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Tag: Ambrose Dery

  • Top NPP members didn’t want Bawumia as Akufo-Addo’s running mate in 2008 – Manasseh

    Top NPP members didn’t want Bawumia as Akufo-Addo’s running mate in 2008 – Manasseh

    Senior figures within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) were strongly advocating for Ambrose Dery to be chosen as Nana Akufo-Addo’s running mate in the 2008 election. This was detailed in the book The President Ghana Never Got.

    The book, written by award-winning Ghanaian investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni, reveals that Akufo-Addo’s selection of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as his running mate encountered significant resistance from party leaders, who saw him as merely a skilled banker and economist.

    Although Akufo-Addo was committed to having Dr. Bawumia as his running mate, some party members felt that Ambrose Dery was a stronger candidate for the role.

    They argued that Dery was an experienced politician who could inspire and mobilize voters, whereas Bawumia was perceived as a dull banker lacking the charisma needed to sway voters toward the party.

    Additionally, they contended that if Akufo-Addo sought Northern representation, Dery would be the ideal choice. Nonetheless, Akufo-Addo stood firm in his decision.

    Following the party’s defeat in the election, the pressure on Akufo-Addo to replace his running mate intensified. However, he reportedly remained steadfast in his choice.

    “Ambrose Dery is a lawyer, and I am a lawyer. I want someone with an economics background to complement me. I will do the politics and he will do the technical things,” Akufo-Addo reportedly told a current cabinet minister who was also an MP when the MPs clamoured for Ambrose Dery,

    “I don’t want to blame my loss on that young man. If I change him, I’ll put the blame on him,” the book added.

    Additionally, Akufo-Addo was keen to avoid any appearance of unfairness, especially since Dr. Bawumia, who was the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank at the time, had to step down from his role after being chosen as the running mate. Replacing him would have been entirely unjust.

    Moreover, after the NPP lost the 2012 election and decided to contest the results in court, no politician was willing to risk taking the witness stand—except Dr. Bawumia.

    A cabinet minister mentioned to the author that this was a political gamble that no one else was prepared to undertake.

    However, Dr. Bawumia’s ability to display intelligence and quick thinking while responding to questions from lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata convinced all the top party officials that he was the ideal choice for the running mate position.

    “Mounting the witness box could destroy a politician forever and the party appreciated Dr Bawumia for taking the risk on its behalf. But Dr Bawumia’s stature in the party soared not only because he witnessed. He dazzled members of his party with his brilliance in the witness box.

    “He was sharp and witty, and not even the intimidating cross-examination from lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata could break him. When the hearing ended, he had won admirers beyond the political party. His detractors did not have any reason to doubt that Akufo-Addo had picked the best man for the position. If Akufo-Addo would contest again. Bawumia would, for the first time face no opposition.

    In 2016, President Akufo-Addo later declared his intention to run in the upcoming election, and “no sane soul in the NPP opposed the selection of Dr Bawumia as running mate,” the book added.

  • “Like it like this” – Former Interior Minister Ambrose ‘Bob Marley’ Dery sings

    “Like it like this” – Former Interior Minister Ambrose ‘Bob Marley’ Dery sings

    Former Interior Minister Ambrose Dery is one of the ministers affected by President Akufo-Addo’s latest reshuffle. 

    Unlike some of his counterparts who reportedly struggle to accept the changes, Mr. Dery has embraced his new role with enthusiasm, signaling a positive outlook amidst the transition.

    The reshuffle, which saw several key appointments and reassignments within the government, initially sparked speculation and apprehension among Ministers of State. However, Mr Dery’s response to the changes has been characterized by a remarkable display of composure and optimism.

    Despite the reshuffle not having any negative impact on him, Mr. Dery’s dismissal has been met with widespread approval and excitement. Many observers have attributed his apparent joy to this new role, which offers fresh opportunities for engagement and influence within the administration.

    A video clip capturing Mr. Dery’s jubilant reaction to his reassignment has circulated widely on social media, drawing attention to his unexpected display of exuberance. In the footage, the typically reserved former Interior Minister is seen dancing to the rhythm of the popular Bob Marley and the Wailers song, “Satisfy My Soul,” much to the delight of onlookers.

    The sight of Mr. Dery letting loose and embracing the moment has taken netizens by surprise, with many commending his ability to find joy in the midst of change. His spontaneous and joyful demeanor serves as a refreshing reminder of the resilience and adaptability of Ghana’s political leaders in the face of evolving circumstances.

    As Mr. Dery assumes his new responsibilities within the office of the President, his positive attitude and willingness to embrace change are likely to set a precedent for his colleagues. In a political landscape marked by uncertainty and transition, his example serves as a beacon of hope and optimism for the future.

  • Throwback: Moment Akufo-Addo lauded Ambrose Dery for being a powerful voice in his government

    Throwback: Moment Akufo-Addo lauded Ambrose Dery for being a powerful voice in his government

    In August 2023, President Akufo-Addo, commended Interior Minister Lawyer Ambrose Dery in the presence of the Overlord of Waala Traditional Area, Naa Fuseini Pelpuo IV, during his 3-day tour in the Upper West Region.

    The tour commenced on August 21 and concluded on August 23 before proceeding to Damongo in the Savannah Region.

    In a statement read by the President, he lauded the Member of Parliament for Nandom as a dedicated Cabinet Minister who consistently puts in efforts to accomplish tasks, expressing pride in having him as part of his Cabinet.

    The President emphasized, “You’re right Wa Naa, you have one great advantage, and that is the presence in my cabinet, the Minister for the Interior and the Member of Parliament for Nandom; he is a powerful voice in my government.”

    This statement was translated by the Municipal Chief Executive of Wa Central, Hon. Issahaku Tahiru Moomin, at the Wa Naa’s Palace.

  • Henry Quartey replaces Ambrose Dery as Interior Minister

    Henry Quartey replaces Ambrose Dery as Interior Minister

    Henry Quartey is slated to give up the Greater Accra Regional Minister role and take up the position of Minister for Interior.

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has unveiled significant changes to his ministerial team in a major cabinet reshuffle, responding to growing calls for a shake-up.

    The incumbent Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery has been axed and will be replaced by Henry Quartey upon approval by Parliament.

    Henry Quartey will now hand over his current role to Titus Glover. Mr Quartey is the Member of Parliament for Ayawaso Central Constituency.

    Among his mandates as Interior Minister would be to bring peace to Bawku and other areas of the country that are experiencing clashes between factions.

  • Curfew hours for Chereponi and Saboba extended

    Curfew hours for Chereponi and Saboba extended

    The Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery, has extended the curfew hours for Chereponi Township and its surroundings in the North East Region from 10:00 pm to 4:00 am, starting Wednesday, January 17, 2024, through an Executive Instrument.

    In a statement released on the same day, he appealed to chiefs, elders, opinion leaders, youth, and residents to maintain composure in the face of challenges, emphasizing the use of non-violent methods to contribute to the peace of the area.

    Simultaneously, a comprehensive prohibition is in effect, forbidding individuals in both communities and their vicinity from possessing arms, ammunition, or any offensive weapons. Any violators discovered with such items will face arrest and prosecution.

    Last week, Mr. Dery similarly adjusted the curfew hours for Bawku Municipality and its environs in the Upper East Region, setting it from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am starting Friday, January 12, 2024.

    Again, the community’s leaders and residents were urged to exercise restraint and promote peace through non-violent means amid challenges.

  • Interior Ministry releases list of public holidays in 2024

    Interior Ministry releases list of public holidays in 2024

    As the nation steps into the promising year of 2024, Ghanaians can anticipate a series of statutory public holidays that will commemorate significant events and cultural celebrations. 

    The official list of public holidays for the year has been revealed by the Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery, providing citizens with dates to observe and reflect on the nation’s heritage.

    The holidays are not only a time for rest and relaxation but also serve as opportunities for communities and families to come together. 

    They play a crucial role in honoring historical milestones, religious observations, and cultural traditions that shape the fabric of Ghanaian society.

    Among the anticipated holidays are those that mark important historical events, allowing citizens to reflect on the journey of the nation and the sacrifices made by those who came before. Additionally, religious holidays provide moments for spiritual reflection and observance, contributing to the diverse tapestry of Ghana’s cultural landscape.

    Below is a list of public holidays as outlined by the Interior Ministry:

    With New Year’s Day, January 1 already gone by, the next public holiday will be January 7, 2024. This falls on Sunday so it will be observed on Monday.

    The next holiday is on March 6 which is Independence Day.

    The Easter holidays will follow with Good Friday and Easter Monday falling on March 29 and April 1 respectively. May Day, otherwise known as Workers’ Day, is on May 1.

    Founders’ Day which is to celebrate the founding fathers of the nation will be on August 4, while Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day which is to celebrate the birthday of Ghana’s first president will be on September 21.

    December 2024 will have three public holidays made up of Farmer’s Day, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day falling on December 6, December 25, and December 26 respectively.

    Two other statutory holidays that commemorate the Islamic festive seasons do not have their dates fixed yet by the Ministry of the Interior.

    “There are no fixed dates for Eid-Ul-Fitr and Eid-Ul-Adha because they are movable feasts. The dates for the observation are provided by the Office of the Chief Imam in the year,” the ministry noted.

  • Interior Minister must be summoned to answer for delayed payment of allowances for MPs’ bodyguards – Sam George

    Interior Minister must be summoned to answer for delayed payment of allowances for MPs’ bodyguards – Sam George

    Ningo-Prampram MP, Samuel Nartey George, has requested that the Minister of Interior, Ambrose Dery, be summoned in Parliament to explain why government has delayed in paying the 30% allowance promised to police officers assigned to guard Members of Parliament.

