The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has received a donation of 14 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) from the United States government.
The equipment was officially handed over during a ceremony held at the 153 Armoured Regiment, Abuga Square, Burma Camp.
The United States Ambassador to Ghana, Her Excellency Virginia Palmer, presented the vehicles on behalf of the US government.
In her address, she emphasized the strategic importance of bolstering security along Ghana’s northern border, citing the rising threats in the wider Sahel region.
She reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to strengthening Ghana’s defence posture through continued cooperation and the delivery of essential resources.
Also present at the event was the Minister for Defence, Honourable Dr Edward Omane Boamah, who expressed Ghana’s appreciation for the support.
He acknowledged the significance of the donation in advancing peace and stability, both regionally and globally. The Minister also assured that the APCs would be well-maintained and integrated into national defence operations.
The commander of the U.S. military base in Greenland, Col. Susannah Meyers, has been relieved of her duties after reportedly sending an email that appeared to distance the base from comments made by Vice-President JD Vance.
According to the U.S. Space Operations Command, Col. Meyers was removed from her position at Pituffik Space Base due to a “loss of confidence in her ability to lead.”
Last month, during a visit to Greenland, Vice-President Vance criticised Denmark, saying the country had not done enough for the people of Greenland or invested properly in security.
In response, a military news outlet published what is believed to be an internal email from Col. Meyers to base staff, stating that Vance’s remarks were “not reflective” of the base’s views.
A Pentagon spokesperson, referencing the report, said actions that appear to “undermine U.S. leadership” are not acceptable.
Following Vance’s trip, on 31 March, Col Meyers is reported to have written: “I do not presume to understand current politics, but what I do know is the concerns of the US administration discussed by Vice-President Vance on Friday are not reflective of Pituffik Space Base.”
Military.com – which published the email – said the contents had been confirmed as accurate to them by the US Space Force. Appearing to confirm this was the reason for her firing, chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell linked to the Military.com article in a post on X, writing: “Actions [that] undermine the chain of command or to subvert President [Donald] Trump’s agenda will not be tolerated at the Department of Defense.”
The Space Force’s statement announcing Col Meyers’ removal on Thursday said that Col Shawn Lee was replacing her.
It added: “Commanders are expected to adhere to the highest standards of conduct, especially as it relates to remaining nonpartisan in the performance of their duties.”
Col. Susannah Meyers took over as commander of the Arctic base in July last year. She has now been replaced by Col. Lee, who previously led a squadron at the Clear Space Force Station in Alaska.
During his recent visit, Vice-President JD Vance repeated former President Donald Trump’s interest in the U.S. acquiring Greenland for strategic security reasons.
Since that visit, Greenland and Denmark have presented a united stance, firmly rejecting any idea of U.S. annexation of the semi-autonomous Danish territory.
Earlier this month, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen visited Greenland, where she appeared alongside Greenland’s current leader, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, and former Prime Minister Mute Egede to reinforce their shared position.
Speaking to reporters, Frederiksen directly addressed Trump, telling him: “You can’t annex other countries.” She added that Denmark was fortifying its military presence in the Arctic, and offered closer collaboration with the US in defending the region.
The US has long maintained a security interest in Greenland as a strategically important territory. It has had a military presence on the island since occupying it following the occupation of Denmark by Nazi Germany during World War Two.
“If Russia were to send missiles towards the US, the shortest route for nuclear weapons would be via the North Pole and Greenland,” Marc Jacobsen, an associate professor at the Royal Danish Defence College, previously told the BBC.
“That’s why the Pituffik Space Base is immensely important in defending the US.”
Greenland, the largest island in the world, has been under Danish rule for about 300 years.
Surveys show that most Greenlanders support the idea of becoming independent from Denmark, but they do not want to become part of the United States.
Since 2009, Greenland has had the legal right to hold an independence referendum. In recent years, some political parties have been increasing pressure to make that vote happen.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised concerns over the potential macroeconomic consequences of recent tariff measures, warning that they pose significant risks to the global economy, which is already struggling with slow growth.
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva emphasized that while the organization is still assessing the full implications of the new tariffs, they undoubtedly represent a considerable threat.
