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Tag: Madina

  • Why keep somebody at 60 office when we have the youth? – Former Madina MP quizzes

    Why keep somebody at 60 office when we have the youth? – Former Madina MP quizzes

    Alhaji Amadu Sorogho, a former Member of Parliament for Madina, has questioned why public servants are allowed to remain in office beyond the age of 60 when younger professionals are available to take over.

    Sorogho, who spoke on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Wednesday, April 9, argued that the extension of post-retirement contracts in the public sector leads to political manipulation and undermines the efficiency of public institutions.

    He highlighted that this system enables retirees to stay in power well past the statutory retirement age, often resulting in their loyalty to political appointees who secure their contract renewals. Sorogho pointed out that such appointees, feeling indebted to those who granted them extensions, can become politically compromised, which affects their decision-making.

    “Because I gave him the extension, he owes his existence to you, and so whatever I want you to do, you do it. And most of the time, it becomes political. Chief Director, Head of Department, you are 60 years old, the young ones are coming up, so why should you be there at 60 years old? Another one year, and then they become teen gods,” he said.

    Sorogho emphasized that allowing retirees to remain in their positions stifles the professional development of younger generations. He argued that many retirees deliberately avoid training successors, anticipating further contract extensions.

    His remarks followed President John Dramani Mahama’s directive on April 2, 2025, which called for the immediate suspension of all post-retirement contract appointments in the public sector. The directive, issued by the Secretary to the President, Dr. Callistus Mahama, stated that no pending or future contract extensions would be entertained.

    Sorogho fully supported this policy, expressing concern about the age of some public officials who continue in their roles well into their late 60s and 70s. He criticized the practice as unnecessary, adding, “Why do we have to be keeping somebody at the age of 60, 65, and even 70 years in office, while the youth are also there?”

    Concluding, Sorogho described the continuation of post-retirement contracts as an outdated practice that should be abolished to allow for fresh ideas and innovation in public administration. He urged that the new policy be supported and implemented effectively. “I think it is a correct policy, and we must always support it and make it work,” he emphasized.

  • Road closure as GHA begins renovation works on Legon-Madina overpass tonight

    Road closure as GHA begins renovation works on Legon-Madina overpass tonight

    The Ghana Highway Authority (GHA), on behalf of the Ministry of Roads and Highways, is set to commence maintenance work on the Legon-Madina overpass, locally known as the Atomic Bridge, as part of ongoing efforts to ensure road safety and preserve infrastructure integrity.

    The 21-day renovation project, which focuses on repairing the expansion joints of the bridge, will begin at 8:00 PM on Thursday, October 3, 2024, and is expected to be completed by Tuesday, October 22, 2024.

    The coverings of the expansion joints at the Atomic Junction Flyover, which connects Adenta, Madina to Legon on the N4 highway have come off, creating discomfort and fear when driving on that part of the stretch.

    According to the GHA, the project is necessary to prevent further deterioration of the overpass, which plays a key role in facilitating traffic flow between the Legon and Madina areas. The maintenance work is anticipated to improve the safety and lifespan of the bridge, which is critical for daily commuters.

    During the renovation period, motorists will experience traffic disruptions due to the maintenace work. A traffic management system has been put in place by the bridge maintenance unit to ease congestion. Drivers are urged to adhere strictly to the new system to avoid delays and ensure smooth travel.

    Motorists are also encouraged to use alternative routes where possible, to alleviate the pressure on the Legon-Madina overpass during the maintenance period. The Ghana Highway Authority has assured the public that the measures are in place to minimize inconvenience to road users.

    In a circular, the GHA urged citizens to contact its Public Affairs Division for any inquiries or concerns related to the ongoing project, ensuring that the public remains informed throughout the maintenance process.

  • Madina ‘shadow boy’ threatens to stab ‘trotro mate’, passengers over GHC5

    Madina ‘shadow boy’ threatens to stab ‘trotro mate’, passengers over GHC5

    The life of a commercial driver’s bus conductor and citizens hung in the balance after being threatened by an individual stationed at a loading terminal, who reportedly charged drivers a fee for every passenger that boarded their vehicle on Wednesday, October 2.

    The loading assistant, commonly referred to as a “shadow boy,” attempted to stab a driver’s ‘trotro mate‘ for failing to pay him an amount of GHC 5 at Madina after a passenger boarded his vehicle.

    Before the fierce confrontation, the driver of the public transit vehicle informed the loading assistants that he would pay the money they demanded after making some trips. However, the two loading assistants refused his request and continued to press him for payment.

    The loading assistants obstructed the vehicle from moving while the bus conductor remained adamant about paying them. This led the driver to engage one of the loading assistants, resulting in a physical altercation as the loading assistant held onto the driver’s outfit. An officer with the Motor Transport and Traffic Directorate (MTTD) intervened to prevent the situation from escalating.

    Simultaneously, the second loading assistant, who was armed with a sharp object, boarded the vehicle and threatened to stab the bus conductor. Some male passengers, displeased with the encounter, defended the bus conductor but were also threatened by the loading assistant.

    Incessant panic and calls for resolution eventually persuaded the loading assistant to disembark the vehicle, but he continued to make his demands. The MTTD officer directed the driver to drive away.

    The genesis of “shadow boys” and their role in the country’s transport system remains unclear. Their presence seems to augment the efforts of a bus conductor in finding passengers, but their actions are often not appreciated by either bus conductors or passengers. Many commuters believe the role they play is redundant, as bus conductors are competent enough to draw passengers for the driver.

    In many instances, these “shadow boys,” without being tasked, call for passengers and end up quarrelling with bus conductors for failing to pay them. Many commuters have made a clarion call to stakeholders in the transportation sector, such as the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU)—a trade union representing commercial drivers, porters, guards, and commercial vehicle owners—to intervene and provide order, as well as protect the lives of passengers, drivers, and bus conductors.

  • Thieves storm Madina MP’s residence, steal laptop phone

    Thieves storm Madina MP’s residence, steal laptop phone

    Early on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, around 4 a.m., thieves broke into the office of Francis-Xavier Sosu, the Member of Parliament for Madina Constituency, in the Greater Accra Region.

