration exercise on the university campus on an undisclosed day.
Twitter user @CastinBillz shared the footage, claiming, “John Dumelo attacks a Legon student during the ongoing Limited registration exercise. His reason is that the guy prevented him from talking to his girlfriend after her registration.”
However, this account was disputed by another user, @hybrid_4266, who stated, “Hi, this is false info. I was there. The whole thing began on Saturday when an NPP guy, Dacosta, tried to hit an NDC lady because she was arguing with another NPP lady. The police separated them and it calmed down. This same Dacosta guy tried to revive the old flame from Saturday and this video you see is Dumelo’s attempt to retaliate against Dacosta.”
Adding to the narrative, @junior_justice commented, “You claim you will snatch the phone of the MP when you see her taking contacts of students, a student says you cannot do that and boom, man vex.”
User @Kennethadedotun corroborated the story, noting, “I was there, and the narrative is true. That was what happened. As you can hear in the video, he threatened and swore to snatch Honorable Lydia’s phone. The person he attacked was a student executive.”
The upcoming election, set to take place in December 2024, will see Dumelo vying for the Ayawaso West Wuogon seat against his main contender, incumbent MP Lydia Alhassan.
Dumelo, born on February 3, 1984, in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana, is a well-known actor who entered the political arena in 2019. Despite not winning the seat in the previous election, he has remained a significant figure in Ghanaian politics. Dumelo’s campaign focuses on youth engagement, job creation, and community development.
John Dumelo attacks a legon student during the ongoing Limited registration exercise.
His reason is that the guy prevented him from talking to his girlfriend after her registration.pic.twitter.com/LhDow21zCS
In a bold daylight heist, two robbers on a motorbike fled with an undisclosed amount of money from the Pan African Savings and Loans branch on Spintex Road in Accra.
The robbery occurred on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, and was captured in videos shared on social media.
The thieves reportedly followed an individual who was transporting cash to the bank. They waited near a pharmacy across from the bank and attacked when they saw their target.
Gunshots heard in the video were initially thought to be a shoot out with the police. However, an eyewitness clarified that the robbers fired the shots as warnings.
In a dramatic turn of events, one robber fell from the motorbike during their escape but managed to quickly rejoin his accomplice, and they both sped away from the scene.
The Speaker of Parliament has firmly denied allegations of meeting with President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo outside Ghana.
This statement was issued in response to claims made by former Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu, suggesting that the Speaker, Bagbin, had a meeting with the President in Dubai prior to the rejection of the 2021 budget by Parliament.
On May 28, 2024, the Office of the Speaker released a statement labelling the accusations as “malicious” and “a palpable falsehood.”
The statement also clarified the Speaker’s role in parliamentary procedures, countering Amidu’s suggestion that Bagbin attempted to influence a situation beyond his authority.
“The Rt. Hon. Speaker requests Mr. Amidu to do the honourable thing and withdraw his statements and apologize unreservedly to the Speaker of Parliament and indeed the Parliament of Ghana, with the same prominence as he made the false and malicious statements, within seven days from the date of the release of this rejoinder,” the statement read.
It further warned, “The failure of Mr. Amidu to adhere to this request would leave the Rt. Hon. Speaker to no other option than to take steps necessary within his rights to vindicate his name.” The statement concluded with a signature from Peter Bamfo, Head of the Speaker’s Communications Unit.
Amidu’s Accusations:
In a letter criticizing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), its 2024 flagbearer, and national chairman, Amidu wrote: “Asiedu Nketiah and John Mahama, did your self-confessed corrupt Speaker of Parliament not meet the President in Dubai in 2021 before he returned to Parliament to turn a closed eye to his own determination that rejected the 2022 Budget Statement and Economic Policy of Government?
Did you not see, observe, and read the reaction and excitement amongst your Minority Leader and his team after meeting the President on 20 May 2024?”
Ghanaian rapper Medikal, born Samuel Adu Frimpong, has made a sensational statement about his estranged partner, Fella Makafui, regarding their daughter’s upbringing and household challenges.
In a candid revelation, Medikal shared his frustrations and concerns, particularly an incident where their daughter, Island, was allegedly in danger of consuming marijuana-infused candy.