“We are still assessing the macroeconomic implications of the announced tariff measures, but they clearly represent a significant risk to the global outlook at a time of sluggish growth. It is important to avoid steps that could further harm the world economy. We appeal to the United States and its trading partners to work constructively to resolve trade tensions and reduce uncertainty,” Georgieva said.
The tariffs, which include a 10% duty on Ghanaian goods entering the U.S., are part of a wider protectionist strategy that also targets Chinese imports with a 34% levy and a 20% tax on European Union products. These measures were announced by President Donald Trump in the White House Rose Garden, where he defended the tariffs as a necessary step to address what he described as long-standing economic imbalances. “Our country has been looted, pillaged, raped, and plundered by other nations. Taxpayers have been ripped off for more than 50 years. But that will not happen anymore,” Trump declared.
The new tariffs have ignited backlash from multiple global trading partners, including China, which responded with additional 34% tariffs on U.S. goods, heightening the trade war between the world’s two largest economies. China’s retaliation also included restrictions on rare earth exports and a formal complaint to the World Trade Organization.
As a result of these escalating trade disputes, many countries, including the European Union, are preparing their own retaliatory measures. The European Union’s trade commissioner, Maros Sefcovic, expressed a measured approach, stating, “We will not shoot from the hip – we want to give negotiations every chance to succeed to find a fair deal, to the benefit of both sides.” However, internal divisions within the EU have surfaced, with differing views on how to handle Trump’s tariffs and whether to invoke the bloc’s “Anti-Coercion Instrument” to counter economic pressure from the U.S.
The intensifying trade war has already caused significant disruptions in global financial markets, with fears of a looming recession growing stronger. Investment bank JP Morgan revised its forecast, now predicting a 60% chance of global recession by the end of the year, up from 40% previously.
As tensions continue to rise, the IMF is expected to provide a detailed assessment of the global economic outlook in its World Economic Outlook report, which will be released during the upcoming IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings.
The United States Embassy has emphasized its ongoing commitment to supporting Ghana’s efforts to renegotiate a $190 million grant with the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC).
This grant, which is part of the larger $316 million Ghana Power Compact signed in 2014, was initially intended to improve the country’s electricity distribution system.
However, in 2019, the grant was halted after the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Power Distribution Services (PDS) canceled their concession agreement.
In response to the challenges facing the energy sector, President Mahama has expressed his intent to reopen discussions with the MCC, underscoring the importance of the energy sector to the nation’s overall financial health, referring to it as the “Achilles’ heel.”
In a recent statement to the press, U.S. Ambassador to Ghana Virginia Palmer reiterated her support for the restoration of the grant. She pointed out that both she and President Mahama share similar goals and that these discussions were part of their campaign dialogues.
“The President and I have common goals on this, and we’ve had talks even during the campaign about the importance of this. He was in office when the Millennium Challenge Compact was first designed. Ghana should be a poster child for the Millennium Challenge Compact. It does govern well on behalf of its people,” Ambassador Palmer said.
Ambassador Palmer also expressed disappointment about the cancellation of the third tranche of the grant and stressed the urgent need for reforms within ECG. She highlighted the significant financial losses that ECG faces, citing that the company is losing roughly $2.2 billion annually.
“I was very sad, it was right before my time, but when that tranche was cancelled, I was sad for a number of reasons. The first is that, you know, the reform of ECG was very necessary. And that was something that came up in the National Economic Dialogue—was the fact that ECG is essentially losing $2.2 billion a year, which is equivalent to or more than what you get from the IMF. So that needs to be reformed, clearly,” she added.
The Ambassador continued to support President Mahama’s decision to engage with the MCC once again and reaffirmed her commitment to helping Ghana regain the critical funds needed to transform the country’s energy infrastructure.
“The major aim of the second compact was for the power sector to be whole and not in the red. And that hasn’t been achieved yet. And to be eligible for another compact, you have to pass the scorecard and, you know, govern well on behalf of your people. And having had a successful previous compact. So, we need to make sure that that can happen, and then I will very strongly advocate for another compact,” Palmer stated.