    The intruders managed to steal the MP’s official laptop and mobile phone after tampering with the windows, though they could not access the inner office.

    The Madina Divisional Police Command is investigating the break-in and has taken the MP’s private security personnel in for questioning.

    The MP is unharmed and appreciates the support and solidarity from well-wishers during this time.

  • Madina Zongo Junction, Oxford Street, Lapaz among areas with highest levels of air pollution

    Madina Zongo Junction, Oxford Street, Lapaz among areas with highest levels of air pollution

    Madina Zongo Junction, Agbogbloshie, Makola, Tudu, Oxford Street, Lapaz, and Kaneshie Market are the communities in Accra with the highest levels of air pollution.

    This alarming data comes from the monitoring network of the Breathe Accra Project and was discussed during a recent roundtable at the SunLodge Hotel in Tesano, Accra.

    The discussion, part of the maiden Air Quality Awareness Week organized by the Ghana Urban Air Quality Project, focused on policy interventions to address the growing air pollution problem in Accra and other metropolitan areas of Ghana.

    The communique issued after the roundtable outlined several measures for the government and other stakeholders to tackle air pollution effectively. Here are the sector-specific recommendations from the experts:

    Waste Management Sector

    Open burning of waste is a major source of air pollution in Ghanaian cities due to limited and irregular waste collection services. The following recommendations were made to curb this practice:

    • Adopt Circular Economy: The government should adopt a model that involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling existing materials and products for as long as possible.
    • Regulate ‘Aboboyaa’ Operators: Assemblies should engage operators of tricycle waste collectors to form cooperatives for better regulation and streamlining of their activities.
    • Promote Waste Segregation: Encourage the separation of waste to enable the recycling of plastics, metals, and composting of organic waste.
    • Performance-Based Contracts: Assemblies should ensure waste collection contracts are performance-based, with annual evaluations by households and termination of non-performing companies.
    • Punitive Measures: Consider punitive measures for individuals and households engaging in open burning of waste.
    • Strategic Waste Transfer Stations: Ensure strategic placement of waste transfer stations and secure appropriate waste disposal sites.
    • Link Waste Collection to Property Rates: Integrate waste collection services with property rate payments.
    • Streamline E-Waste Operations: Regulate e-waste sector operations to stop open burning.

    Transport Sector

    Vehicular emissions significantly contribute to air pollution in Ghanaian cities due to the growing number of vehicles, many of which do not meet emission standards. Recommendations to curb vehicular emissions include:

    • Enforce Vehicle Emission Standards: Expedite the use of vehicle testing results by the DVLA and EPA to enforce emission standards.
    • Improve Public Transport: Increase and maintain clean public transport vehicles running on scheduled timetables to encourage car owners to use public transport.
    • Introduce Electric Buses: Replace intra-city fleets with electric buses.
    • Promote Active Travel: Incorporate walking and cycling lanes in road infrastructure projects.
    • Expand Traffic Management Centre: Cover all major traffic intersections and integrate them with actuated signal systems to reduce congestion and emissions from idling vehicles.
    • Consider Bicycle Share System: Promote park-and-ride bicycle systems.
    • Sensitize on Vehicle Maintenance: GRPRTU and PROTOA should educate vehicle owners on maintenance practices.
    • Introduce Remote Working: Encourage corporate organizations to implement remote working to reduce city travel.
    • Support New Vehicle Acquisition: Invest in private transport operations through vehicle leasing or hire purchase schemes to replace old, polluting vehicles.
    • Encourage Local Manufacturing: Provide a conducive environment for local vehicle manufacturing and assembly at competitive prices.
    • Reduce Dust Pollution: Water roads under construction regularly to prevent dust pollution.
    • Set Speed Limits on Untarred Roads: Reduce speed limits to prevent dust pollution in residential neighborhoods.

    Household Energy Sector

    The use of biomass fuels for cooking generates high levels of Household Air Pollution (HAP) and contributes to ambient air pollution. Recommendations to reduce HAP include:

    • Support LPG Use: Sustain the National Petroleum Authority’s Cylinder Recirculation Model to improve LPG supply and access.
    • Remove LPG Taxes: Consider removing taxes on LPG to make it affordable for low-income households.
    • Promote Improved Cook Stoves: Encourage the use of low-emitting biomass fuels like briquettes.
    • Engage CBOs and NGOs: Sensitize households on clean cooking solutions and provide tax incentives for briquette producers to make their products affordable locally.

    Industrial Sector

    Industrial emissions are a major source of air pollution due to obsolete technologies and unregulated industries. Recommendations to curb industrial emissions include:

    • Regulate Factories: Ensure factories, especially those in residential areas, adhere to emission standards.
    • Enforce Prohibition Notices: Prevent factories from operating if they fail to meet emission standards.
    • Focus on Health and Safety: Prioritize air pollution issues in health and safety policies for workers.
    • Prohibit Vehicle Spraying in Residential Areas: Vehicle spraying should only be done in designated areas with appropriate equipment.
    • Minimize Dust Pollution at Construction Sites: Regulate activities to control dust pollution.

    Markets

    Market centers are hotspots for air pollution due to various activities. Recommendations to reduce pollution include:

    • Prohibit Fires in Markets: Implement byelaws to ban setting fires at market centers.
    • Promote Clean Cooking: Encourage the use of LPG and improved cook stoves among market vendors.
    • Encourage Electric Milling Machines: Prohibit gasoline-powered milling machines in favor of electric-powered ones.
    • Advise Against Vehicle Idling: Display posters in market centers advising drivers to avoid idling their vehicles.

    These comprehensive measures, if implemented, can significantly improve air quality in Accra and other parts of Ghana, addressing the urgent need for action against air pollution.

  • I’ll appeal to ECOWAS court to force Akufo-Addo to sign the anti-witchcraft bill – Francis-Xavier Sosu

    I’ll appeal to ECOWAS court to force Akufo-Addo to sign the anti-witchcraft bill – Francis-Xavier Sosu

    A human rights lawyer and Member of Parliament (MP) representing Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu  has signaled his intention to potentially petition the ECOWAS court to compel President Akufo-Addo to sign both the witchcraft bill and the armed forces amendment bill into law.