    According to Sam George, the delay is negatively impacting the morale of these officers.

    He stated, “There is a critical issue that is affecting the morale of bodyguards assigned to MPs in the house. The issue of current mistreatment is because when the signal came for them to be transferred from their various units to the parliamentary protection unit, that signal came with a certain benefit of 30% allowance to be paid to them.”

    He further added, “It appears that the majority of our police are not receiving that and is affecting the well-being of bodyguards. So if the Interior Minister can be brought to come and explain to us what that is, we will be grateful,” he said.

    Sam George raised the issue during a presentation related to the upcoming week’s business in Parliament. Specifically, he addressed the matter while contributing to the presentation by the Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu.

  • Govt donates 30 vehicles to Ghana Immigration Service to boost effective border control and safety

    Govt donates 30 vehicles to Ghana Immigration Service to boost effective border control and safety

    Government has donated 30 vehicles to the  Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) for effective border checks and control in the country. 

    The donation, which was overseen by the Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery, saw a fleet that included 23 Toyota Land Cruisers GXR, three Toyota Land Cruisers Twin Turbo, one Toyota Land Cruiser VXS, one Toyota Tundra, and two Toyota Double Cabin Pick-ups.

    The move comes after the recent terrorism insurgencies in neighbouring countries, followed by stakeholder warnings to Ghana and the need to beef up security against potential terrorist attacks.

    Highlighting the government’s awareness of the threats these undesirable elements pose at the country’s borders, especially at the Northern frontiers, the Member of Parliament for Nandom constituency in the Upper West Region expressed the government’s confidence in the service and it’s ability to protect Ghana’s borders, hence the need for the delivery.

    “The government views the GIS as an integral part of the security architecture that can deal with the insecurities at the border, hence the donation of the cars.

    “It is in this direction that we are gathered here today to unveil these vehicles to you for effective border management and security,” Mr Dery said.

  • Police to establish firing range for licensed firearms – Interior Minister

    Police to establish firing range for licensed firearms – Interior Minister

    The Minister for the Interior, Ambrose Dery, has announced that the Police administration is planning to establish a firing range for the training of licensed firearm holders.

    This training facility will also be used to train personnel from various security agencies, including the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Immigration Service.

    During an interview with journalists on August 1, the Minister expressed gratitude to the public for their increased confidence in the Police and their collaboration in providing valuable information to solve criminal cases.

    He highlighted the ongoing efforts to register arms for security agencies and mentioned that a shooting range will soon be operational for training those with permission to possess firearms.

    He also emphasized that individuals found in possession of unlicensed firearms will face legal consequences.

    Addressing the issue of the proliferation of illegal arms in the country, the Deputy Director of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Gyebi Asante, pointed out that Ghana’s porous borders are contributing to the problem.

    He mentioned that conflicts in neighboring countries are resulting in weapons being smuggled into Ghana through these weak borders.

    Additionally, he noted the existence of conflict entrepreneurs who sponsor the illegal arms trade.

    The Police recently arrested 14 suspects on July 25, 2023, in connection with a deadly clash that resulted in the deaths of two individuals near Dormaa Ahenkro in the Bono Region.

    The suspects were apprehended with eight pump-action guns, a cutlass, and a knife, and they are currently in Police custody, assisting with the investigation.

    They are scheduled to appear before the court on the same day to face justice for their actions.

  • Founders Day: Government declares August 4 public holiday

    Founders Day: Government declares August 4 public holiday

    The Minister for the Interior, Ambrose Dery, has officially proclaimed Friday, 4th August 2023, as a Statutory Public Holiday across the country.

    This special day, known as Founders’ Day, is dedicated to honoring the visionary leaders who played a pivotal role in Ghana’s journey to independence.

    Minister Ambrose Dery, in his formal announcement, called upon all citizens to observe this holiday with deep respect and gratitude for the nation’s founders.

    Founders’ Day holds profound historical significance, as it commemorates the courage and determination of Ghanaian heroes and heroines who tirelessly fought for their country’s liberation.

    According to the official statement, “The general public is hereby informed that Friday, 4th August 2023 which marks Founders’ Day, is a Statutory Public Holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country,” the official statement said.

  • Interior Minister summoned by Parliament

    Interior Minister summoned by Parliament

    On August 1, 2023, the Minister of Interior, Ambrose Dery, is expected to appear before the Parliament.

    The summons comes in response to alleged police brutalities resulting in the death of a 32-year-old man, Yussif Salawudeen.

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Asawase, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, made a statement on the Floor of Parliament urging the House to invite the Interior Minister.

    “I am making a request to this House to invite the Interior Minister to update the House from the Police’s end on what truly happened and led to the death of this young man and to also request that we may have to independently investigate because it has been proven again and again that each time we leave it to the police, they don’t get to do anything.”

    The purpose is to provide clarity on the incident that led to the youth attacking the Asawase police station on a recent Sunday.

    “I am requesting this House to invite the Interior Minister to present the police’s perspective on what truly transpired, leading to the death of this young man. Additionally, I propose that we conduct an independent investigation, as it has been evident that relying solely on the police to investigate has yielded unsatisfactory results.”

    Muntaka also appealed to his constituents, who were enraged by the tragic incident and consequently engaged in property vandalism, to remain calm and uphold peace.

    “I urge the angry youth to remember that resorting to violence and property damage does not rectify the situation. Let us keep in mind that there are wrongdoers in every group, and taking the law into our own hands is not the solution.”

    “I want to call on the irate youth that two wrongs do not make a right, and so we should all remember that there are bad nuts everywhere, and so we should not take the law into our own hands and vandalise properties,” he added.

    The First Deputy Speaker, Joseph Osei-Owusu, ruled that the Minister should brief the House on the incident on August 1, 2023, so that appropriate actions can be taken thereafter.

  • Parliament passes Narcotics Bill

    Parliament passes Narcotics Bill

    On July 12, 2023, Ghana’s Parliament passed the Narcotics Control Commission Amendment Bill, granting the Minister for the Interior the power to issue licenses for industrial cannabis cultivation.

    Regarding the Supreme Court’s previous ruling on the unconstitutionality of a clause in the bill, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin clarified that Parliament was not reviewing the decision but rather rectifying an error made by the Supreme Court.

    The Minister for the Interior, Ambrose Dery, presented and initiated the first reading of the Narcotics Regulation Commission Amendment Bill, 2023, in Parliament on July 6.

    The Supreme Court invalidated the law granting licenses for cannabis cultivation, commonly known as ‘wee’, due to a lack of parliamentary debate as required by Article 106 (5) (6) of the 1992 Constitution.

    Expressing dissatisfaction with the ruling, the Speaker highlighted the country’s missed opportunities and revealed that he had conveyed his displeasure during a meeting with the Supreme Court justices.

    He urged the court to consult Parliament for comprehensive briefings when making such decisions.

  • “Govt is not going to tamper with 2024 elections” – Interior Minister

    Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery, has refuted claims suggesting that government plans to win the 2024 elections through the back door.

    According to Mr Dery, contrary to claims, government has nothing up its sleeves ahead of the next polls.

    Interacting with the media in Parliament today, the minister said: “Let me make it absolutely clear, “this government is not going to tamper with 2024 elections.”

    His comment comes after a controversial leaked tape gone viral on social media hinted at plans to have the current IGP removed as his presence would affect the chances of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) retaining power.

    Per portions of the tape, some anonymous individuals expressed concern over the ability of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to break the 8 should Dr Akuffo Dampare remain in office.

    “Alhaji, my only problem (is) this current IGP, if we do (make)  a mistake and take him to the elections, it will not help us. It will not help us at all and I will not mind if the position is not given to me but that man is changed; because he will not help us, he will not help us at all. He won’t help the party at all.

    “I know there are others who are also good for this position, if I don’t get and this man is changed and those people that we think they are our men get I (it is ok)… Because we need to break this 8. That is important, we need to break the 8,” a voice was heard saying.

    But the Interior Minister shot down this claims, stating that the government has been impressed with the work of the current Police administration.

    According to the minister, the mantra ‘law is a respecter of no persons’ has been personified under the leadership of Dr George Akuffo Dampare.

    “We have made a lot of progress. We have a police system that is professional that will arrest you whether you are an MP, Minister. They will arrest you even if you are a police officer,” he said.

    Mr Ambrose Dery further indicated that President Akufo-Addo remains committed to providing Ghanaians a security system that treats all equal before the law.

    “What the President of this country made clear right back to the manifesto of the election before the first term was that there was a fear syndrome in Ghana and part of the fear syndrome was that people thought that we had a security system that was not across the board. It favoured a class of people in office who were too big to be touched and therefore the tenant of rule of law that we are equal before the law was not tenable.”

    “As far as I am concerned. We have made a lot of progress along that line,” he added.

    Dr George Akuffo Dampare was sworn in as the 23rd Inspector General of the Ghana Police Service in October 2021.

    Source: The Independent Ghana | Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • Interior Minister rejects leaked tape on ploy to remove Dampare

    Interior Minister rejects leaked tape on ploy to remove Dampare

    Minister for Interior, Ambrose Dery, has dismissed claims that the government seeks to remove from office, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, as part of its measures to retain power come 2024 elections.

    His affirmation comes after a controversial leaked tape gone viral on social media hinted at plans to have the current IGP fired due to his incorruptible posture.

    Per portions of the tape, some anonymous individuals expressed concern over the ability of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to break the 8 should Dr Akuffo Dampare remain in office.

    “Alhaji, my only problem… this current IGP if we do a mistake and take him to the elections, it will not help us. It will not help us at all and I will not mind if the position is not given to me but that man is changed; because he will not help us, he will not help us at all… he won’t help the party at all.