The Ghana Power Compact, signed in 2014, was designed to tackle inefficiencies in the country’s power sector, investing in power infrastructure, improving energy efficiency, and encouraging economic growth. The goal was to address key challenges and ultimately improve the electricity supply for the nation.
A leading global health organization has sounded the alarm over a potential crisis, warning that up to one million children could die from preventable diseases if the United States withdrawsits financial support.
Dr. Sania Nishtar, head of Gavi, an alliance that provides life-saving vaccines to developing nations, told the BBC that losing US funding would severely undermine global health security. Her warning comes amid reports from the New York Times that the Trump administration is considering halting contributions to Gavi, despite the US being its third-largest donor.
While Gavi has not yet received an official notice of termination, Dr. Nishtar confirmed that discussions are ongoing with the White House and Congress to secure $300 million in funding for 2025, along with longer-term financial commitments. The US has previously pledged $1.6 billion for the 2026-2030 period, which accounts for approximately 15% of Gavi’s total budget.
Since returning to office in January 2025, President Donald Trump has emphasized his “America First” approach, signaling a shift in overseas spending priorities.
The international development sector has been preparing for widespread cuts, with USAID among the first agencies affected when the Trump administration imposed a 90-day freeze on all foreign aid earlier this year. The move was part of broader budget reductions overseen by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (Doge).
Dr. Nishtar warned that without US support, 75 million children could miss critical vaccinations, exposing them to deadly diseases such as measles, tuberculosis, pneumonia, and polio. Additionally, the ability of health agencies and governments to maintain emergency vaccine stockpiles for outbreaks of Ebola, cholera, and mpox would be severely compromised.
Medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has echoed Gavi’s concerns, emphasizing the devastating impact that funding cuts could have on global health efforts.
“The consequences of this political decision will be catastrophic,” said MSF USA chief programs officer Carrie Teicher.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) “fully supports” Gavi and was “engaging” with US authorities on the disruption caused by the withdrawal of US funding for major programmes, said Africa CDC emergencies incident manager Dr Ngongo Ngashi.
He added: “We are prioritising routine vaccines but we also know how crucial vaccines for emergencies are.”
Dr Ngashi also said it was “critical that we find our own funding streams – that are not dependent on the decision of partners” and which help Africans contribute “to advancing public health”.
Gavi has said it will try to further broaden its donor base. Indonesia, a country that has previously been a recipient of Gavi’s assistance, became a donor last year.
“As a lean and efficient organisation where 97 cents in every dollar raised goes towards our immunisation programmes, it is impossible to consider that any cut in funding by the US would not have disastrous implications for global health and for the safety of people everywhere,” Dr Sania Nishtar said.
The BBC has contacted the US State Department, which runs what remains of USAID, for comment.
Foreign Affairs MinisterSamuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced that the Ghanaian government is not responsible for the travel expenses of Ghanaians facing deportation from the United States.
Speaking in Parliament while responding to questions about his ministry, on Thursday March 13, the North Tongu MP explained that the U.S. government is covering all travel costs for deportees. He emphasized that Ghana’s only responsibility is to facilitate their return by issuing the necessary travel certificates.
“There’s another issue I must quickly speak to which has to do with the tickets with the returnees. Let place on record that the USA authorities are bearing the cost. They are paying the ticket fares for the deportation of our nationals and all of these deportations they are doing they are taking acre of the cost. We are only to facilitate by providing the travel certificate and making sure that as receiving country we are ready to receive them when they arrive but we are not paying for the tickets , the US authorities are handling that” he said.
His comments come amid the U.S. government’s intensified immigration enforcement, which has led to the mass deportation of undocumented migrants.
He further went on to assured Ghanaians that the individuals being deported from the United States are not criminals but rather hardworking people who failed to regularize their immigration status.
Providing details in Parliament, the North Tongu MP stated, “And in terms of the profile, so far I can confirm that so far the profiling we have done these are indeed Ghanaians but they are Ghanaians who did not commit any crime, or are hardedned criminals, they are decent people who were in such of greener pastures and didn’t regularise their stay….They are very harmless so there shouldn’t be concern in Ghana that when we accept theese people they may attack or undermine the safety of our nationals
Ablakwa urged Ghanaians to support these deportees who are facing this setback following their quest to seek greenr pastures. “…they need is our empathy and our care and show them compassion” he added.