    Expressing dissatisfaction with the reasons provided by President Akufo-Addo for withholding assent, Sosu emphasised the importance of these bills in alignment with international conventions, particularly the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

    “I will appeal to the President to assent to the witchcraft bill as well as the armed forces amendment bill. The reason the President is giving is honestly not reasonable. It is also the same with the witchcraft bill because the anti-witchcraft bill is a bill that is consistent with the UN Convention on elimination of all forms of discrimination against women.

    “In my case, I am considering an action at the ECOWAS court for a declaration that the President’s continuous withholding of assent to those two critical bills that I led amounts to a violation of both our constitution and the human rights provisions in the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights in the UN Convention,” hFrancis Xavier-Sosu told TV3.

    Highlighting the significance of the bills, especially the anti-witchcraft legislation, Sosu remarked that their enactment would reflect positively on the President’s legacy.

    Sosu, who has championed numerous private member’s bills in Parliament, criticized President Akufo-Addo for what he perceives as a lack of transparency regarding his refusal to sign the bills, clarifying that Article 108 of the Constitution does not apply to the executive branch.

    Despite his efforts, Sosu expressed doubts about the feasibility of garnering the necessary two-thirds majority in Parliament to override the President’s decision.

  • Woman accused of duping Madina residents with scam story

    Woman accused of duping Madina residents with scam story

    A video making rounds on social media captures the heartbreaking account of a soap seller who claims to have been duped of her entire day’s sales by a group of unknown individuals.

    In the footage, the soap seller recounts how the alleged scammers approached her under the guise of wanting to buy a 50gh soap but claimed to possess 200gh.

    Trustingly, she handed over a balance of 150gh. Just as she was about to receive the 200gh note, an unexpected twist occurred – a woman appeared out of nowhere, expressing interest in buying soap.

    According to the victim, the duo urged her to serve the new customer and assured her that they would wait for their money.

    “Two people stopped me to buy 50gh soap from me, they asked me to give the 150gh because they had 200gh. I gave them and in return they gave me counterfeit. There was another person pressuring to buy from me, those who had my money asked me to serve the woman and get back to them” she stated.

    Falling into the trap, the soap seller proceeded to the new customer, only to discover that the woman had a different preference and didn’t want the soap she was carrying.

    She turned back to take the 200gh from her earlier customers but they were no where to be found.

    “When I got to the woman she said she wanted keysoap instead of the one I was carrying. I turned back to the those who had my money and realized they had left. They took my my money and the soap from me,” she added.

    Meanwhile, social media users have raised suspicions about the legitimacy of her claims

    Some claim she does that to receive money from kind individuals.

  • Madina: Police officer praised for alerting motorcycle rider of fallen GHC2,100

    Madina: Police officer praised for alerting motorcycle rider of fallen GHC2,100

    A Ghanaian police officer has been heaped with praises for being a patriotic citizen and being professional in his line of duty.

    He alerted a motorbike rider plying the Madina road when an amount of GHC2,1000 fell from his pocket.

    In a video shared by X user, @eddie_wrt, the male motorbike rider shared his surprising encounter with the Ghanaian police officer.

    He thanked God for the life of the Police officer and prayed that God blesses him.

    “God bless you. God bless Ghana police. They said that the IGP is changing the Police administration and it is true,” he said.

    For many users on X, the officer showed professionalism and honesty by returning the money to him and have since been singing his praise.

  • Over 70 shops at Madina-Ritz Junction burnt to ashes

    Over 70 shops at Madina-Ritz Junction burnt to ashes

    A devastating fire at Madina-Ritz Junction in the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipality has destroyed over 70 shops.

    This marks the third such incident this year and the fifth within the past two years.

    The cause of the fire is unknown, but previous investigations have suggested conflicts between factions in the area.

    The affected structures include metal containers used as shops and homes.

    Fire Service teams responded to the scene to extinguish the flames, and fortunately, no deaths or injuries have been reported.

  • Girlfriend of Kikibees owner arrested in murder case probe

    Girlfriend of Kikibees owner arrested in murder case probe

    The Police is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of one Bennet Adomah Agyekum, owner of Kikibees restaurant at Madina in the Greater Accra Region.

    Initial investigation has disclosed that the deceased was found on Sunday, October 8, 2023, lying in a pool of blood at a house in Madina and was rushed to the hospital for medical attention but was pronounced dead on arrival.

    The Police has arrested one Yandeh Joof, believed to be the girlfriend of the deceased, in connection with the matter, and she is assisting in the investigation.

    The body of the deceased has since been deposited at the Police Hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy while investigation continues.

  • 4 cars collide on UPSA-Legon road at Madina

    Motorists plying the UPSA-Legon road today experienced a traffic jam after four vehicles collided.

    The four vehicles involved a Mercedes-Benz, KIA Matiz, Sprinter, and a cab.

    Per reports, the red Mercedes-Benz had one of its wheels dislodged from the hub and rolled across the road while the driver was attempting to make a turn towards the UPSA hostel route.

    This rolling tire diverted the attention of the driver of a black KIA Matiz, resulting in a collision with a Sprinter and a taxi.

    Images and videos circulating on social media depict extensively damaged vehicles as a result of the accident.

  • Madina MP says death penalty has become irrelevant

    Madina MP says death penalty has become irrelevant

    Member of Parliament representing Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has expressed firm endorsement for the substitution of death penalties with life imprisonment.

    The report of the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee on the Criminal Offences Amendment Act, which seeks to replace the death penalty with life imprisonment, has divided parliamentarians.

    The Human Rights lawyer believes that although the death penalty was inherited from the colonial administration as a punishment for murder, attempted murder, genocide, piracy, and smuggling of gold or diamonds, Ghana has not signed a death warrant for the execution of offenders since 1993.