    “I know there are others who are also good for this position, if I don’t get and this man is changed and those people that we think they are our men get I (it is ok)t… Because we need to break this 8. That is important, we need to break the 8… Because I wouldn’t want doctor to become the flagbearer and then we lose the elections… ” a voice was heard saying.

    But the Interior Minister has distanced the government from the statement’s made in the leaked tape.

    Interacting with the press in Parliament on Tuesday, Mr Ambrose Dery indicated that government has been impressed with the work of the current Police administration.

    Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare

    According to the minister, the mantra ‘law is a respecter of no persons’ has been personified under the leadership of Dr George Akuffo Dampare.

    “We have made a lot of progress. We have a police system that is professional that will arrest you whether you are an MP, Minister. They will arrest you even if you are a police officer,” he said.

    Mr Ambrose Dery further indicated that President Akufo-Addo remains committed to providing Ghanaians a security system that treats all equal before the law.

    “What the President of this country made clear right back to the manifesto of the election before the first term was that there was a fear syndrome in Ghana and part of the fear syndrome was that people thought that we had a security system that was not across the board. It favoured a class of people in office who were too big to be touched and therefore the tenant of rule of law that we are equal before the law was not tenable.”

    “As far as I am concerned. We have made a lot of progress along that line,” he added.

    Dr George Akuffo Dampare was sworn in as the 23rd Inspector General of the Ghana Police Service in October 2021.

    Meanwhile, Mr Ambrose Dery has stated emphatically that “this government is not going to tamper with 2024 elections.” “Let me make it absolutely clear,” he stressed.

    Source: The Independent Ghana | Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • Supreme Court erred in declaring cannabis cultivation unconstitutional – Ambrose Dery


    The government has voiced its opinion that the Supreme Court’s decision to strike out provisions in the Narcotic Control Commission Act, which permitted the cultivation of certain types of cannabis for medicinal and industrial uses, is a significant error.

    Previously, the Supreme Court had ruled in favor of an applicant who invoked the court’s original jurisdiction to strike down the provision, citing a violation of Article 106 of the 1992 Constitution.

    The Office of the Attorney-General filed a review application, but it was ultimately dismissed in a 5-4 decision.

    During discussions on amending the Narcotic Control Commission Act, the Minister of Interior, Ambrose Dery, argued that the proposed amendment does not aim to legalize recreational cannabis use.

    Instead, it seeks to establish a framework for granting special licenses for cannabis production.

    “To therefore say that Section 43 is unconstitutional, was in my humble opinion a grievous error. However, because we need to be in tandem with the international movement, and also because we consider this to be a public health issue and benefit of industrial as well as economic value, this amendment is necessary to let us put back what has been in my view declared unconstitutional,” Mr. Dery argued.

    In response to the Supreme Court’s ruling, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, criticized it as improper.

    As a result, he referred the Narcotics Control Commission amendment bill to the Defense and Interior Committee for thorough evaluation.

    He specifically instructed the committee to submit their report within the next seven days.

    “I think the country is losing a lot as a result of this decision. We need to work expeditiously to rectify the wrong. I hope that the three arms of government will work together and respect each other. In cases of doubt, it is important to consult the other arm before giving finality to whatever decision the other arms want to take.

    “I don’t think that it is proper for the judiciary, without knowing how we conduct our business here, to really go into how we conduct our business and make such an important decision without consulting the House. That is improper,” the Speaker of Parliament said.

  • Replace firemen killed in the course of duty with qualifying relatives – Interior Minister to GNFS

    Replace firemen killed in the course of duty with qualifying relatives – Interior Minister to GNFS

    Minister of Interior, Mr. Ambrose Dery, has proposed that the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) implements a system that will substitute fire personnel who die in the line of duty with relatives who meet the necessary requirements.

    To the Minister, this scheme, if well implemented, will go a long way not only to ease the pain of family members who have lost a loved one in the service but also to boost the morale of fire officers.

    Mr. Abrose Dery said rewarding and honouring personnel who die during duty are the best motivating factor in any field of work.

    He, therefore, charged the GNFS to come out with modalities on how the scheme seeks to replace personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty with family members with the right qualifications.

    The Minister also touched on benefits for firefighters who die of diseases in the discharge of their duties.

    So far, five firefighters have lost their lives in the line of duty.

  • Govt declares April 24 statutory holiday

    Govt declares April 24 statutory holiday

    April 24 has been declared a public holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr celebration. This was announced by the Ministry of Interior, in a statement, on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.

    He explained that the Eid-ul-Fitr celebration falls on Saturday and as such the President through an Executive Instrument declared April 24 as a public holiday. 

    “The general public is hereby notified that Saturday, 22nd April 2023, marks Eid-ul-Fitr which is a statutory holiday.”

    “However, in view of the fact that 22nd April falls on a Saturday, His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana, has by Executive Instrument (E), in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act, (Act 601) declared Monday, 24th April 2023 as an additional public holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country.”

    This year’s month-long fasting by Muslims started on March 22, 2023, to mark the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.

    Muslims believe the Holy Quran was revealed in Ramadan and throughout the month, they fast and engage in other rituals to get closer to Allah.

    Eid-ul-Fitr is an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide to mark the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting (sawm).

    The day marks the conclusion of the 29 or 30 days of dawn-to-sunset fasting.

  • Newly established police unit to be dispatched to Bunkpurugu-Yunyoo – Dery

    Newly established police unit to be dispatched to Bunkpurugu-Yunyoo – Dery

    According to Mr. Ambrose Dery, the Interior Minister, two platoons of the Formed Police Unit (FPU) would soon be dispatched to the Bunkpurugu-Yunyoo Police District Command to bolster local law enforcement in the area.

    This, he said would go a long way to help curb the increasing cases of robberies and other violent crimes in the North East Region and the Bunkpurugu-Yunyoo area.

    Mr Dery said this in response to a question by Dr Abed-Nego Azumah Bandim, National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Bunkpurugu.

    The MP asked the Minister what measures have been put in place to curb the increasing cases of armed robberies in the Bunkpurugu-Nakpanduri District.

    The Minister said the Bunkpurugu-Yunyoo District Police Command was responsible for the Bunkpurugu-Nyankpanduri and Yunyoo-Nasuan Local Government Districts.

    He said there were three Police Stations in two Districts with 49 Police personnel, which indicates that the Police to civilian ratio in the district was one Police to 2,842 civilians.

    Mr Dery noted that this ratio was far below the United Nations requirement of a 1:500 Police civilians ratio.

    He reiterated that this notwithstanding, the Police Administration had put in place measures to combat robberies and other violent crimes in the district.

    The measures he mentioned included intelligence-led Policing, mounting Police Check Points at robbery-prone areas, and escort of commercial vehicles and market women to and from various markets.

    Other measures included foot and vehicle patrols and organised swoops at criminal hideouts.

    “Some newly passed out constables have been posted to augment the existing Police strengthen in the District to perform visibility duties,” he stated.

  • Criminals cannot take Ghana captive – Ambrose Dery

    Criminals cannot take Ghana captive – Ambrose Dery

    According to Ambrose Dery, minister of the interior, due to equipment purchases made by the security forces, criminals can no longer hold the nation hostage.

    Speaking on the floor of Parliament during a debate on the President’s State of Nation Address, Mr. Dery assures the public that NADMO is now ready to deal with disasters such as earthquakes.

    “Ghana now, Mr. Speaker, we do not have a threat of being held hostage by criminals. Is it perfect, no, we intend to continue to do more and Mr. Speaker let’s use this opportunity to appeal to the public. That we should not shield suspects even if they are relatives. Because if we do that then it means that they will harm us, and harm other people.

    “So we will like to say that we will continue to depend on them and that security is a collective responsibility. With the numbers we need more even though the recruitment on the Immigration, Fire Service, Prisons and all have been unprecedented as compared to the past,” the Interior Minister stated.

    He however stated that despite the number of recruitment the nation still needs more.

    “Because each person does want to have a police station established. Mr. Speaker the other agencies under the Ministry of Interior are doing very well. Right now with NADMO, we are moving into the contingency plan in the short term,” Mr. Dery indicated.

  • Wa killings: 27 suspects arrested

    Wa killings: 27 suspects arrested

    Some 27 individuals have been arrested in relation to the murder of five security guards in the Wa Municipality of the Upper West Region.

    This was revealed by the Minister of Interior, Ambrose Dery, when he appeared before Parliament to answer some urgent questions filed by some members of the House on March 2, 2023.

    Eight suspects have been discharged per the Attorney General’s advice.

    The sector minister added that no arrests had been made regarding the three missing security guards, and the police were still working to arrest the perpetrators.

    He assured that the ministry has been sensitising the youth in the area to be vigilant and be on the lookout for the activities of serial killers.

    He also revealed that National Counter Terrorism Unit and the National Small Weapon and Armour Team (SWAT) had been deployed to augment the strength of local police within the Atebubu and Yeji of the Bono East region to combat armed robbery.

  • Wa clash: Three security personnel still not found – Interior Minister

    Wa clash: Three security personnel still not found – Interior Minister

    According to the Ministry of Interior, three private security guards who went missing after recent killings in Wa in the Upper West Region have not yet been found.

    About 10 private security men were killed by unknown assailants in Wa last year which led to the arrest of 27 suspects in connection with the incidents.

    Providing an update on the floor of Parliament on the current state of investigations into the serial killings, the Minister of Interior, Ambrose Dery said efforts are underway to arrest the other perpetrators of the heinous act.