Mr. Ablakwa also revealed that the affected individuals are scheduled to depart the U.S. on March 19, March 28, and April 1.
“None of the affected Ghanaians are in detention as we speak. 50 out of the 150 individuals have received final deportation orders for court. Their deportation is expected to take place by mid-year. The remaining 100 cases are either under appeal or have been dismissed” he continued.
The ongoing deportations are part of an intensified immigration enforcement effort by U.S. authorities, which began on January 26. The crackdown, led by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, has so far resulted in nearly 1,000 arrests, focusing on individuals considered threats to public safety and national security.
The Ghanaian government has pledged to continue monitoring the situation and providing necessary support to affected nationals.
Three Ghanaians in the United States are set to be deported on commercial flights later this month and in early April, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
Briefing Parliament on the latest developments, Mr. Ablakwa revealed that the affected individuals are scheduled to depart the U.S. on March 19, March 28, and April 1.
“None of the affected Ghanaians are in detention as we speak. 50 out of the 150 individuals have received final deportation orders for court. Their deportation is expected to take place by mid-year. The remaining 100 cases are either under appeal or have been dismissed,” he stated.
He further disclosed that one Ghanaian was granted release on medical grounds following discussions with U.S. authorities. Additionally, ten others have been interviewed by Ghana’s Embassy to verify their nationality and ensure they received fair legal representation before their removal. Their deportation now depends on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security securing flight tickets.
Last month, concerns arose over mass deportations of Ghanaians from the United States, with reports suggesting that over 6,000 could be affected. Addressing these claims, Mr. Ablakwa provided clarification during his appearance before Parliament’s Appointments Committee in February.
“There have been reports suggesting that about 6,200 Ghanaians will be affected by the mass deportation from the United States. However, based on the official brief I have received from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the actual number currently communicated to us from Washington, D.C., stands at 156, not 6,200,” he clarified.
The Minister assured Parliament that the government remains committed to ensuring the humane treatment of deportees and continues to engage with U.S. officials through Ghana’s consulate.
“We will not leave them to struggle on their own. The government of Ghana and its people care about their plight, and we are doing our best to extend consular assistance to them,” he added.
The ongoing deportations are part of an intensified immigration enforcement effort by U.S. authorities, which began on January 26. The crackdown, led by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, has so far resulted in nearly 1,000 arrests, focusing on individuals considered threats to public safety and national security.
The Ghanaian government has pledged to continue monitoring the situation and providing necessary support to affected nationals.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has disclosed that out of 150 Ghanaians previously detained across various U.S. immigration centers, 100 have had their cases either dismissed or are currently under appeal.
Briefing Parliament on Thursday, March 13, Mr. Ablakwa clarified that 50 of the affected individuals have received final deportation orders and are set to be repatriated by mid-year.
“None of the affected Ghanaians are in detention as we speak. 50 out of the 150 individuals have received final deportation orders for court. Their deportation is expected to take place by mid-year. The remaining 100 cases are either under appeal or have been dismissed,” he stated.
The minister further revealed that the government had successfully intervened in the case of a Ghanaian detainee who was released on medical grounds to seek treatment.
Additionally, three Ghanaians have completed processing and are scheduled to return home on commercial flights on March 19, March 28, and April 1, respectively. Meanwhile, ten others have undergone interviews with the Ghanaian Embassy to confirm their nationality and ensure they receive due process before deportation. Their return is now pending ticket arrangements by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
The latest update follows earlier concerns about mass deportations of Ghanaians from the United States. Last month, reports suggested that as many as 156 Ghanaians were facing imminent removal due to stricter immigration enforcement policies.
During his appearance before Parliament’s Appointments Committee in February, Mr. Ablakwa addressed these concerns, stating:
“There have been reports suggesting that about 6,200 Ghanaians will be affected by the mass deportation from the United States. However, based on the official brief I have received from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the actual number currently communicated to us from Washington, D.C., stands at 156, not 6,200.”
He assured Parliament that the government, through Ghana’s consulate in the U.S., is closely coordinating with American authorities to oversee a smooth deportation process and provide necessary consular assistance.