    The MP stated that “since Ghana gained independence in 1957, 49 people have been executed either by firing squad or by hanging, and the majority of those executions primarily occurred during military regimes” in an interview with Kwabena Agyapong on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5Fm.

    “Ghana’s current stance is that we actively oppose slavery. This is the case because, commendably, Ghana has not signed a death warrant since 1993 to execute anyone.

    He explained that we should understand how the death penalty was introduced, the circumstances surrounding it, and whether it was still relevant in our books as society progressed.

    “Today, the death penalty is irrelevant. We must remove it from our records and replace it with a life sentence. In practice, we have people sentenced to death, but after 38 years, we release them, so why have the law if you don’t use it again? That is the first question. Second, families of victims of crimes carrying the death penalty have no closure when the people sentenced to death are not executed. Because how does a person get closure if they are sentenced to death and you do not execute them?”

    He stated that there are currently about 176 people on the death roll in Ghana’s condemned cells.

    The conditions in the cells, he lamented, were deplorable and unfit for human habitation.

    “As a human rights lawyer, I have visited the condemned cells and witnessed the conditions in which those who reside there live. It’s terrible, and I urge anyone who is listening to go see for themselves. If you keep people in such a state, the best option is to execute them or change the law to a life sentence.”

    He claims that it is widely acknowledged that the death penalty should be abolished and that the work of the constitutional review commission under the late Atta Mills reflected this.

    He noted that recently when he took part in a UN event, President Akufo-Addo supported the call for repeal as well and even voted in favour of it.

    He came to the conclusion that there is a political and judicial agreement to abolish the death penalty, and as Ghanaians, we must accept that it is time to deal with it.

  • Man behind missing Meek Mill phone rearrested again

    Man behind missing Meek Mill phone rearrested again

    The 33-year-old scrap dealer, Nuhu Sulley, who was previously granted GH¢50,000 bail by an Accra Circuit Court for stealing an American rapper, Meek Mill’s iPhone, has been arrested again for another phone theft.

    This time, he is accused of stealing a phone valued at GH¢4,000 from a medical officer in Madina.

    Sulley appeared before an Adentan Circuit Court and pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy to steal and stealing.

    His alleged accomplice, known as Junior, is currently at large. Sulley has been granted bail in the sum of GH¢100,000 with three sureties, and he is expected to reappear in court on July 20 while the police continue their search for the accomplice.

    An Attorney from the Attorney General‘s Department opposed the grant of bail to Nuhu Sulley, citing his previous charges of phone theft against American rapper Meek Mill during the Afro Nation concert in December.

    The prosecution argued that granting bail to Sulley would pose a risk of him committing a similar offense and potentially fleeing.

    Sulley’s defense counsel described him as a law-abiding and peaceful member of society, stating that he had people willing to stand as sureties.

    The prosecution presented the case that Sulley, along with his accomplice Junior, allegedly stole a Huawei mobile phone valued at GH¢4,000 from a clinical physician in Madina.

    When the complainant felt a hand in his pocket, Sulley was seen running away with the phone. The following day, Sulley was arrested, but he resisted and raised an alarm, resulting in injuries to the complainant and a witness.

    In his caution statement, Sulley denied stealing the phone and claimed that Junior was the one who stole it. Sulley stated that he chased Junior and retrieved the phone from him. The prosecution mentioned that an investigation is ongoing.

  • Motorists severely injured in a gory accident in Madina

    Motorists severely injured in a gory accident in Madina

    A collision involving three vehicles occurred at Ritz Junction in Madina, a suburb of Accra today, May 27, 2023.

    According to one Kojo Akoto Boateng who was at the scene, the vehicles are a Nissan Sentra with registration number GE 1381 15, a Honda Accord with registration number GE 770 19, and a Hyundai mini-bus with registration number GW 6586 18.

    The mini-bus had its front bumper and bonnet completely destroyed. The Accord’s windscreen, bonnet, and bumper were also severely damaged. The Nissan Sentra suffered damage to its boot, rear bumper, exhaust pipe, and badge.

    The drivers of the Accord and Sentra have been rushed to the hospital. They are said to be in a bad state.

    The injured victims were transported to the Ga East, UGMC, and 37 Military Hospitals.

  • Electronic voting system must be instituted in parliament – Sosu

    Electronic voting system must be instituted in parliament – Sosu

    Member of Parliament for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu (Esq), has campaigned for the adoption of an electronic voting method in parliament.

    Sosu believes that incorporating e-voting systems in parliament will facilitate prompt decision-making on the floor and improve the accessibility of voting records for various MPs on specific Bills, legislations, and subjects, similar to practices in other jurisdictions.

    According to Sosu, this technological advancement will significantly contribute to the well-being of the House members.

    He emphasized the need for parliament as an institution to review its internal mechanisms and procedures to ensure the swift passage and resolution of critical Bills and businesses.

    “The time has come for Parliament as an institution to review its internal mechanisms and procedures to ensure speedy passage and resolution of critical Bills and businesses on the floor of the House, and ensure readily available data on records of votes of each MP”.

    “This will also guarantee improved health and wellbeing of members, especially aged members, and ensure members are decorous during decision-making at all times.”

    Parliament has historically devoted excessive hours to the consideration of Bills and legislations on the floor, with recent debates on the contentious e-levy bill serving as a vivid example.

    Sosu further explained that an e-voting system would shed light on the functioning of Members of Parliament, enabling constituents to better understand and appreciate the positions and perspectives of their elected representatives on various subjects.

    These remarks were made by the Madina MP during a stakeholders dialogue session, aimed at promoting participatory democracy and reviewing his performance over the past two years.

  • One dead, 14 structures razed down in fire incident at Madina

    One dead, 14 structures razed down in fire incident at Madina

    A fire outbreak at Madina-Riz Junction on Monday, May 15, 2023, claimed the life of one  28-year-old Rose Minta believed to be sick and bedridden.

    The incident per information from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) occurred in the late morning of Monday. 

    It took over 2 hours for the firemen to completely douse the flame. The  rapid spread of the fierce fire was aided by the close proximity of other combustibles and wooden structures in the vicinity of the fire, the Fire Service said.