In a video shared on GhPage TV on YouTube, Medikal said, “I have been through so much. I won’t say some things, because no matter what, she is my daughter’s mother. I can’t say some things. They are too gory. They are too heartbreaking,” Medikal stated, expressing his exhaustion with the situation. He continued, “At this point, I am tired. I am very tired.”
Medikal alleges that Fella has been negligent, “This lady can come home with toffees laced with marijuana, gummies that look like candies children will want to have. Island almost picked up… I don’t want to say things, but what they are doing is pushing me to the edge, you know.”
Despite the alleged turmoil, Medikal emphasizes his commitment to his daughter’s well-being, “I want my child to be happy. I just want her to be happy.”
He also detailed the financial responsibilities he bears, including the GHC 2000 monthly payments to the nanny, driver, chef, and housekeeper, while Fella, according to Medikal, does not contribute to the household duties.
Medikal’s statement sheds light on the complexities of co-parenting, especially when the relationship between parents is strained. He expressed a desire to avoid conflict for the sake of their child, “I do not want to have any trouble with this lady… I even at some point had to call people to come get her out of the house.”
The rapper also touched upon the pressures of public life and the expectations placed on them by society, “Those ladies who are on Instagram who work on TV, I do not want to mention any names. The ones you so desperately want to be like, so you get to travel around, etc, they all wish to be like you. They want to have a man who will be there for them.”
Medikal’s revelations have sparked discussions on the challenges faced by parents in the limelight, the responsibilities of co-parenting, and the impact of such disputes on the children involved.
In a startling disclosure, Ghanaian rapper Medikal has come forward with serious allegations against his estranged partner, Fella Makafui, concerning the safety of their daughter, Island.
Medikal, whose real name is Samuel Adu Frimpong, detailed a harrowing incident where their young daughter nearly ingested a ‘wee toffee,’ a candy laced with marijuana, allegedly left within her reach by her mother.
“I have been through so much. I won’t say some things, because no matter what, she is my daughter’s mother. I can’t say some things. They are too gory. They are too heartbreaking. At this point, I am tired. I am very tired,” Medikal expressed, revealing his exhaustion with the ongoing domestic strife. Despite the turmoil, he emphasized his desire for his daughter’s happiness and well-being.
Medikal recounted an alarming situation where Island was at risk of consuming marijuana-infused gummies, “This lady, can come home with toffees laced with marijuana, gummies that look like candies children will want to have. Island almost picked up… I don’t want to say things but what they are doing is pushing me to the edge you know. Island can come home, open her mum’s drawer, and she will see these wee toffees, ones that can make one very high upon consumption. Our daughter almost ate one of those gummies.”
The rapper also highlighted his role as a provider, ensuring the household’s needs are met, including the care of his daughter and the payment of her school fees.
He disclosed the monthly expenses for the nanny, driver, chef, and housekeeper, each amounting to GHC 2000, and lamented the lack of gratitude from Fella, “The house I live in, every month the nanny takes GHC 2K, the driver who takes my child to school also takes, GHC 2K. The chef who cooks for me… because the lady [Fella] does not cook in the house, because she says she is no longer with me.”
“It’s been almost years, she has never stepped in the kitchen to cook, so I always order food or the nanny being so good to me, she would cook for me to eat, or I would go outside, or my manager would bring me food, that is how I survive in the house. Despite all of that, I said, I was cool. So the nanny takes about GHC 2K, the driver takes about 2K, the chef also takes 2K, the housekeeper also takes 2K, a month. Other expenses have not even come in yet. My daughter’s feeding is yet to be mentioned, her school fees is yet to be mentioned, despite all of this, I still said, I was cool. Now I know that most people would say why don’t you kick her out of the house,”
Medikal’s statement paints a picture of a man striving to maintain peace and stability in a challenging co-parenting situation.
He shared his reluctance to escalate matters, “I do not want to have any trouble with this lady. She has done so many things that I have witnessed that, I even at some point had to call people to come get her out of the house.”
The rapper’s revelations have sparked a conversation about the responsibilities and challenges of co-parenting, especially under the public eye.