“We will not leave them to struggle on their own. The government of Ghana and its people care about their plight, and we are doing our best to extend consular assistance to them,” he added.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has intensified deportation efforts following an immigration crackdown initiated on January 26. The operation, involving multiple federal agencies, has led to nearly 1,000 arrests so far, targeting individuals deemed threats to public safety and national security.
The Ghanaian government remains actively engaged with U.S. authorities to monitor the situation and ensure the well-being of its citizens affected by these deportations.
Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disclosed that 50 Ghanaians currently facing deportation from the United States are expected to be deported by mid-2025.
Updating Parliament on the situation, he revealed that a total of 150 Ghanaians have been implicated in immigration-related offenses, including illegal entry, internet fraud, and rape.
“None of the affected Ghanaians are in detention as we speak. Fifty out of the 150 individuals have received final deportation orders for court. Their deportation is expected to take place by mid-year. The remaining 100 cases are either under appeal or have been dismissed,” he stated.
He further noted that the Ghanaian government had successfully intervened in one case involving an individual in need of urgent medical care, leading to their release.
Additionally, three Ghanaians have been processed and are set to return on commercial flights on March 19, March 28, and April 1, respectively.
Ten more individuals have undergone verification interviews at Ghana’s Embassy to confirm their nationality and ensure they received due process. They are now waiting for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to finalize their travel arrangements before deportation is executed.
Earlier reports suggested that about 156 Ghanaians were at risk of deportation due to heightened immigration enforcement. However, in a previous engagement with Parliament’s Appointments Committee, Mr. Ablakwa dismissed exaggerated figures, clarifying that the official number communicated from Washington, D.C., was 156, not 6,200 as had been speculated.
“There have been reports suggesting that about 6,200 Ghanaians will be affected by the mass deportation from the United States. However, based on the official brief I have received from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the actual number currently communicated to us from Washington, D.C., stands at 156, not 6,200,” he clarified.
The Foreign Minister assured Parliament that the government, through its consulate in the U.S., is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to offer necessary consular support to affected individuals.
“We will not leave them to struggle on their own. The government of Ghana and its people care about their plight, and we are doing our best to extend consular assistance to them,” Mr. Ablakwa assured.
Meanwhile, the U.S. continues its nationwide immigration enforcement operation, launched on January 26. The operation, spearheaded by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has led to the arrest of nearly 1,000 individuals, with authorities prioritizing cases deemed threats to public safety and national security.
The Ghanaian government remains in dialogue with U.S. officials to monitor developments and safeguard the rights of its citizens throughout the deportation process.
Update from Washington Mission indicates that there are currently 150 Ghanaians in detention across various centres in the United States of America (USA) who are awaiting deportation.
Briefing Parliament today, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, noted that these compatriots have been accused of unlawful activities such as rape, internet fraud, and illegal entry.
“None of the affected Ghanaians are in detention as we speak. 50 out of the 150 individuals have received final deportation orders for court. Their deportation is expected to take place by mid-year. The remaining 100 cases are either under appeal or have been dismissed,” he said.
He added that representations have been made to US authorities on behalf of one Ghanaian on the ground of ill health, and he has been released to seek medical care.
Three Ghanaians have also been processed and are scheduled to depart from the US on commercial flights on the 19th of March, 28th, and 1st of April, respectively.
Ten Ghanaians have also been interviewed by the Embassy to verify their nationality and ensure that they have received a fair hearing. They are now awaiting the Department of Homeland Security to purchase their flight ticket before their deportation can be issued.
A month ago, it was reported that approximately 156 Ghanaians are facing imminent deportation from the United States following an executive order by former U.S. President Donald Trump to deport illegal immigrants.
This was revealed by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa in February during his interaction with Parliament’s Appointments Committee. He emphasized that the government is closely monitoring the situation to safeguard the rights of the affected individuals.
“There have been reports suggesting that about 6,200 Ghanaians will be affected by the mass deportation from the United States. However, based on the official brief I have received from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the actual number currently communicated to us from Washington, D.C., stands at 156, not 6,200,” he clarified.