    Three pumps from Legon, Adenta and Headquarters were mobilized to the fire scene to augment firefighting. 

    According to the GNFS, a total of 14 makeshift wooden structures used for both residential and commercial purposes and their contents have been destroyed.

    Also, “a metal container and an Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) utility pole” were affected by the fire outbreak, a report from the Fire Service added.

    Due to the gallant firemen, a catastrophe was intercepted as further spread would have hit a gas filling station nearby, a mechanic shop, 10 wooden structures and adjoining buildings.

    Preliminary investigation by the Fire Service reveals that gas cooking apparatus left unattended might have sparked the incident that has left a family bereaved, rendered individuals homeless and others without a means of earning income.

    Meanwhile, the Ghana National Fire Service has extended its sympathy to the bereaved family and other victims of the unfortunate incident.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Unlawful ‘demo’: Xavier-Sosu discharged for want of prosecution

    Unlawful ‘demo’: Xavier-Sosu discharged for want of prosecution

    Member of Parliament(MP) for Madina Francis-Xavier Sosu has been discharged by the Kaneshie District Court.

    It would be recalled that Francis-Xavier Sosu had been hauled before the Kaneshie District Court by the Ghana Police Service over a demonstration he led with his constituents to drum home the need for better roads in the Ayi Mensah-Danfa electoral areas on 25th October 2021.

    He was charged with three counts of causing unlawful damage contrary to section 172(1)(b) of Act 29, obstruction of traffic contrary to section 9(f) of the Public Order Act and Causing Danger to road users contrary to section 22(a) of the Road Traffic Act, 2004.

    However, the charges were vehemently denied by Hon Sosu who insisted he was doing his parliamentary duties to hold the government accountable and acted within the law’s limits.

    But on Monday, April 17, 2021, the Kaneshie District Court presided over by His Honour Oheneba Kuffour discharged the lawmaker for want of prosecution.

    Reacting to his discharge, the Member of Parliament said this discharge clearly confirms his stance that the Police were behaving contrary to the law.

    He further indicated that the attempted arrest by the police during the demonstration and subsequent attempt to arrest him at his church and the interdiction of his police officer were arbitrary capricious and deliberate attempts by the police to maliciously prosecute him for doing his duties as a sitting member of parliament doing his lawful duty within the limits of the law.

  • ‘I proudly studied General Arts’ – Sosu mocks Ashanti Regional NSS boss

    Francis-Xavier Sosu, Member of Parliament for Madina, has stated that the Ashanti Regional Director of the National Service Scheme [NSS] is suffering from what he calls a ‘superiority complex’.

    This was after Alex Opoku-Mensah had stated in a Facebook post that the MP was suffering from an ‘inferiority complex’ in a January 19 post.

    Sosu decided to respond to the NSS boss, Opoku-Mensah after he verbally assaulted a nurse on duty at the Manhyia District Hospital for allegedly speaking rudely with a house officer who is his daughter.

    The NSS boss in a recorded audio is heard calling the said nurse a disappointed science student, adding that if he had the power, no General Arts student would be given the opportunity to be a nurse unless they study Science or Home Economics.

    The MP shared a screenshot of Opoku-Mensah’s post which read “This Madina MP is suffering from [an] inferiority complex!” in a tweet on Tuesday, November 29, he added that he had proudly studied General Arts through which be became a lawyer and an economic policy management expert.

    Sosu in an advice to the embattled NSS boss said “pride kills”.

    “Ah well. I proudly studied General Arts. Ended with Law and Economic Policy Management. This man is obviously suffering from ‘SUPERIORITY COMPLEX’. This was what he said about me in Jan 2022. Pride kills,” Francis-Xavier Sosu tweeted.

    Ah well. I proudly studied General Arts. Ended with Law and Economic Policy Management. This man is obviously suffering from ‘SUPERIORITY COMPLEX’. This was what he said about me in Jan 2022. Pride kills. ????????????????. pic.twitter.com/ZvbYyaSsyS

    — Francis-Xavier Sosu (@fx_sosu) November 29, 2022

    Meanwhile, David Tenkorang Twum, General Secretary, Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), has said that the Association will embark on a strike if the Ashanti Regional NSS boss is not dismissed.

    The Management of the National Service Scheme has, however, invited Opoku-Mensah for preliminary investigations into the matter.

  • Aburi residents up in arms over exorbitant fares, threaten demo

    Passengers in Aburi in Akuapem South district in the Eastern region are up in arms with transport operators over exorbitant road transport fares.

    The passengers are blaming the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) for unreasonable increments affecting cost of transportation.

    Addressing the media, some concerned youth in Aburi noted with disdain that transportation fares in Aburi to any part of nearby areas are high compared to other places despite having good roads.

    The youth in Aburi cited that, while a 23km road from Aburi to Madina now costs Ghc13.60, a 26.9 km road from Madina to Dodowa costs Ghc10.

    The youth argued that transport fares from Aburi to Madina shot up during the reconstruction of Tetteh Quarshie to Mamfe road two decades ago due to the diversion of the road through Kitase -Brekuso to Kwabenya.

    However, drivers failed to reverse the Ghc2 additional increment as agreed with passengers after the road construction rather keeps increasing the fares unfairly.

    This they say is worsening the plight of the people and also affecting businesses and tourism.

    Fred Odei Addo Duodu, Secretary to the youth group demanded an immediate reduction in transport fares else the youth will rise.

    He further stated that “it is our fervent prayer that our demands today on paper must translate into a renewed action by the transport unions to expose those unscrupulous drivers who charge exorbitantly based on their own discretion, push for bolder policies to flush out drivers who disregard the approved general pricing principle by the transport unions”.

    Some opinion leaders in the community said they have made several efforts to petition the Greater Accra Regional GPRTU executives and Akuapem South District Chief Executive but the GPRTU have failed to act on their grievances.

    Residents have given a one-week ultimatum for the fares to be reduced else will stage massive demonstrations and subsequently expulsed recalcitrant drivers from plying to Aburi township.

    However, some of the drivers told Starr News, they can’t be blamed because they only implement fares approved by GPRTU.