    Giving a breakdown of the progress of investigations so far, Mr. Dery said, “following the disappearance of five-night security guards who were kidnapped by assailants in different locations and subsequently murdered within the Wa Municipality, a special investigation led to the arrest of 27 suspects, and out of the number arrested, 8 suspects have been discharged on the Attorney General’s advice, 15 suspects are on court bail awaiting the Attorney General’s report.”

    He also added that “the police are yet to identify and locate three other missing security guards. The three were reported missing between September and October 2022 and no arrest has been made in respect of the three missing guards. The police have intensified education campaigns in the area to sensitize the residents concerning serial killings and kidnappers.”

    “Police intelligence is also working around the clock for clues that will lead to the arrest of the perpetrators,” he further disclosed.

  • Minister for Interior renews curfew hours for Alavanyo, Nkonya townships

    Minister for Interior renews curfew hours for Alavanyo, Nkonya townships

    The Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery has extended the curfew hours for Alavanyo, Nkonya and its surroundings in Oti Region until Sunday, February 26, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

    The Ministry has expressed its appreciation to the chiefs, elders, opinion leaders, youth, and people of the area for their efforts in ensuring peace in the area and urged them to use the established mechanisms for the resolution of all their conflicts and disputes.

    Meanwhile, the government has reiterated that there is a ban on all persons in the two towns and their environs from carrying arms, ammunition, or any offensive weapons, and any person found with any arms or ammunition will be arrested and prosecuted.

  • Curfew hours imposed on Kpatinga residents renewed

    Curfew hours imposed on Kpatinga residents renewed

    The Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery, has extended the curfew hours in Kpatinga in the Northern Region and its surroundings.

    The curfew starts from 12:00 midnight to 4:00am effective Friday, February 24, 2023.

    Mr Dery said in a statement that the government continues to express its appreciation to the Chiefs, Elders, Opinion Leaders, Youth and people of the area to exercise restraint in the face of the challenges confronting them and to use non-violent means to channel their energies into ensuring peace.

    There is a total ban on all persons in the Kpatinga and surrounding areas from carrying arms, ammunition or any offensive weapon.

    Any person found with any arms or ammunition will be arrested and prosecuted, he said.

    Homes were torched and residents fled the Kpatinga in the Gushegu Municipality of the Northern Region after clashes between two persons holding themselves as the rightful claimants to the Kpatinga skin who have the right to enskin sub-chiefs.

  • Police officer shot by Caprice armed robbers promoted

    The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, has conferred a Sergeant rank on the police officer who was injured in a shoot-out with some armed robbers in Accra.

    The officer and his team were following intelligence on some criminals who attacked a woman and robbed her at Caprice, a suburb of Accra, on Friday, December 9.

    Two of the robbers were killed in the crossfire while one was arrested.

    But one police officer, a corporal, suffered multi-fragmented fractures to the bone of his right thigh after exchanges with the robbers in their hideout.

    The injured officer was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he has been receiving treatment.

    He is billed to undergo surgery.

    On Monday, December 12, Interior Minister Ambrose Dery visited him at the hospital.

    A statement issued by the Ghana Police Service on Tuesday commended the injured officer and the other members of the operation team for “the role they played leading to the arrest of one of the robbers and the death of two others”.

    The statement, signed by Grace Ansah-Akrofi, the Director of the Public Affairs Directorate, said adequate provision has been made under the Police Emergency Medical Intervention Fund (PEMIF) to provide him the best medical care in Ghana or any part of the world.

     

  • Caprice robbery attack: Interior Minister visits police officer shot during arrest

    Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery, has paid a visit to the police officer who got injured during a shootout between the Police Service and suspected robbers who orchestrated a robbery at Caprice on December 9.

    The minister’s visit at the hospital was to assess the condition of the officer and also wish him well.

    During the exchange of gunfire, two of the suspects were shot dead.

    The Hon. Minister took the opportunity to thank the Police for their invaluable services to the country and assured them of his Ministry’s commitment to support the Police in the fight against crime.

    Accompanying the Hon . Minister were the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo-Dampare, Commissioner of Police (COP) Nathan Kofi Boakye, COP/George Mensah, COP/Paul Manly Awini, COP/Habiba Twumasi-Sarpong and some other senior officers.

    Meanwhile, the Police have managed to apprehend one of suspects.

    They have pledged to see to it that the rest of the gang members are arrested.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Crackdown on black market operators was to control cedi depreciation – Interior Minister

    The latest arrests of individuals suspected of operating on the FX parallel market, according to Interior Minister Ambrose Dery, are a part of efforts to prevent further devaluation of the cedi.

    According to him, illicit black-market traders’ activities were causing the cedi to continue to fall against other major currencies, such as the US dollar, necessitating a crackdown to maintain compliance with Ghana’s forex laws and regulations.

    In response to worries expressed by Torgbui Amenya Fiti V, Paramount Chief of the Aflao Traditional Area, about the November 10 arrest of numerous currency dealers at the Aflao Border.

    Torgbui Fiti made the comment during the recent 25th Anniversary of his coronation and the climax of the annual Godigbe Festival of the people of Aflao.

    Mr Dery said: “We’re all aware of the falling cedi to the dollar and it’s the disorder and lawless way in which foreign exchange is being done in Ghana.”

    “It’s not done anywhere that you can get foreign money/exchange without telling us how you got it. How could you go to a place without providing an identity and you can change money?”.

    “The lawlessness in that is also contributing to the falling cedi and the Bank of Ghana has decided to ensure that it brings sanity. I’ll assure you, all those who are acting lawfully will be allowed to operate but all those operating illegally will be stopped.”

    Mr Dery said the same reason applied to arresting the cedi’s free fall that the Central Bank had withdrawn forex support for the importation of some foods that could be produced locally including rice and vegetable oil.

    The Minister promised to forward Torgui Fiti’s concerns but said it was important to explain the reason for the arrest.

    He assured that the country’s borders would remain open as the government was committed to the ECOWAS border protocol but urged all stakeholders to cooperate with security agencies to keep the peace and security of the nation.

  • Friday declared public holiday to commemorate Farmers’ Day celebration

    The Ministry of Interior has declared Friday, December 2, 2022, as a public holiday to be observed by Ghanaians across the country.

    “The general public is hereby reminded that Friday, December 2, 2022, which marks Farmers’ Day, is a Statutory Public holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country,” the Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery, in a statement said.

    The first Friday in December every year is set aside in Ghana to honour and recognise farmers and fisher folk in the various regions, for their efforts in the promotion of agriculture.

    Last year’s National Farmers’ Day was celebrated in Cape Coast in the Central Region.

     

  • Let’s work to maintain Ghana’s peace and security – Akufo-Addo

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged the citizenry to work hard to ensure Ghana keeps the prevailing peace and security to propel economic development.

    He said those two ingredients were what investors looked out for in a country before investing their resources and that Ghana already had them, making the country an attractive investment destination, hence the need to protect same.

    The President said this in a speech read for him by Mr Ambrose Dery, the Minister of the Interior, who represented him at the 25th Anniversary of the coronation of Torgbui Adzonugaga Amenya Fiti V, the Paramount Chief of Aflao, and the climax of the Godigbe Festival.

    The festival was on the theme: “25 Years of Inspirational Leadership and the Restoration of the Rights and Privileges of the Aflawuawo.”

    “The existence of peace and security are necessary prerequisites for economic development of the country. Ghana as a country has been blessed over time to remain stable and peaceful,” he said.

    “For the last two consecutive years, Ghana has been noted as the second most peaceful country in Africa, behind the Island of Mauritius… I wish to, therefore, call on all of you to join hands in a collective effort to ensure that Ghana continues to be peaceful and safe for us all to achieve the goals of government.”

    President Akufo-Addo commended the security agencies for their roles in keeping the peace and security of the country and assured them of providing them with all the necessary logistics to facilitate their work, and expressed the government’s commitment to the well-being of Ghanaians.

    The government’s bold but difficult decisions had resulted in some gains, he said, notwithstanding the current challenges, adding that government would work to bring the country back to the road of prosperity.

    The Godigbe Festival of the chiefs and people of Aflao and the coronation anniversary had former President John Dramani in attendance, as well as a delegation of chiefs from other parts of Ghana and the republics of Togo and Benin. They were treated to exciting cultural displays and music.

     

     

     

  • Fire Conference: Pay attention to ‘burnt to death’ cases – Ambrose Dery to GNFS

    The Minister for the Interior, Mr. Ambrose Dery, has charged the Ghana National Fire Service to pay particular attention to the phenomenon of ‘burnt to death cases’ during fire outbreaks.

    He said the situation where fire victims are trapped and firefighters are unable to rescue them is on the rise and is a worry to the nation.

    Mr. Ambrose Dery made the call during the start of a three-day Fire Conference for stakeholders and regional Fire Commanders.

    The 3-day maiden Fire Conference discussing “Fire Safety and Management, Safer Use of Electricity as a source of power to prevent fire, the role of the Forestry Commission in the management of bush fires in Ghana.

    The conference is also to touch on employing the right structural design and appropriate tools and equipment for effective fire management for national development. The meeting brought together stakeholders from other sectors and the various regional fire commanders.

    Mr. Dery charged them to come up with strategies that would help reduce domestic fires, which are on the rise in the country.

    The Chief Fire Officer, Mr. Julius Kuunuor, encouraged the personnel to continue their hard work to ensure the growth of the service.

    The conference is on the theme: “Enhancing effective fire management for national development.”

     

     

  • Gov’t still committed to probing deaths recorded during 2020 polls – Ambrose Dery

    Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery says government is committed to justice for the victims and families of those who died during the 2020 elections.

    At least five people died in separate violent incidents across the country during the election that saw president Akufo-Addo win a second term.

    Two years after the incidents, there have been no arrests or prosecutions.