Mr Ablakwa further noted that the government is working in collaboration with Ghana’s consulate in the U.S. to facilitate the deportation process and ensure its smooth execution. He reassured the affected individuals of the government’s commitment to providing them with the necessary support.
“We will not leave them to struggle on their own. The government of Ghana and its people care about their plight, and we are doing our best to extend consular assistance to them,” he assured.
Meanwhile, on January 26, President Trump initiated a comprehensive immigration enforcement operation, enlisting multiple federal agencies. According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), this operation has already resulted in the arrest of nearly 1,000 individuals.
As part of a broader strategy to strengthen immigration enforcement, ICE agents, supported by officials from various Justice Department agencies, have been targeting individuals classified as threats to public safety and national security. The operation is expected to continue in the coming weeks.
The Ghanaian government remains engaged with U.S. authorities to monitor developments and ensure the well-being of its citizens affected by the ongoing deportations.
US Deportations: The Foreign Minister reveals that 150 Ghanaians are currently detained in various centers across the U.S., awaiting deportation.#JoyNewspic.twitter.com/099NhL3rHl
Mark Carney has been elected as Canada’s next Prime Minister, pledging to take a tough stance against US President Donald Trump in an ongoing trade dispute.
Speaking to a crowd of supporters after securing a decisive victory in the leadership race, Carney, a former governor of the Bank of England and Bank of Canada, made it clear that his administration would not back down in the face of US trade policies.
“Americans should make no mistake: in trade, as in hockey, Canada will win,” he declared.
Carney, 59, will be sworn into office in the coming days and has already outlined plans to impose retaliatory tariffs on US goods. He insists these measures will remain in place “until Americans show us respect.”
Despite never having held elected office, Carney won the leadership race with an overwhelming 86% of the vote. He is expected to call a general election soon, though polls indicate a narrowing lead for his party over the Conservative opposition.
His victory comes after Justin Trudeau stepped down in January, ending a nine-year tenure as Prime Minister.
Who is Mark Carney?
Born in the Northwest Territories and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, Carney is an economist with a track record of navigating financial crises. He previously served as governor of the Bank of Canada, helping the country weather the Great Recession, before being recruited to lead the Bank of England in 2013—becoming the first non-British person to hold the role in its three-century history.
Most recently, Carney worked as a special economics adviser to Justin Trudeau, helping shape Canada’s fiscal policies. Now, as Prime Minister, he faces one of his biggest challenges yet—leading Canada through an escalating trade standoff with its largest trading partner.
“In a situation like this, you need experience in terms of crisis management, you need negotiating skills,” he said during a leadership debate last month.
As he takes office, all eyes will be on how he handles tensions with Washington and whether his economic expertise can translate into political success.
Ghanaian Amapiano star DJ Azonto, born Mark Kwesi Arthur, has announced his highly anticipated tour in the United States, set to run from May to August 2025.
The “Fa No Fom USA Tour” will take him across five states, with support from the Rolls Royce Family and BK Entertainment.
Excited about the upcoming journey, DJ Azonto described the tour as a chance to connect with his growing fanbase in the U.S. and elevate his career internationally.
“I have performed globally, and I believe it’s time for my fans in the U.S. to experience my music live,” he said. “This tour is about strengthening my brand worldwide and expanding my reach across America.”
He further highlighted the tour’s significance, calling it “one of the biggest ever organized by a Ghanaian artist in the U.S.” According to him, this milestone is not just a personal achievement but a boost for Ghanaian music on the global stage.
Beyond the tour, DJ Azonto hinted at an upcoming remix of his hit song “Fa No Fom,” featuring a prominent U.S. artist.
“This remix is going to be a game-changer,” he teased, fueling excitement among fans.
With DJ Azonto’s growing influence and the rising global popularity of Amapiano, the tour promises to be a major moment for both the artist and Ghanaian music’s presence on the international scene.
Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has engaged a number of prominent individuals upon assumption of office to maintain the cordial relationship between Ghana and the countries she trades with.
Last week, the minister held disucssions with US Ambassador to Ghana, Her Excellency Virginia E. Palmer and French Ambassador to Ghana, His Excellency Jules-Armand Aniambossou.