     

  • Stabilize economy, new minimum wage too low – Xavier Sosu tells gov’t

    Member of Parliament for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has asked government to channel its efforts into stabilizing the economy to bring relief to citizens.

    The country’s economy has been experiencing a downturn in recent times, with the inflation rate hitting an all-time record high.

    Amid the challenges, the National Tripartite Committee announced an upward review of the minimum wage from the initial GH¢13.53 pesewas to GH₵14.88 pesewas.

    But speaking to Citi News, Francis-Xavier Sosu said even though the increase was commendable, it will be insignificant if government fails to address the worsening economic situation

    “When you review minimum wage and inflation and depreciation are still high, fuel prices are rising, these rises will eat off this increase. This means that government must come again by reviewing the wage. That will be great but more importantly, government must take urgent steps to stabilize the economy otherwise, I do not think that, this revision of minimum wage will have any real impact on the lives of ordinary workers in Ghana.”

    Some Ghanaians have expressed disappointment over the announcement of a slight increase in the daily national minimum wage for 2023.

    Scores of Ghanaian workers Citi News spoke to complained that they had expected something substantial and not the meagre GH¢2.35 that had been added to next year’s minimum wage.

    Joseph Larbi, a taxi driver who drives on the streets of Accra, said he earns way below the National Minimum Wage. He said his daily wage is GH¢10.75 which translates into GH¢160 a month.

    In spite of the Labour Ministry’s directive to establishments, institutions, and organizations to adjust their wages accordingly, Joseph Larbi said he has been on a GH¢160 monthly wage for the last decade.

    The father of one lamented the rise in fuel prices, accommodation, and utilities and said life has been tough for his wife and child.

    A private security guard who also earns below the National Minimum Wage said he has resorted to a bicycle to aid him to commute to his 7-day-a-week job.

    Having no idea what a national minimum wage is, Yaw Twumasi Ankrah said it is difficult to come across any private security personnel that is paid beyond GH¢600 and that security guards are one of the worst-hit demographics of the current economic crisis.

    He lamented the sufferings and difficulties he has to go through to cater for his family of five children and a wife with his GH¢450 monthly wage.

    The challenges confronting the majority of respondents are uniform, ranging from high transport fares to astronomical rises in utility fees.

  • Stabilize economy, new minimum wage too low – Xavier Sosu tells gov’t

    Member of Parliament for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has asked government to channel its efforts into stabilizing the economy to bring relief to citizens.

    The country’s economy has been experiencing a downturn in recent times, with the inflation rate hitting an all-time record high.

    Amid the challenges, the National Tripartite Committee announced an upward review of the minimum wage from the initial GH¢13.53 pesewas to GH₵14.88 pesewas.

    But speaking to Citi News, Francis-Xavier Sosu said even though the increase was commendable, it will be insignificant if government fails to address the worsening economic situation

    “When you review minimum wage and inflation and depreciation are still high, fuel prices are rising, these rises will eat off this increase. This means that government must come again by reviewing the wage. That will be great but more importantly, government must take urgent steps to stabilize the economy otherwise, I do not think that, this revision of minimum wage will have any real impact on the lives of ordinary workers in Ghana.”

    Some Ghanaians have expressed disappointment over the announcement of a slight increase in the daily national minimum wage for 2023.

    Scores of Ghanaian workers Citi News spoke to complained that they had expected something substantial and not the meagre GH¢2.35 that had been added to next year’s minimum wage.

    Joseph Larbi, a taxi driver who drives on the streets of Accra, said he earns way below the National Minimum Wage. He said his daily wage is GH¢10.75 which translates into GH¢160 a month.

    In spite of the Labour Ministry’s directive to establishments, institutions, and organizations to adjust their wages accordingly, Joseph Larbi said he has been on a GH¢160 monthly wage for the last decade.

    The father of one lamented the rise in fuel prices, accommodation, and utilities and said life has been tough for his wife and child.

    A private security guard who also earns below the National Minimum Wage said he has resorted to a bicycle to aid him to commute to his 7-day-a-week job.

    Having no idea what a national minimum wage is, Yaw Twumasi Ankrah said it is difficult to come across any private security personnel that is paid beyond GH¢600 and that security guards are one of the worst-hit demographics of the current economic crisis.

    He lamented the sufferings and difficulties he has to go through to cater for his family of five children and a wife with his GH¢450 monthly wage.

    The challenges confronting the majority of respondents are uniform, ranging from high transport fares to astronomical rises in utility fees.

    Source: Citinewsroom.com 

  • I was only cited for a traffic offence – Sosu denies reports of arrest

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has denied reports by some media outlets that he has been arrested for a traffic offence.

    The MP was reported to have been arrested by the Ghana Police Service for reckless and inconsiderate driving.

    “The lawmaker, who broke the law was arrested on November 3 2022 after he was seen driving in the middle of the road around Airport in his vehicle with registration number GB-9776-21 with no regard for law abiding pedestrians and other road users,” one of the reports indicated.

    But Francis-Xavier Sosu, in a post shared on Facebook on Friday, November 4, 2022, said that he was never arrested but rather cited for traffic offences.

    “I have not been arrested nor under Arrest. The reports making rounds are not entirely accurate. I was cited for traffic offences yesterday, Thursday, November 3 2022 on my way from Parliament to an event in the Constituency,” parts of the post read.

    “This morning, I was in the La Court to have the matter dealt with. I am currently in Parliament performing my parliamentary duties. Again, I am not under arrest,” he added.

    The MP also berated the police for the handling of his case.

    “It seems to me that the news of my arrest is more important to the Ghana Police Service than their core mandate. For instance, how many persons were cited for traffic offences yesterday?” he questioned.

    View the MP’s tweet below:

     Source: Ghanaweb

  • Danfa-Otinibi road yet to be fixed months after Madina MP’s protest

    The Member of Parliament for the Madina Constituency, Francis-Xavier Sosu, October last year led residents of La Nkwantangang-Madina Municipality to demonstrate over the bad roads on the Ayi-Mensah, Danfa, and Otinibi stretch.