    At a press conference, the Interior Minister promised government’s willingness to get to the bottom of the murders.

    “We want to investigate the murders and the investigations are ongoing. The police service did not have a department that handles cold cases, but now it has. As soon as we find the people, we will deal with them, but I can assure you that we are investigating those people who were killed.”

    For instance, in the last polls, two persons lost their lives in the Techiman South constituency after being hit by warning shots from security personnel, while six others sustained gunshot wounds.

    The incident started after a misunderstanding ensued over the declaration of the election results.

    Members of the NPP in the constituency, in March 2021, petitioned the Interior Ministry to investigate the shooting incident.

    Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, the Member of Parliament for the area, has said some measures are being taken to secure justice for persons who suffered the brutalities.

    He said the violence is regrettable and must not recur.

    The MP has stated that he is aware that police investigations into the matter have been concluded and that there would be further action on the outcome soon.

  • A-G advises gov’t to compensate Ejura shooting injured victims

    With family members of some injured persons in the Ejura shooting incidents agitating for compensation, it has emerged that the Attorney-General (AG) gave a piece of legal advice in July this year for compensation to be paid.

    In a letter cited by the Daily Graphic, the A-G, Godfred Yeboah Dame, advised the government to compensate three injured victims of the incident with about GH¢1.28 million.

    The three injured persons captured in the A-G’s advice for compensation are Louis Ayipka, 30; Nazif Nuhu, 20, and Awal Mesbawu, 16.

    Per the letter, the A-G advised that Ayikpa should be compensated with GH¢347,953, Nuhu should get GH¢192,425, and Mesbawu should be given GH¢678,519.

    Apart from the compensation, the A-G also advised the government to implement a recommendation by a Medical Board for the victims to be given medical and psychosocial care.

    The letter, dated July 12, this year was addressed to the Minister of Interior, Ambrose Dery.

    Family agitates

    Last Wednesday, the family of the three injured persons called on the government to pay them compensation as recommended by the Justice Koomson’s Committee.

    At a press conference in Accra, the family further urged the A-G to expedite action on the prosecution of those suspected to have killed Yussif and Suraj.

    According to the family, after submitting all the required medical documents needed to effect the payment, they had so far not received any acknowledgement indicating receipt of the documents.

    Report

    On June 29, last year, Abdul Nasir Yussif and Murtala Suraj Mohammed died from gunshots from joint police and military team during activities related to the burial of a social activist in the area, Ibrahim Muhammed, popularly known as Kaaka.

    Three other persons — Ayikpa, Nuhu and Mesbawu — got injured in the incident.

    A committee set up by the Minister for the Interior to investigate the matter submitted its report in September last year.

    The committee, chaired by a Justice of the Court of Appeal, Justice Kingsley Koomson, in its report, recommended that the families of the two young men who lost their lives in the shooting incident must be compensated.

    It further recommended that the three injured persons must also be compensated.

    While the government had since compensated the families of the two young men who lost their lives in the shooting incident, the injured persons are yet to be compensated.

    On what went into arriving at the compensation for each of the three persons, the A-G relied on certain factors used to award compensation in some case law.

    These were permanent physical disability or impairment, disruption of education, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, ongoing medical care needs, loss of future earnings, reimbursement of the cost of medical treatments, increase in living expenses among others. The A-G also factored in the national minimum wage and transportation cost, among other factors.

    Regarding the medical and psychosocial care, the A-G advised that all three should be given psychosocial support as recommended by the medical board.

    “In the case of Awal Mesbawu, the appropriate functional prosthesis should be provided to him to assist in mobilisation as recommended by the medical board,” the A-G said.

  • Kaaka’s family unhappy with delays in murder trial

    The family of late social activist, Ibrahim Muhammed, popularly known as Kaaka, says it fears justice will not be served in his murder trial after the case has seen several adjournments for over a year.

    Kaaka died at Ejura in the Ashanti region in June 2021 after he was allegedly attacked in front of his house.

    Three persons were arrested and remanded for months over the incident, but were later granted bail.

    The Asokwa District court that has been hearing the matter for months has been waiting for advice from the office of the Attorney General for committal processes to begin at the high court.

    During the court’s proceedings today, all the accused persons were present, but the prosecutor was absent because the advice from the Attorney General was not ready.

    The case has thus been adjourned to 8th November 2022.

    The spokesperson of Kaaka’s family, Nafiu Mohammed, told Citi News they are disappointed with how the case is being handled.

    “It’s been a sad day, we were in court today and all the accused persons were in court but for the fifth time. The prosecutor was not in court and the case had to be adjourned to the 8th of November. The Presiding Judge said, no advice has been received yet from the Attorney General, so no committal process will start. This is really disturbing and as a family, it is in a way draining our pocket. If this continues, it is a pungent smell of injustice, so the case must be called, so we find the way forward.”

    Kaaka died on 28th June 2021 after he was attacked in front of his house at Ejura on 26th June 2021.

    Following the death, Fuseni Alhassan and Ibrahim Issaka were arrested, and Iddi Mohammed [Kaaka’s brother] was subsequently arrested as well.

    His death and subsequent protests later culminated in a commission of inquiry that took testimonies from about 20 witnesses including journalists, police, soldiers, political appointees, and some victims.

    The committee made up of Justice George Kingsley Koomson as the Chairman; a security analyst, Dr. Vladimir Antwi-Danso, and the Executive Director of Penplusbytes, Juliet Adiema Amoah, presented its findings to the Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery on Tuesday, July 27, 2021.

    The committee in its ten recommendations recommended compensation for affected families and persons.

    It also recommended the transfer of the Police commander of Ejura and the removal of the MCE of the area.

    Ibrahim Muhammed’s family had earlier accused the police of delaying investigations, but the police have refuted these accusations.

    The police instead cited delays from the Attorney General’s office.

    Source:citinewsroom.com

  • SIM registration: Over 1 million defaulting network subscribers to be blocked in the next 72 hours

    More than one million network subscribers will have their unregistered SIM cards deactivated after September 30, 2022, as they are without a Ghana card, the
    sole identification document for the ongoing SIM registration exercise.

    The Independent Ghana has arrived at this conclusion following careful analysis of statements by relevant stakeholders in the communication sector who are to
    ensure the smooth running of the SIM registration exercise.

    The institutions involved in this analysis are the National Identification Authority (NIA), the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, and the National Communications Authority (NCA).

    The NIA is responsible for the issuance of the Ghana card and, according to the authority, it will not be able to issue all the Ghana cards needed to enable network subscribers to register their SIM cards.

    On September 9, 2022, the Director of Corporate Affairs at the NIA, Dr Abudu Abdul Ganiyu,  told JoyNews that NIA has issued 15,859,251 Ghana cards and is yet to print 528,360 cards, as well as issue 763,877 cards. In total, 1,292,237 Ghana cards are yet to be received.

    A week after his comment, the Executive Secretary of the Authority, Professor Kenneth Agyeman Attafuah, while addressing the press on the provision of Ghana cards ahead of the September 30th deadline, said “we cannot do that.” “There is no way that the NIA can register those people. It is technically, physically impossible. We had said way back in March that it was impossible. I have said it is like expecting a maiden to make a baby every three months,” he said.

    Professor Kenneth Agyeman Attafuah explained that the NIA will not be able to provide all eligible Ghanaians with their Ghana cards owing to a lack of officers at its registration centres. “Today, there is only one office in a district. At the 200 registration centres, you may have about 16 NIA officials serving the people.

    Today, there is only one office per district, and there are four people in that district office. The maximum is five at the regional offices. We augment the staff
    numbers with national service personnel,” he said.

    Weeks before the NIA made this revelation, the Ministry of Communications and Digitalization for the second time extended the SIM card registration
    deadline from July 31 to September 30.

    The exercise was extended because of challenges involved in the issuance of the Ghana card, Communications Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful admitted on July
    31, 2022, in a press briefing. Days after the extension, it emerged that the number of people who trooped to the registration centres to register their SIM cards
    had plummeted.

    According to figures from the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, the number of subscribers re-registering their SIM cards fell to 5,861 on August 19, 2022, from about 235,000 recorded on July 31, 2022, when the extension was announced. This represented a 98% decline. The data also showed that by August 1, 2022, the number of registrations fell to 62,715, compared with the 235,460 recorded on July 28, 2022.

    The trend continued until it dropped further to 5,861 by August 19th, 2022. Despite the decline in numbers and the NIA’s inability to provide all Ghana Cards, the NCA and the Communications Ministry have made no move to extend the registration deadline to ensure the affected Ghanaians are not disadvantaged.

    Even though the NCA has been dragged to court, the Authority is yet to rescind its decision and provide the NIA more time to provide citizens with their Ghana
    cards. Galamsey: 12 excavators seized; one arrested in Ashanti region Effects of blocked SIM cards on the economy should the NCA block SIM cards after September 30, as stated earlier, the government risks losing some of the taxes it generates from citizens who make use of voice and data services.

    A communication service tax of 5% is levied on charges payable by both individual and corporate users of electronic communication services (ECS) provided by
    service providers other than private electronic communication services.

    Government will lose a large sum of money it would have generated from network service providers through the over one million network subscribers who have not registered their SIM cards. Also, network service providers will lose subscribers, thereby reducing their revenue. The assertion is that a number of Ghanaians yet to retrieve their Ghana cards engage in mobile money transactions. Government is able to generate revenue through its electronic transaction levy (e-levy) of 1.5% on mobile money transactions above the GHS100 threshold.

    The revenue generated from this tax will decline as over one million network subscribers will be without an active SIM card.

     

  • Bawku curfew will only be lifted after peace is fully restored – Interior Minister

    Interior Minister Ambrose Dery has advised residents in Bawku, in the Upper East Region, to aim at embracing peace in order for the curfew imposed on them by the government to be raised.