The Minister in a post on Facebook noted that “there are much better days on the horizon for Ghana-US relations”, adding that “We are committed to advancing the frontiers of Ghana-France bilateral relations.”
Accoridng to the sector minister, it was sincerely a delight to host these ambassadors during their working visit.
Four women who say they were sexually abused by social media influencer Andrew Tate have asked the US not to get involved in his case in Romania.
The women are worried because they heard that US officials asked Romania to ease travel restrictions on Tate and his brother, Tristan Tate, who have both UK and US nationality. Their lawyer, Matthew Jury, told the BBC that they are confused about why the Trump administration is interfering, but Romania says it is not being pressured by the US.
Tate, 38, and his brother were arrested in Romania three years ago and are facing trial for rape, trafficking minors, and money laundering, which they deny.
In the UK, the brothers are also wanted by police for rape and human trafficking, which they also deny. Their extradition to the UK will be handled after the Romania case is over.
Tate’s representatives had no comment on the new development. The Financial Times reported that US officials mentioned the case to the Romanian government last week, and Trump’s envoy Richard Grenell followed up over the weekend. A source said the US asked for the brothers’ passports to be returned so they could travel while waiting for their trial.
The Tate brothers are not allowed to leave Romania but are no longer under house arrest.
Romanian Foreign Minister Emil Hurezeanu confirmed to Euronews that Grenell had raised Tate’s case with him, and that Grenell had said he was “interested in the fate of the Tate brothers”. The minister denied this amounted to pressure from Americans. A spokesperson for Mr Hurezeanu told the Financial Times: “Romanian courts are independent and operate based on the law, there is due process.” Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu also denied the reports on X, writing: [The US] has not made any requests to [Romania] upon the legal situation of well-known foreign influencers investigated by the Romanian authorities.
“There were no demands either during the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs- Richard Grenell discussion or after it. Romania and USA share the same values regarding the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens.” According to the FT, Grenell said he had no “substantive conversation” with Hurezeanu, but added: “I support the Tate brothers as evident by my publicly available tweets.” The US State Department has been approached by the BBC for comment.
The Tate brothers have wide support on right-wing social media, and supported Trump during the US election campaign. Lawyer Mr Jury said: “It’s very clear from members of the Trump administration’s social media posts and public statements that there is a great deal of support for Tate. “Either they don’t know or they don’t care about the nature of the allegations and how serious they are,” he told BBC Newsnight. He said the women he represented were “absolutely distraught”. “To see the most powerful man in the world support their alleged abuser, is incredibly traumatising… it’s gaslighting of a sort.” And he called the reported US actions a “gross interference in my clients’ right to a fair trial and due process”.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs, has expressed the country’s displeasure over the United States’ recent decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement, calling it a significant setback for global climate efforts.
Speaking before the Appointments Committee on January 30, 2025, Ablakwa emphasized Ghana’s role in supporting the climate accord and the disappointment felt following the US’s exit.
“Let me register our unhappiness at the latest withdrawal by the United States of America from the Paris Climate Accord. That was a very key intervention in the climate change agenda. Ghana played a leading role under former President Mahama when he was president at the time,” Ablakwa stated.
He further lamented that the US’s departure disrupted international climate cooperation but reassured that Ghana would continue advocating for the United States and other major nations to return to the global climate dialogue. “That has clearly created a disruption but we will continue to urge our big brothers and sisters to come back to the climate change agenda and to commit to a new global order to climate issues,” he added.
On January 27, 2025, US President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States had officially notified the United Nations of its withdrawal from the Paris Accord, set to take effect by January 27, 2026. The Paris Agreement, signed in 2015 by nearly all countries, aims to limit global temperature rise and combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
This is not the first time the US has pulled out of the agreement. During his previous term, Trump had withdrawn from the accord, though the agreement has remained intact, with other nations continuing to honor their commitments. In a statement, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric confirmed the US’s withdrawal: “I can confirm to you that the United States has notified the secretary-general, in his capacity as a depository, of its withdrawal on January 27 of this year from the Paris agreement.”