    The protest which was to call for immediate attention and work on the road almost led to the Madina MP’s arrest by the Ghana Police Service.

    In an account by Lawyer Sosu, he narrated how he was manhandled adding that his car was also damaged by the police in their attempt to arrest him over the protest.

    Despite all the efforts and cries by the affected communities and their legislator in getting their roads fixed, authorities are yet to commence work on the busy stretch.

    According to people living in Danfa and its environs, the terrible state of their road is affecting lives and business, especially with the current heavy downpour.

    In a news report by GhanaWeb’s Paula Amma Broni, residents pleaded with authorities not to politicize the construction work but instead deploy a constructor to start work on the deplorable road.

    Rosemond Amasa, a resident of Danfa highlighted the effect their road has had on business.

    “Our roads are in terrible condition. The rains have even worsened the situation. It has affected business, especially with the heavy downpour. I am not exaggerating; you should see it for yourself. We need the government’s support now more than ever,” she said.

    Lord Dzokoto also admonished the Madina MP not to give up on his effort in getting them help despite the many failed attempts.

    “This used to be a preferred route for the people living in Amamfrom, Oyibi and its environs. They no longer use this road due to its bad state. There is always traffic on the Amamfrom road. I hope my request gets to the president, come and fix the Danfa road. It is terrible,” he told GhanaWeb.

     

  • Jibu launches in Ghana

    People from many walks of life attended the launch on Wednesday, October 5 in Madina, including a few students who offered powerful testimonials regarding Jibu’s advantages.

    Galen Welsch, chief executive officer of Jibu, addressed the crowd at the opening and expressed delight in choosing Madina as his company’s entry point into Ghana. He also revealed that numerous franchise points will open throughout Accra in the ensuing two years.

    Jibu is already in six other countries with over 10,000 retail points.

    Mr Welsch stressed that the launch on Wednesday is not only a mere ceremony in Ghana but the launch of a “war” against sachet water.

    “I want to announce that today is not just the launch of Jibu Ghana, [but] it is also a launch of a war on sachets. Jibu is here to replace sachet water. We are here to offer refills.”

    He said a franchise model is what will be employed to ensure that many other franchises are established across Ghana.

    A board member of Jibu Ghana, Professor Elikem Nutifafa, was full of praise for the opening of the water-producing firm in Ghana.

    “As you know, for any business setting up for the first time, a lot goes into where to locate the business. In many instances, where you start your business, can make or break you,” he stated, underscoring the choice of Madina as the head office for operation.

    “Madina shares many characteristics with Jibu as a brand.”

    Proprietress of Gina International School in Madina Georgina Fiadzoe expressed joy about the location of the company within her school’s reach and said her pupils are already giving good testimonies, having consumed the product.

  • M.anifest reacts to foreign street names in Madina

    Rapper M.anifest who has for years prided himself in Madina, the community where he grew up has expressed shock over the naming of streets after foreign cities.

    The rapper has brought to the attention of the general public the decision by authorities to name some old streets in Madina after American cities.

    The ‘God MC’ rapper in a TikTok video wondered what might have led to the decision to adopt foreign names in a Ghanaian community.

    Taking a tour of the community located in the country’s capital, he expressed shock at the street names boldly nailed on houses in Madina.

    Also, the largest state in Germany, Bavaria, had a lane in Madina dedicated to it.

    “Charley the streets I grew up on in Madina is now Tennessee street. The next street is also called Oklahoma street and the next street is also called Connecticut Street, this is Madina, not America and the street is also Arkansas For good measure they just added Bavaria,” he noted in the video published on his TikTok account.

    The street address system is done by the Land Use and Spatial Planning Authority (LUSPA) formerly Department of Town and Country Planning in partnership with the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) and traditional authorities.

    Check out the video below:

    Source:ghanaweb.com

  • Madina, Teiman, others to experience power outage today – ECG

    Some parts of Accra will be left without power from 9AM to 4PM today, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has revealed.

    The affected areas are; Madina Zongo, Redco flats, Madina market, Madina Firestone, Kouttam Estate and Teiman burgers town.

    In a circular dated August 8, 2022, the ECG explained that the disruption in power supply is to allow its staff undertake maintenance works.

    According to the power service provider, the current work is to ensure that it is able to improve its service delivery.

    Meanwhile, the Electricity Company of Ghana has apologised to citizens for the “inconvenience that will arise out of this exercise.”

    Since the beginning of the year, ECG has been engaging in a number of maintenance works to ensure it meets current demands.

    ECG to undertake planned maintenance in parts of Accra on Monday

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Fire razes down structures at Madina Ritz Junction

    A fire outbreak at Ritz Junction, a suburb of Madina, Accra, has razed down over 100 structures.

    Reporting the incident, the National Fire Service, in a Facebook post stated that the incident, which happened in the early hours of Sunday, destroyed properties worth thousands of cedis.

    “Fire damage caused to about 100 wooden structures and metal containers used for both residential and commercial purposes and their contents is quite extensive.”

    The inferno, according to the Service, started around 10:21 am but got out of hand after several attempts by the residents to douse the flame.

    The Service added that it took the intervention of firefighters from the Legon, Madina, Headquarters, Abelemkpe and Trade Fair Fire stations over an hour to bring the fire under control to prevent further spread.

    The cause of the fire, according to the Fire Service, is yet to be established.

    Causes of fire outbreak

    Fire incidents have become a regular occurrence, with thousands of lives and millions of dollars lost every year. Persons who are able to survive fire outbreaks are left with permanent scars.

    A research focusing on the trends of fire outbreaks in Ghana, revealed that the rate of fire incidence increased each year and is attributed to several factors including; unstable electricity, illegal electrical connection, negligence, burnable gas fire.

    According to reports, domestic fire accounted for 41% of the total number of fire incidents in the country.

    The Ashanti Regional Command of the Ghana National Fire Service says, 260 cases were recorded in January alone.

    In the Savannah Region,  28.3% increase in the number of fire outbreaks was recorded in the first quarter of 2022.