    According to him, the existing state of lawlessness and disorder in the region is detrimental to the development of the area and the country as a whole.
    “If you give us peace, we will see how we will review the curfew in the next few weeks. But if you tell us the only thing you know is war, we will increase it. “I am not sure, that is what you want,” he said.

    The Interior Minister’s remarks follow appeals for the government to lift the aged curfew that has been imposed on the community.

    On Wednesday, November 24, 2021, the Interior Ministry imposed a 14-hour curfew on the Bawku Municipality, where inhabitants remained indoors from 4:00pm to 6:00am.

    Also, individuals found to be in possession of a weapon or ammunition within the municipality were to be detained and prosecuted. However, on Monday, December 27, 2021, the township witnessed the loss of lives and the destruction of property as a result of gunshots in the area. In January this year, four people
    were shot dead, and eight others sustained injuries during renewed clashes between Kusasis and Mamprusis in Bawku.

    This went on despite a curfew imposed by the Interior Ministry. Due to the insurgence, the Minister for the Interior by Executive Instrument renewed the
    curfew hours imposed on Bawku Municipality and its environs from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am, which took effect Monday, September 26, 2022.

     

  • Bawku curfew will only be lifted after restoration of total peace – Interior Minister

    Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery says government will only lift the curfew in Bawku if there is total peace and security.

    Mr. Dery says the current breakdown of law and order in the area affects development.

    Ambrose Dery’s comment comes after calls for government to lift the age-old curfew necessitated by conflicts in the area.

    But the Minister says all other bans will be lifted if peace is restored.

    “If you give us peace, we will see how we will review the curfew in the next few weeks, but if you tell us the only thing you know is war, we will increase it. [I am not sure that is what you want]”, he said.

    Last week, the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC) announced the enforcement of additional security measures in Bawku.

    The revised security actions are to stem the renewed fighting in the community.

    After its emergency meeting, REGSEC resolved on the following measures:

    1. The Police, Ghana Immigration Service and the Military are allowed to use official motorbikes between 6:00am to 6:00pm.
    2. Temporary ban on ‘yellow, yellow’ operations until further notice.
    3. Curfew hours to cover Nayoka, Kpalgu and Manga.

    “Please ensure strict compliance”, a statement from the Office of the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council said.

    The decision came after at least three persons were reportedly shot by unknown persons.

    A transformer belonging to the Northern Electricity Development Company was also destroyed during the shooting incident.

    Residents said the incident left them in fear.

  • Wa killings: He had eaten some body parts of his victims – Dr Bonaa

    The main suspect in the recent killings in Wa, Kankani Adongo,  is said to have cannibalistic tendencies.

     

    Dr. Adam Bonaa, a security and safety analyst, believes he has information to support this claim and that the suspect may have consumed some of his victims’ body parts.

     

    “My intelligence suggests the suspect was behaving in a cannibalistic way. When he was arrested, it was found out that he had eaten some body parts of the people he allegedly killed. This is a very disturbing development if you ask me,” Dr Bonaa is quoted in a report by kasapafmonline.com.

     

    The analyst alluded that such tendencies by the suspect may result from mental health issues.

     

    The arrest of Adongo Kankani comes on the back of a recent pattern of security officers of some schools disappearing overnight.

     

    Lead suspect arrested after multiple incidents of murder in Wa

    Probe into recent serial killings in the Wa Municipality of the Upper West Region appears to have received a major boost after Police apprehended a prime suspect on Monday, September 19.

     

    The arrest of Kankani Adongo was said to have taken place through the collaboration of the locals and the Police at Bamahu, a community in the municipality.

     

    The locals who reportedly spotted the suspect apprehended him and then took him to the palace of the Paramount Chief of the Wala Traditional Area who in turn informed the Police about the arrest of the suspect.

     

    Head of the Public Affairs unit of the Regional Police Command, Chief Inspector Gideon Ohene Boateng in a statement on Monday said: “The Police have arrested one person believed to be the prime suspect behind the Wa murder case.

     

    “Suspect Kankani Adongo was arrested on 19th September 2022 at Bamahu, a suburb of Wa after extensive collaboration between the Police and community search parties.

    “Suspect is in custody and will be arraigned before the court to face justice,” the statement read in part.

     

    Adongo was said to have been found with some clothes belonging to some of the missing persons in his possession.

    The Police had a hectic time in their attempt to take the suspect to the Police station due to the resistance of the crowd that had amassed outside the palace who wanted him handed over for instant justice.

    Some eyewitnesses said they were subjected to some beatings at the hands of the Police in order to be able to whisk the suspect away, a move they were also trying to thwart.

     

    Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare who stormed the region today to address the Press, reiterated the Police’s commitment to safeguarding the peace of the area adding that, the investigations were being carried out alongside other security agencies.

     

    “We want to assure you that we’ll do all that we can to ensure that Wa Municipality and its environs is peaceful for all of you. The Police as the lead internal security agency is committed, very committed to working with the other security agencies that we’re already working with on the ground because the REGSEC includes all the security agencies on the ground and they’re the people who have been working on it until we also brought people from outside to come and support them. So all the security agencies are already part of the work we are doing.”

     

    Hon. Ambrose Dery, the Interior Minister and Member of Parliament for Nandom, while assuring that the security agencies were in control of the situation admonished the locals to limit their contribution to the investigations by providing relevant information to the Police rather than seeking to usurp the authority of the officers.

     

    “The security agencies, the Ghana Police is in control of the situation. They, led by the IGP will investigate whatever has happened in the past and all. What I’m assuring the Wa Naa is that the security agencies so far are up to the task and we believe we’ll support them to do their work. It’s in their domain of investigating crime.

     

    “But I did make it clear that in all these matters, the policy is for the rule of law to be enforced. If you have any information, you surrender it and give it to the security agencies to use.

    “You do not resort to self-help or you usurp the role of the security agencies. That we have asked the Chief to thank the community for their passion to help, and for the information that they have been giving and continue to give.

    “They would leave the real work to the Police. Only give them the information, don’t attack anybody, because if you attack anybody, you yourself will be a subject of investigations,” the minister warned.

  • Summon Dery, others over Aisha Huang brouhaha – CDD-Ghana to Akufo-Addo

    The Center for Democratic Development (CDD) Ghana, has said that the Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery, as well as other pertinent state authorities need to be questioned over the issue involving galamsey bigwig, Aisha Huang.

    In an interview with Starr News, Senior Programs Manager for CDD-Ghana, Paul Yaw Abrampah, said the case’s twists and turns raise the question of whether the president receives routine security briefings.

    “The President is our leader, and he makes appointments and swears in all executive positions in the country, and he is aware of people’s duties. The president can call his Minister in charge of the Interior or National Security and get facts on these issues easily.

    “The National Security Coordinator, the National Security Minister, the Interior Minister, and the Ghana Immigration Service is under the Ministry of Interior. So this should not be an issue that the president should go on air and say he is confused as to what actually happened. Are we saying that the president is not getting detailed security briefings in the country,” Mr. Abrampah quizzed.

    He added that: “Now that it has become a big issue that you are supporting the Attorney General to take up the issue, you should definitely be getting a briefing on it. So I expect the president to summon the Interior Minister under whose jurisdiction issues of migration falls to give a full fact and briefing to him.”

    Mr. Abrampah added that given the current legal status of the matter, it might be an error for the president to fire any of his appointees in connection with the Aisha Huang scandal.

    “Definitely, with the judicial service, if the case should travel the length of the law. They will call for witnesses and call for facts of the case. That is where we are going to get the full facts of the case.

    “I got a hint that the Minority caucus is planning to summon people to come and give them facts or wanting to establish an independent investigation into the issue. All of these will complement the process to unravel the actual truth in the case. If it happens that there were compromises on the way, then the law must take its course,” the Programs Manager added.

     

  • Curfew in Bawku reviewed effective September 5

    The curfew imposed in Bawku and its surroundings to reduce insecurity in the municipality has been reviewed by the Interior Ministry, Ambrose Dery.

    In a statement, the Ministry said that based on the advice of the Upper East Regional Council, the review begins today, Monday, September 5, 2022.

    The present curfew time of 8:00pm has been changed to 6:00am, 6:00pm, and 6:00am.

    “The review of the curfew has been as a result of threat to security in the communities concerned”, the statement added.

    The administration is also urging local citizens and youth to put their energy toward constructive endeavors rather than violence, which is endangering the peace.

    The release further announced that, “there is a total ban on all persons in the aforementioned communities and its environs from carrying arms, ammunition or any offensive weapon and any person found with any arms or ammunition will be arrested and prosecuted.”

    Bawku is a hotspot for clashes between residents of various ethnic groups.

    The government has on several occasions imposed a curfew on the town to calm tensions and maintain law and order.

     

  • Disregard allegations of Boko Haram in Ghana ; we are safe – Interior Minister

    Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery, has urged Ghanaians to ignore report circulating on social media that terrorist and jihadist groups, including Boko Haram, has reached the shores of Ghana.

    According to the minister, no part of the country has been attacked by a terrorist organisation as purported in the viral video on social media.

    Dery added that although neighbouring countries have been attacked, the security apparatus in Ghana are on top of their jobs and are leaving no stone unturned in their effort to ensure that the country does not see any terrorist attacks.

    “We live in a region which is volatile and prone to extremist activities. Our neighbours have been attacked variously. But let me make it clear that those footages that are on video and on platforms that extremists have attacked any part of Ghana are false. They are false and should be disregarded,” the minister said in a video shared by Ghana Broadcasting Corporation on social media.