In a shocking revelation, Ghanaian rapper Medikal has accused his estranged wife, actress Fella Makafui, of a brutal assault while they were together.
The artist, known for his music and public persona, has come forward with a detailed account of the alleged incident, which he claims took place at his then residence at Caterpillar Junction in East Legon.
The Incident:
Medikal narrates that Fella Makafui, suspecting infidelity, scaled the wall into his compound one day. At the time, he was engaged in a video game session with friends, including Kwame Zain, who he cites as one of the many witnesses to the event.
“When I lived at Caterpillar Junction in East Legon, she jumped over my wall into my house because she suspected I was cheating on her with someone. She came with her cousin. I was playing video games with my friends, including Kwame Zain, who are my witnesses. She threw the tea I was drinking at me and hit my head with the cup,” he recounted.
The situation escalated when Fella, in a fit of rage, reportedly threw tea at Medikal, struck him with the cup, and proceeded to damage his PlayStation, television, and studio laptop.
In a further act of aggression, she is said to have repeatedly hit him with a hanger.
“She threw my PlayStation against the TV, cracking the screen, and smashed my laptop, which I use for recording in the studio, on the ground. She picked up a hanger and smashed my head with it several times,” he alleged.
Choosing not to retaliate, Medikal states he contacted the Lakeside Police Station to intervene, emphasizing his desire to avoid the situation spiraling out of control.
He underscores the legal presumption of innocence for women and the contrasting presumption of guilt often faced by men in such scenarios.
“I never made a move. I did not throw my hands. I just called the Lakeside Police Station and asked them to come and take their sister from my house because they knew us. They patrolled the area daily. I told them I did not want things to get out of hand. I did not want any trouble. A woman is innocent until proven guilty; a man is guilty until proven innocent, and I did not want to be in a position where they will put handcuffs on my hand,” Medikal noted.
Medikal challenged the veracity of his claims, invoking divine retribution if found to be lying, and urged sceptics to confirm his story with the chief officer at the Nanakrom Police Station.
“If I am lying about this, God should punish me right now. If you like, go to Lakeside, Nanakrom Police Station, and verify,” he mentioned.
The couple, who married in March 2020, has been in the public eye following their decision to divorce in January 2024. Despite their separation, they have agreed to co-parent their daughter, Island Frimpong. The relationship has been marred by accusations and counter-accusations, with Fella Makafui petitioning the police to investigate Medikal for allegedly publishing false news that endangered her life.
Public Interest:
This development adds another layer to the ongoing saga that has captivated the attention of fans and observers alike. As the story unfolds, the public awaits further details and any potential legal proceedings that may arise from these serious allegations.
This article aims to present the situation objectively, based on Medikal’s statements and available online sources. It is important to note that these are allegations and have not been proven in a court of law. The story is still developing, and further updates are expected.
Rapper Medikal recently made headlines with a detailed list of the various ways he has supported his ex-wife, Fella Makafui, throughout their relationship.
The pair, who were married in 2020, have had a highly publicized relationship that included both joyous and tumultuous moments.
Medikal and Fella’s Relationship Timeline
Medikal and Fella Makafui got married in a lavish ceremony in March 2020. Their relationship has been closely followed by the public and the media, with many ups and downs. They welcomed their daughter, Island, in August 2020. Despite their seemingly strong bond, the couple announced their separation in March 2024. Despite the split, they agreed to co-parent their daughter, an arrangement that has so far been fraught with tension.
In a recent statement, Medikal recounted the numerous ways he has supported Fella during their time together. He recounted how her previous boyfriends had mistreated her.
Business Ventures:
“The first boyfriend you had who helped you open a shop, when you guys broke up, he came to the shop, smashed up all the bottles, and took some of his drinks away. Your second man, a landguard, he also came to the shop to do the same thing. He took away all the cars he gave you. It was evident. A lot of people saw it online,” Medikal said.
Medikal highlighted his own contributions, saying, “Now me, I came through. My only crime was to say fuck everybody, I like you, I’ve got love for you, I will buy you a car, I will show the world that you are worth everything to me, as a man. I got you a car, customized the plate. The plate alone costs like GHC10,000. I did not mind. I wanted to make you smile. I wanted to show the world that I love you and I won’t make anyone disgrace you. I gave you the documents and papers to the car because I did not want you to feel like, I will do the same thing that your exes did to you. I am not that type of person. I am not that type of man.”