    To reduce such occurrences, the National Fire Service have advised Ghanaians to ensure that they put all appliances off before leaving their homes.

    Citizens are also encouraged to have emergency exit routes to ensure easy escape amidst an outbreak.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • I will be MP for all – Xavier Sosu to Madina constituents

    Member of Parliament for the Madina Constituency, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has assured his constituents that he will be an MP for all without discrimination.

    The human rights activist is calling for the support of all constituents irrespective of the political affiliation to come onboard and work together to develop the constituency.

    Mr Sosu made the call during his thanksgiving tour to churches and mosques in the Madina Constituency.

    He extended appreciation not only those who voted for him but to every constituent of Madina including the security services, the churches, the mosques, mallams, pastors and several other individuals.

    “I wish to use this opportunity and medium to express in all humility, my sincerest appreciation to all of you for your immense support that has brought us this victory for Madina. Thank you all. For those I’m yet to visit again, be assured of my visit of appreciation to you soon” he stated.

    The legal practitioner snatched the Madina seat from the incumbent Abubakar Saddique Boniface of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 7 December 2020 polls.

    Mr Sosu ran on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and polled 62,127 votes to beat the former Minister of Inner-city and Zongo Development, who polled 46,985 votes.

    Another candidate, Prince Oppong-Boadu of the Ghana Union Movement (GUM), polled 692 votes.

    Source: Class FM

  • Eight persons arraigned for obstructing police operation at Ritz Junction

    The Greater Accra Command of the Ghana Police Service has arraigned eight out of the 109 persons who were arrested for allegedly attacking a team of police officers.

    This comes on the back of an attack by some residents of Ritz Junction on a team of police personnel providing security to a bailiff executing a court order.

    After investigations by the police, eight out of the 109 arrested persons were alleged to have been part of those who disrupted the work of the police.

    Speaking to Citi News, the Public Relations Officer of the Greater Accra Regional Police, DSP Efia Tenge, said the eight persons were put before court for obstructing the work of the police.

    “On the back of some obstructions which took place at Ritz junction on Monday. So on Wednesday, the Regional Command mobilised again and went to the place where 109 persons were arrested for their involvement in obstructing the police in the said operation.”

    “Eight of them were found to have been involved in the said action. So they have been put before court this morning and the rest of them have been released. They were held for assault on a public officer and also obstructing the police officers in the discharge of their lawful duties.”

    Source: citinewsroom

  • 109 arrested for stopping bailiff, police from executing eviction, demolition order at Madina

    The Accra Regional Police Command has arrested 109 people at Riis Junction, Madina, in connection with the obstruction of a bailiff from executing a court order to evict squatters from a disputed land.

    The property is being claimed by two people.

    However, following a court ruling on the disputed land, the bailiff, in the company of some armed police officers, attempted executing the court order but was prevented from doing so on Monday by the squatters.

    The police had to prevent the squatters from beating up the bailiff.

    The armed officers and the bailiff then retreated but regrouped with reinforcement on Wednesday, 9 September 2020 to enforce the court order and also arrest the squatters that obstructed them from carrying out the order on Monday.

    DSP Effia Tenge, Public Relations Officers of the Accra Regional Police Command, told Kwabena Prah Jr on Accra100.5FM’s morning show Ghana Yensom that out of the 109 arrested in the swoop, eight have been identified as being part of the gang that prevented the eviction of the squatters and demolition of kiosks and containers on the property.

    The suspects will be processed and arraigned, the police said.

    Source: Class FM

  • Madina MP, Zongo Minister watch Black Stars train

    Member of Parliament for the Madina constituency Hon. Abuabakar Boniface and the Minister for Inner Cities and Zongo Development, Hon. Dr. Mustapha Abdul Hamid were present at the Black Stars training in Madina.

    The Minister and the MP, together with some community leaders came out to support the Black Stars as they prepare for the Nations Cup qualifier against Sao Tome and Principe on Monday.

    President Akufo-Addo praises Black Stars performance against Bafana Bafana

    The team were training for the first time at the newly constructed astro turf in Madina, build under the leadership of the affable MP.

    Hon. Abubakar Boniface ensured the turf was constructed for the community during his time as Minister for Inner Cities and Zongo development.

    Several football fans also came out in numbers to watch the Black Stars train at the Zurak Park.

    The Black Stars will continue training today at the same venue before enplaning to Sao Tome and Principe on Sunday for the match on Monday.

    Ghana beat South Africa 2-0 in the opening game of the qualifiers through goals from Thomas Partey and debutant Kudus Mohammed.

    Newboy Christopher Antwi-Adjei joined the Black Stars team for the first time in training after arriving late for the South Africa game.

    The incredible number of fans adds to the thousands that showed up at the team’s training in Cape Coast and subsequently for the game against South Africa.

    Source: GHANAsoccernet.com

  • About 30 pedestrians arrested for dangerously crossing Madina-Adenta road

    At least 30 pedestrians have been arrested by the Police at Madina in Accra for indiscriminately crossing the Adenta-Madina highway at unapproved spots.

    Although the overhead footbridge at the Madina Zongo junction has been completed and opened for use, a lot of people in the area have ignored it and been crossing the road from unapproved spots, exposing them to danger.

    Akufo-Addo inspects Madina-Adenta footbridge project today

    Police personnel on Wednesday morning embarked on a special operation to arrest persons indiscriminately crossing the highway at the Zongo Junction, eyewitnesses reported on Accra-based Onua FM.

    It is unclear whether the arrested persons will be cautioned and released or prosecuted.

    Frequent knockdowns of pedestrians on the stretch of the road provoked protests by residents 11 months ago pushing government to get contractors to resume construction work on some six overhead footbridges from Adenta to Madina.

    Contempt of court looms over construction of Madina-Adentan footbridges

    Four of the six bridges have since been completed and opened to the public for use, but some recalcitrant pedestrians still keep crossing the road dangerously.

    Currently, the bridges at Adenta SDA junction, Adenta Barrier, Madina Zongo Junction and Assemblies have been completed with the ones at Madina Redco Flats and Firestone yet to be completed.

    Source: 3news.com