    Recently, there have been allegations that Boko Haram has attacked communities in the Northern Regional capital, Tamale.

    The viral video showed people dressed in military apparel alleged to be personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces with all kinds of military equipment, including vehicles and a helicopter, patrolling an area that was said to have been attacked by terrorists in Tamale.

    Watch the minister speaking at the event in the video below:

    Source:ghanaweb.com

  • Founders’ Day: August 4 declared public holiday

    Government has declared Thursday, August 4, 2022 as a statutory holiday, in commemoration of Founders’ Day.

    A statement issued by the Minister of Interior, Ambrose Dery, said; “The general public is hereby informed that Thursday, August 4, 2022 which marks Founders’ Day is a Statutory Public Holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country.”

    Founders’ Day is a national public holiday marked annually to commemorate the contributions of all the people, notably the “Big Six” who led the struggle for Ghana’s independence.

    Previously, it was celebrated on September 21 as Founder’s Day, but was changed by President Akufo-Addo during his first term of office, to Founders’ Day on August 4.

    Founder’s Day is also a day on which the Ghanaians take the opportunity to reflect the sacrifices of their fore-bearers who fought for Ghana’s independence.

    Ghanaians also observe Founders’ Day to include activities that will encourage the  people within the country and in the diaspora to accept Ghana as their homeland.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Government declares 3rd and 7th January 2022 as public holidays

    The government through the Ministry of Interior has declared Monday, January 3, 2022, and Friday, January 7, 2022, as public holidays.

    In two separate press releases signed by the Minister for Interior, Ambrose Dery, the ministry said the holiday on Monday is in view of the fact that January 1, which is a statutory public holiday marking the New Year, 2022, falls on a Saturday, the holiday will thus be observed on Monday across the country.

    On the other hand, the ministry also said the holiday on Friday, the 7th, is in commemoration of a statutory Constitution Day public holiday. 

    “The general public is hereby informed that Friday, 7th January 2022, which marks Constitution Day, is a Statutory Public Holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country,” the second release dated Thursday, December 30, 2021, stated.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Control illicit trade of small arms in Ghana – Board of NCSALW told

    Ambrose Dery, the Minister of Interior, has charged the Board of the Small Arms Commission, to put in robust measures to effectively control the illicit trade, manufacture, and flow of small arms and light weapons into the country.

    That, he said called for enhanced and sustainable preventive approaches and raising the alertness and the capacities of the security agencies, especially at entry points of the country.

    The Minister gave the advice at the inauguration of a 15-member Board of National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCSALW) in Accra.

    He said though Ghana was widely seen as a beacon of peace and a shining example of democracy and good governance in the West African Region, chieftaincy and land disputes, inciteful language in the media, and the security situation in neighbouring countries remained challenges to the country’s internal security.

    Small Arms and Light Weapons, the Minister, stated were major threats to the peace and must be addressed.

    He said the country was also witnessing new forms of security threats characterised by terrorism, insurgency, maritime insecurity, cybercrimes, rising levels of violent extremism, and transnational organized crimes, which must also be watched.

    Those threats, he said had devastating effects on internal security and civilian populations, because they relied heavily on small arms and light weapons as major tools for executing evil acts.

    The United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs revealed that about 875 million Small Arms and Light Weapons are currently in circulation globally.

    Studies have also shown that a lot of Small Arms and Light Weapons move from the licit to the illicit market through weak control and monitoring mechanisms.

    He said extremist groups such as Boko Haram, Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, Ansar Dine, Mozambique- ISIS had used idle youth and small arms and light weapons to hit soft targets in neighbouring countries Mali, Nigeria, and recently Burkina Faso.

    The Minister said the fight against the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons was a key priority for Government and that stopping the menace would prevent conflict, enhance internal security, prevent violent crimes and promote sustainable development.

    In 2020 the Ministry facilitated and supported the Commission to set up offices in five regions – Ashanti, Northern, Upper East, Upper West and Western Regions and at Aflao Border Post.

    Prof Paul Frimpong Manso, the Board Chairman of the Commission, thanked Government for the opportunity and pledged the commitment of members of the Board to guide the Commission to make great strides in achieving its mandate.

    The Board members are: Mr Jones Borteye Applerh from the Commission; Mr Gabriel Nsoh Ade Agana and J.O Sylvester Nkrumah, presidential nominees; Colonel Foster Ohene Okae-Yeboah and Colonel Gaspard D.K.Asare of the Ghana Armed Forces, COP Ken Yeboah and COP Christian Tetteh Yohunu from the Ghana Police Service.

    The rest are: Mr Emmanuel Owus-Boakye, Ghana Revenue Authority; Mr Laud Ofori Afrifa, Ghana Immigration Service; Mrs Mavis Esi Kusorgbor, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration; Mr Solomon Tetteh Mensah, Ministry of Interior; Mrs Sefakor Batse, Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice and Mrs Baffour Dokyi Amoa, Civil Society organization.

    Source: GNA

  • Road crashes national security issue for Government – Dery

    Interior Minister Ambrose Dery has described road crashes as a ”big national security issue” for the government.

    He said as part of efforts to manage and reduce road crashes in the country, the President has formed an inter-ministerial committee to address the issue.

    The committee he said involves ministers from the Communication and Digitization, Roads and Highway, Transport, Finance, and the Information to address the road crashes.

    He said they have taken the issue seriously and will use digitization to address the situation.

    He was speaking to the media on the sidelines of the opening of the National Police Command Conference at the Royal Senchi Resort.

    Mr. Dey said there some areas where the roads are bad and notorious to enhance patrols hence the committee will find out what it is and that is ”why it is a multi-sectoral and multi ministerial matter”.

    The Minister said the government will provide the Police with the technology to capture road offenders and punish them.

    He suggested motor riders are the most undisciplined offenders and soon the Police will come after them.

    He said commercial motor services are not lawful and sometimes, the riders think they are above the law, he added.

    Road crashes in the first quarter of 2021 he lamented has taken the lives of 771 persons, a situation that requires solutions to deal with the problem.

    The National Police Command Conference is under the theme ”The Role of Leadership in Preventing Violent Crimes and Promoting Community Safety”.

    He said the Nana Addo led administration is always ready to support the Police and other security agencies with logistics in the fight against crime.

    He advised the Police to be proactive and professional in line with modern policing in response to the complex nature of criminal activities.

    The National Police Command Conference (NAPOCC) is a meeting of senior members of the Police Service.

    These are members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), Regional Police Commanders and selected Directors of the National Police Headquarters Formation.

    Source: rainbowradioonline.com

  • MPs to get police bodyguards

    Mr Ambrose Dery, the Minister of the Interior, has announced the deployment of additional 200 police personnel to the Parliamentary Protection Unit to serve as personal bodyguards to Members of Parliament (MPs).

    He said the 200 officers would be distributed to MPs who did not have any form of police protection.

    Mr Dery announced the intended protection of MPs at a joint press briefing in Parliament by Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu and Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu after the Interior Minister had a closed-door meeting with the House.

    The Speaker, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, had invited the Minister to brief members on Tuesday on the murder of Ekow Quansah Hayford, MP for Mfantseman, and measures taken to provide security for MPs.

    The MP was reportedly killed by unknown assailants on the Abeadze DominaseAbeadze DuadziMankessim road in the Central Region, on his way back from a campaign trip in the early hours of Friday, October, 2020.

    Mr Dery indicated that he had also contacted the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to carry through a directive from President Nana Akufo-Addo to look out for the murderers.

    “The approval to deploy the personnel should be immediate,” Mr Dery stressed.

    He said during the closed-door interaction it was proposed that between now and the end of the year an extra 200 police personnel would have to be added to the Parliamentary Protection Unit to attain the status of a Divisional Command that would take care of MPs as bodyguards.

    “What we have proposed is that between now and at the end of the year, we are going to provide additional 200 police personnel to be part of the Parliamentary Protection Unit, making it, therefore, attain the status of a Divisional Command that will take care of Members of Parliament as bodyguards,” Mr Derry said.

    However: “Ideally we need to have about 800 additional police so that MPs could get police at home, day and night as done for judges and Ministers of State.”

    Mr Dery said a special team from the Homicide Unit of the Ghana Police Service was deployed to the Central Region, and the crime scene finger prints had been taken but no arrests yet.

    He explained that providing security for MPs had always been the principle since 1992, and the protection for MPs was part of the general national security architecture, which was being taken care of by a number of strategies put in place.

    “The truth on the ground is that the extent of those strategies has been limited,” Mr Dery said.

    Source: GNA

  • Government renews curfew on Bunkpurugu

    The curfew hours imposed on the Bunkpurugu township and its environs in the North East Region has been renewed from 8:00 pm to 6:00 am.

    This is according to a statement signed by the Minister for Interior, Ambrose Dery.

    The Minister urged the “chiefs, opinion leaders, youth and people of the area to exercise restraint in the face of the challenges confronting them to use non-violent means to channel their energies into ensuring peace in the area.”

    The government, aside from the curfew, has also imposed a ban on all persons in the township “from carrying arms, ammunition or any offensive weapons”.

    Anyone found culpable of this will be arrested and prosecuted, according to the statement.

    Curfew in Bole lifted

    Many towns in some regions of Ghana are under curfew, most of whom are due to violent activities between the people.

    Among a few are Alavanyo and Nkonya in the Oti Region, Bimbilla in the Northern Region, and Japekrom in the Bono Region.

    In January 2020, the Interior Ministry lifted the curfew that had been on the Bole township and its environs in the Savannah Region since 2018.

    The curfew was imposed due to tensions in the Bole traditional area in 2017 following fears of violence after the death of the Paramount Chief, Awuladese Pontomprong Mahama (II) in May.