He continued by explaining how he helped her maintain her business. “Now they were moving you out of that shop because your rent was due. Within that same space, I paid your rent, I was in America by then. Mind you, we were not even married yet. I sent money through and paid for the shop for two years. Sorted a lot of things. It hurts me to even be disclosing all these because I am not that type of person. I do not even disclose things I do for strangers, let alone someone who has been my person. I sorted your shop at ARS for you, you had another shop around Mangoes, UPS, I sorted that one too for you.”
2. Financial Support:
Medikal claimed to have provided over GHC 300,000 to support Fella’s waist-trainer and skincare business. He emphasized that he never viewed it as a joint business venture but purely as support for her. He also mentioned transferring money directly to her account for business expenses, demonstrating his commitment to her financial independence.
“Now, you told me about your business. You wanted to do waist-trainer and skincare and whatnot. You told me about it, and I was like cool, I will support. Why not? Because I see you to be my woman, you are my lady so obviously, if I support it does not spoil anything. I put money into that shit. Me, if not for that lady, I would not have heard about Alibaba Express or whatever. That is where you order your things from. You showed me the website, and I was like cool. You made me understand how it works, let me put money into that business and we will make money together. From that time up till now, I never looked at it as our business where I should also be getting some money from.”
“Because I am already working. I am an artist. The money I take a day for a show, I am not sure that business can make that amount of money. But I decided to put money into that so that you can be okay, so that maybe when I do not have money you can also survive on your own or support. Whatever. I put over GHC 300,000 in this shit. Money, not check, cash, transfer to your account so you can order these things so you can make money. And I have never asked you for a cedi. I have not even asked you how much you make from the business or asked how much you charge. Because I am okay. If I play one show, I am fine, I have endorsement deals, I do features, every day I am travelling, I am making money, so I am good, I just want you to be good, as my lady as my woman.”
3. Personal Sacrifices:
Medikal disclosed his reservations about Fella undergoing plastic surgery after childbirth but eventually supported her decision financially out of love and concern for her well-being.
“You told me that, now that you have given birth, promoting the business will be slow and so you want to undergo a surgery. I told you, me I do not like women who do plastic surgery, lipo. Me I like my shit natural. That is what is attractive to me. Let’s keep it that way. It is normal to give birth and put on some weight. You are not the first person to give birth and then maybe lose some sick packs. And even the company you feel like you will use this to sell, you could use other ambassadors or influencers, to do it for you. But, madam said, no, she wants to do it herself. She wants to be the ambassador and influencer of the product, so she wants to do it herself. This was a battle for about 3 to 4 months. She will not speak to me because I said no, I don’t want plastic and lipo surgery. Me, I don’t like that. I do not have any problem with those who do it but for me, I do not like that thing. It is not attractive to me. This is not to ridicule anyone or to defame anyone,” he recounted.
Despite his reservations, Medikal eventually supported her decision. “Because of the love I had for this person and because we had a child at that period, I was like you know what, I will let you do it, how much is it, I am gonna pay for it. I paid for it. The first one she went to do, she did it in Nigeria. I was thinking, what if something happens to her, what if she dies? Because I am not there. What if something happens? Someone who just gave birth, because you want to have a flat tummy, you travel all the way to Nigeria to do a surgery. I got scared. I will be writing you, but no replies.”
Medikal’s revelations have stirred public opinion, with many questioning the authenticity and motives behind his detailed disclosures.
Some see it as an attempt to clear his name and demonstrate his loyalty and support during their marriage, while others view it as a strategic move to gain public sympathy amidst their separation.
This detailed recounting of Medikal’s support for Fella Makafui provides insight into the complexities of their relationship and highlights the sacrifices and investments made by both parties. As the story continues to unfold, it remains a focal point in Ghana’s entertainment news.
Visit our website for more detailed information about their relationship and recent developments.
A retired 74-year-old Ghanaian man, Nelson Shardey, residing in the UK for almost five decades, has been told to wait 10 years before the Home Office grants him permanent residency.