    According to a statement signed by the sector Minister, Ambrose Dery, this move was made based on the advice of the Savannah Regional Security Council (REGSEC) and the “genuine desire of the Chiefs and people of the area to sustain the peace” and improve the security situation in the area.

     

    Source: citinewsroom 

  • April 10, 13 declared statutory holidays

    The Ministry of the Interior has declared Friday, April 10 and Monday, April 13, 2020 as statutory public holidays.

    The General Public is hereby reminded that Friday, 10th April, 2020 and Monday, 13th April, 2020 which mark Good Friday and Easter Monday respectively, are Statutory Public Holidays and should be observed as such throughout the country.

    A statement signed by Mr Ambrose Dery, the Sector Minister and copied to Peacefmonline.com today, Monday, said the days are marked Easter Good Friday and Easter Monday respectively and are statutory public holidays and should be observed as such throughout the country.

    Source: peacefmonline.com

  • Bole curfew to be lifted soon – Ambrose Dery

    The Minister for Interior Ambrose Dery has paid a one-day working visit to the newly created Savannah Region.

    Mr Dery first visited the Savannah Regional Coordinating Council where he met with the Minister in-charge of the region Salifu Adam Braimah who led the minister and his team to meet with the security services in the region including the Savannah Regional Police Command, Savannah Regional Fire Command and the Regional Immigration Service Command.

    The Interior Minister inspected separate guard of honours mounted by the security and also interacted with the personnel of the security services.

    Kidnapping not new in Ghana Ambrose Dery

    He used the opportunity to address several issues raised by the security personnel including accommodation, promotions, lack of vehicles to help in their operations in the region.

    The Minister and entourage later paid a courtesy call on the overlord of the Gonja traditional area, Yagbonwura Borasa Tuntumba at the Jakpa Palace in Damongo.

    At the Jakpa Palace, Yagbonwura Boresa welcomed the minister and his entourage into the Savannah Region and used the opportunity to make several appeals to the him regarding security issues in the region.

    Yagbonwura Borasa told the Minister that he is worried about the rampant killings going on in the region citing Bole area where recently some persons were shot with one of the victims still receiving treatment in the hospital.

    He praised the Police Service in the region for reducing the rate of armed robbery which has become another major problem in the region.

    Yagbonwura Tuntumba Boresa spoke about the recent one on the Bole-Tinga road and appealed for more Police Posts in the area and more police officers to beef up the security situation in the Region.

    He further spoke about the various chieftaincy conflicts in the Savannah Region mentioning that of Bole, Damongo and so on and as well called for a collaboration between his committee of eminent chiefs charged to resolve the chieftaincy issues in the region and the national security outfit to resource the committee find lasting solutions to the chieftaincy issues.

    Civilians own guns, so how is arming MTTD cops a threat? Ambrose Dery

    Mr Dery in response to the request put forward by the Yagbonwura thanked him for his role in finding lasting solution to the Dagbon chieftaincy issues.

    He also reminded the Yagbonwura that he was brought up in Damongo and attended his school in Damongo and will, therefore, make sure the request by Yagbonwura to resource the Security Services in the region is attended to immediately.

    He applauded the Yagbonwura for forming the committee of eminent chiefs to solve the issues in Gonjaland and promised to consult the national security minister to help the committee.

    Mr Dery also sought permission from the Yagbonwura to lift the curfew in Bole since the REGSEC is advising him to do that.

    Yagbonwura Tuntumba Boresa in response to the minister about the Bole curfew suggested to the Minister to give him time to consult his council before getting back to him through the Savannah Regional minister.

    Source: classfmonline.com

  • Kidnapping not new in Ghana Ambrose Dery

    The Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery has dismissed claims that the recent spate of kidnappings is new to Ghana.

    Defending his assertion, Mr Dery said the country has recorded some 504 kidnapping cases since 2011.

    The GNA reports that the Minister was addressing Regional, Divisional and District Crime Officers at the opening of a two-day annual conference when he made the remarks.

    Canadian kidnapping: Seidu Mba, 3 others discharged; 4 Nigerians charged

    “I hear people trying to make kidnapping a new phenomenon. It is not new. Ghana for the past eight years had recorded 504 kidnapping cases between 2011 and 2019,” he noted.

    Mr Dery said in 2013, there were 77 reported cases, in 2014, 76 cases and in 2018, 58. He said 2019 has so far recorded 47 cases but added that effective investigations revealed 21 of the cases in 2019 were false, leaving the tally at 26.

    He then commended the police CID for helping reduce kidnapping cases in the country.

    What else did he say?

    Speaking on the theme “Addressing the challenges of contemporary investigations for effective prosecution; the role of investigators,” Dry said the CID had to be encouraged for the strides made in its improved performance.

    He urged the officers to come up with a road map for criminal investigations and their role as effective crime officers.

    Police must be trained to handle kidnapping cases better Analyst

    He admitted the onus lay was on the government to equip them with the requisite knowledge and skills as well as modern communication tools to enhance their work.

    Government, he said, is determined to retool the entire Police Service to enhance their professionalism and improved service delivery.

    He said the government was also determined to create a responsive, effective and accountable police service that would work to expectations of all stakeholders.

    “Be reminded of your oath to protect and defend the good people of Ghana and all residents in the country, your action should not dampen the spirit of the citizens who see you as their shield against criminals,” he advised.

    He urged them not to relent on their responsibilities irrespective of the challenges and be ready to tackle new trends of crimes, head-on as there would be refresher courses to help handle them.

    Source: Myjoyonline.com

  • Disaster fund established – Ambrose Dery

    The Minister of the Interior, Ambrose Dery, yesterday announced in Parliament that a National Disaster Management Fund to deal with management of disasters in the country had been established since 2017.

    He said the establishment of the fund was in line with the new National Disaster Management Act, 2016 (Act 927).

    Read: Poor drainage responsible for Aburi landslide NADMO

    He made the announcement in an answer to a question by the ranking member of the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament and National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Builsa North, James Agalga, who wanted to find out when such a fund would be established.

    The minister explained that monies that would accrue in the fund would come from appropriations by Parliament; three per cent of the share of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) to each district subject to a formula approved by the House in accordance with Article 252 of the Constitution, advances from the Contingency Fund referred to in Article 177 of the Constitution, funds from investments by the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), grants and donations and other voluntary contributions from individuals or corporate institutions.

    Read: Development on Aburi mountains: Disaster in waiting Aburihene

    According to the minister, a governing council has been constituted to manage the fund adding that already the council has approved the opening of an account in accordance with section 41(2) of the Act 927 with the then UNIBANK, now Consolidated Bank of Ghana (CBG), to receive monies coming into the fund.

    The minister, however, could not disclose the exact amount that the fund had so far accrued except to say that the three per cent of the Common Fund earmarked for the fund had been deposited.

    Meanwhile the Minority Leader, Haruna Iddrisu, has asked Parliament to haul the Minister of Works and Housing, Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources and Minister of Roads and Highways before it to explain measures they are putting in place to prevent flooding.

     

    Source: dailyguidenetwork.com

  • Prioritise safety of Ghanaians – Interior Minister to security captains

    The Minister for the Interior, Honourable Ambrose Dery has called on Security and Departmental Heads of all agencies to ensure Ghanaians feel safe by maintaining high standards of discipline, decorum and professionalism when enforcing law and order.

    He said the President of the Republic is focused and committed to ensuring high standards of security, therefore Security agencies must be up to the task and ensure the safety of the citizenry is prioritized.

    “The President will not compromise on any shortfalls and mishaps from you,” he asserted.

    The Minister made this statement when he addressed the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) yesterday in Tamale to begin a 4-day working visit to Agencies and Services under his Ministry in the Northern and Upper East Regions.

    Hon. Ambrose Dery also added that, “… we will not disappoint you, we will work to sustain the peace and security being enjoyed by the people of this Region,” he assured.

    Read:Help maintain democracy in Ghana Ambrose Dery to Ghanaians

    He admonished the security agencies to refrain from taking sides in chieftaincy and land disputes since that is not their purview but instead, ensure such situations do not affect the peace and serenity on the area.

    “Security agencies must know their limits, handling of chieftaincy and land issues are not in our purview. Our mandate is to ensure that in the unfortunate situation that such conflicts arise, it does not affect the peace and security of the country,” the Minister stressed.

    The objective of the tour is for him to gather firsthand information on issues on the grounds relating to their operations and challenges so as to inform policy directions.

    It is also to ascertain if policies initiated by government are being implemented at the grassroots, and have physical interactions with Officers and Men.

    The Minister affirmed that the President, His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwah Akufo-Addo has called for all appointees to hit the ground running tirelessly since his assumption by getting in touch with professionals and people at the grassroots for an effective collaboration and cooperation between government and those on the ground.

    Read:Civilians own guns, so how is arming MTTD cops a threat? Ambrose Dery

    The Interior Minister commended the Chairman for Regional Security Council(REGSEC) who is also the Northern Regional Minister, Hon. Salifu Sa-eed on the good work done in the metropolis by ensuring peace, harmony and providing amicable resolutions of all pocket conflicts reported in the area.

    As part of the tour, the Minister interacted with Officers and Men of the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Prisons Service, Ghana Fire Service, Ghana Immigration Service, the Gaming Commission, National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), the Narcotics Board (NACOB) and the Regional Peace Council.

    The Minister would also visit some selected borders, approved and unapproved routes in the Upper East Region as part of his working tour to ascertain and observe the nature of the frontiers as far as security threats and safety of Ghanaians are concerned.

    Accompanying the Minister on the tour is the Deputy Interior Minister, the Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service and the Special Adviser to the Interior Minister.

    Source: Ghana Immigration Service