Shardey, from Wallasey in Wirral, believed he was considered British until 2019 when he discovered otherwise.
Despite contributing to the UK economy through taxes, he now faces substantial costs to secure his residency and access NHS services.
Having arrived in the UK in 1977 to study accountancy on a student visa, Shardey built a life in the country. He held various jobs, got married twice to British women, and raised two sons.
Nelson Shardey pictured alongside his two young sons
However, when he applied for a passport to visit Ghana after his mother’s passing, he learned he wasn’t recognized as British.
The Home Office instructed him to apply for the 10-year settlement route, costing approximately £7,000, plus £10,500 for NHS access.
Struggling with finances, especially after battling prostate cancer, Shardey expressed frustration at the process, feeling it unjust given his lifelong commitment to the UK.
Despite his contributions and recognition, including receiving a police award for bravery, Shardey faces a prolonged bureaucratic process.
Nelson Shardey was presented with the Police Bravery Award in the year 2007.
“Now, it would be inappropriate to comment on active legal proceedings,” said a Home Office spokesman.
Now, with legal assistance from Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit (GMIAU) and support from his sons, Shardey is challenging the Home Office’s decision in court, arguing that his case warrants exceptional treatment.
“We know that at least one caseworker has looked at his file and suggested that he should be granted indefinite leave to remain because there are exceptional facts,” said Nicola Burgess, a lawyer at GMIAU.
“And when you look at it on a personal level, if Nelson was your friend or your neighbour, you would absolutely agree that he should be given the immediate right to settle.”
Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) and a prominent member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Sammi Awuku, has made notable comments regarding the composition of political parties in Ghana.
Speaking on Peace FM’s ‘Kokrokoo’, Awuku stressed that political parties attract individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those involved in illicit activities.
He emphasized the significance of every vote, regardless of whether it comes from a religious leader or a criminal.
“The vote of a bishop is one and the vote of an armed robber is one. So why should I pretend that I am only campaigning for Bishops and Imams?” he stated during an interview on Peace FM’s morning show, Kokrokoo.
Awuku acknowledged that political campaigns target a wide audience, including individuals from marginalized communities such as “ghettos.”
Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of understanding and supporting individuals who may have engaged in illegal activities, suggesting that their circumstances might have led them to such actions.
Awuku underscored the role of political parties in offering opportunities for redemption and rehabilitation.
“You campaign to bad boys, there are ‘wee’ boys in there, the ‘powder’ boys are there, and etcetera. And so after doing all your campaigning to get the votes, it is not my duty to go and report that when I went to this person, they said they will vote for me, but he is an armed robber. Rather I am supposed to counsel him to get a job. Maybe circumstances pushed them into it,” he noted.
Political parties, according to Awuku, are a mix of “good and bad people” with different behaviors and motivations, adding that not all party members are academicians but include “ those who are level-headed, those who do bad things, and we have those who are willing to accept help to become better.”
The Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) and a prominent member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr Samuel Awuku, popularly known as Sammi Awuku, has made striking remarks about the composition of political parties in Ghana.
Awuku emphasized that political parties attract individuals from various backgrounds, including those who may engage in wrongdoing as part of their daily activities.
He stressed that every vote counts, whether it comes from a bishop or an armed robber.
“The vote of a bishop is one and the vote of an armed robber is one. So why should I pretend that I am only campaigning for Bishops and Imams?” he told host Kwame Sefa Kayi on Peace FM’s morning show, Kokrokoo.
Awuku acknowledged that political campaigns target a diverse audience, including individuals from marginalized communities such as “ghettos.”
Moreover, he emphasized the need for understanding and support for those who may have been involved in illegal activities, suggesting that their circumstances might have driven them to such actions.
Awuku highlighted the role of political parties in providing opportunities for redemption and rehabilitation.
“You campaign to bad boys, there are ‘wee’ boys in there, the ‘powder’ boys are there, and etcetera. And so after doing all your campaigning to get the votes, it is not my duty to go and report that when I went to this person, they said they will vote for me, but he is an armed robber, rather I am supposed to counsel him to get a job. Maybe circumstances pushed them into it,” he noted.
He added that political parties encompass a wide spectrum of individuals, ranging from the level-headed to those who may engage in unlawful behaviour, and as such, each person has their own reasons for affiliating with a political party, emphasizing the diversity within these organizations.
“So the political parties themselves are a cocktail of good and bad people. People should not think that political parties are only made up of academicians, not at all. We have those who are level-headed, and we have those who do bad things, and we have those who are willing to accept help to become better. But the point is that the five fingers are not the same. So everyone has their reasons for joining a political party.” he explained.
Awuku’s remarks come at a pivotal moment as Ghana gears up for the next general election, scheduled for December 2024.
Vice President Bawumia, having been chosen as the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate, is set to announce his running mate in June, as revealed by Awuku.
This development follows a defamation lawsuit that Zeinfiled in 2021, which cited harmful comments made by A Plus.
The legal battle revolved around statements by A Plus that negatively affected Zein’s reputation. The apology, made public on A Plus’s Facebook page on May 14, reads:
“Dear Hassan Abu Zein, I am writing to express my sincerest apologies for any harm caused by my comments made about you. It has come to my attention that these comments were based on lies and misinformation spread by Stanley, your jealous friend. He is a dangerous guy. Very!!!
“It may interest you to know that I’ve spent my adult life, fighting for the voiceless, underprivileged persons, especially women and children, and minority groups. However, I must admit that I was misinformed on this particular matter. I am grateful to you for the opportunity to apologize to bring finality to the matter.
“I deeply regret any distress or damage these false statements may have caused you and your reputation. It was never my intention to propagate falsehoods or tarnish your name in any way,” A Plus’ post read in part.
He continued, “I understand the seriousness of defamation and the impact it can have on individuals and their livelihoods. As a people-centered person, I take full responsibility for my actions and assure you that I will take appropriate measures to rectify this situation.
“Please accept my heartfelt apologies. I am committed to setting the record straight and ensuring that the truth is known. If there is anything I can do to make amends, please do not hesitate to let me know.”
Court records show that Zein sought a range of remedies, including a declaration of defamation, general damages of GH¢10 million, and a directive for A Plus to withdraw the defamatory comments using the same medium they were disseminated.
Zein also demanded a public apology from A Plus within seven days on the same platform where the defamation took place, along with a perpetual injunction to stop further defamation against his reputation as the International Human Rights Commission Ambassador at large.
The case, initially proceeding in the High Court of Accra, shifted direction when A Plus, through his legal representation, chose to settle out of court, leading to a mutually agreeable resolution.
On January 22, 2024, A Plus and Zein reached a settlement agreement, which Justice Kwasi Adjenim-Boateng endorsed as a consent judgment on January 29, 2024.
The settlement terms required A Plus to retract the defamatory statements and remove Zein’s image from the original publication platform. Additionally, A Plus agreed to issue a public apology to Zein via the same medium and to pay GH¢100,000 in costs to Zein, as detailed in the court documents.
Background
In December 2021, Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A Plus, made certain statements on Facebook that were deemed defamatory towards businessman Hassan Zein.
These comments led to a legal dispute, with Zein filing a defamation lawsuit against A Plus. The case centred on A Plus’s remarks, which were said to have damaged Zein’s reputation.
For a detailed view of the comments and subsequent remarks made by A Plus, readers are encouraged to refer to the screenshots provided below.
A new world record has been set by one-year-old Ace Liam, an extraordinary young talent from Ghana.
He has officially been recognized as the Guinness World Record holder for the Youngest Male Artist.
The record-breaking attempt took place in Accra from January 18 to January 20, 2024. The announcement came during a press conference held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024.
The Guinness World Records‘ confirmation letter stated, “We are thrilled to inform you that your application for Youngest artist (male) has been successful, and you are now the Guinness World Records Title Holder!”
Chantelle Eghan, Ace’s mother, revealed that her son began his artistic journey at just six months old.
She expressed her gratitude to the people of Ghana for their unwavering support throughout her son’s record-setting endeavour.
Ace Liam takes over the title from Dante Lamb, who previously held the record after achieving it at three years old in 2003.