Despite the setback, the Paris Accord is poised to endure, with the broader international community working to keep the climate action momentum going. Major financial contributors, including the United States, play an essential role in funding the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change secretariat. With Washington’s withdrawal, the foundation will seek new sources to meet its financial needs. Billionaire Michael Bloomberg has pledged to fill the gap by providing the necessary funding through his philanthropic efforts.
The Paris Agreement remains a critical framework for addressing the global climate crisis. At COP21 in 2015, world leaders committed to limiting global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, and ideally to 1.5°C, through international cooperation and emissions reduction.
The agreement is legally binding and requires countries to regularly assess their climate goals, finance efforts to help developing nations mitigate climate change, and support climate adaptation measures. All countries must submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to outline their actions for emission reductions and resilience-building, reviewed every five years.
While the US’s withdrawal creates a challenge for the climate change movement, the Paris Agreement remains the cornerstone for global climate action, urging all nations to step up their commitment to a sustainable future.
Today marks the beginning of Donald Trump’s second term as President of the United States, with a swearing-in ceremony that will officially transfer power from the Biden administration to the Trump administration.
The event is scheduled to commence at 11:30 a.m. ET, with Trump taking the presidential oath at noon, in accordance with the 20th Amendment. Due to anticipated cold temperatures in Washington, D.C., the ceremony will be relocated indoors to the Capitol Rotunda.
The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, chaired by Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, is overseeing the day’s proceedings. The theme of this year’s ceremony is “Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise.”
Donald Trump will take the oath of office today to officially begin his second term as President of the United States.
The swearing-in ceremony, marking the transfer of power from the Biden administration, will solidify Trump’s return to the White House.
In accordance with the 20th Amendment, the president-elect’s term commences at noon on January 20. Trump’s inauguration will be the culmination of a series of carefully planned events overseen by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies. This year’s committee, chaired by Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, has themed the ceremonies “Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise.”
The day’s schedule is packed with tradition and symbolism. The events, beginning with a musical prelude by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Combined Choirs and “The President’s Own” U.S. Marine Band, are set to unfold indoors at the Capitol Rotunda due to Washington’s cold weather.
Klobuchar will formally open the proceedings, followed by an invocation delivered by Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York, and the Rev. Franklin Graham. Christopher Macchio, a celebrated opera singer known as “America’s Tenor,” will perform Oh, America!
Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh will administer the vice-presidential oath of office to JD Vance, marking another milestone in the day’s events. “America the Beautiful,” performed by country singer Carrie Underwood alongside the Armed Forces Chorus and the U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club, will follow the vice-presidential swearing-in.
Chief Justice John Roberts will then lead the pivotal moment of the ceremony by administering the presidential oath to Trump. Once sworn in, Trump will address the nation in his inaugural speech.
Other highlights include the Naval Academy Glee Club’s rendition of The Battle Hymn of the Republic and a benediction featuring an interfaith coalition of leaders: Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, Imam Husham Al-Husainy, Pastor Lorenzo Sewell, and Rev. Father Frank Mann.
The program will conclude with a stirring performance of the National Anthem by Christopher Macchio, bringing the historic day to a close.
On Friday, the U.S. Supreme Court appeared likely to support a law that could lead to the sale or ban of the popular appTikTok in the United Statesby January 19.
The court’s discussions mainly centered on concerns over national security risks posed by the app’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance.
The justices questioned whether the Chinese government could exploit TikTok to spy on Americans or influence public opinion.
Chief Justice John Roberts directly asked TikTok’s lawyer, Noel Francisco, whether the app’s Chinese ownership could be ignored, considering the potential for ByteDance to be compelled to assist China’s intelligence efforts.
TikTok, ByteDance, and app users have sued to block the law, arguing that it violates the First Amendment, which protects free speech. However, a lower court previously upheld the law, dismissing these claims.
While some justices raised concerns about the impact on free speech, the focus remained on the risks of a foreign-owned platform collecting data on 170 million American users.
Justice Brett Kavanaugh highlighted the long-term dangers, such as the possibility of China using user data for espionage, blackmail, or recruitment. TikTok’s lawyer argued that the law unfairly targets speech and could shut down the app entirely unless ByteDance divests.
Francisco also requested the court to delay the law’s implementation, noting President-elect Donald Trump’s preference for a political resolution when he takes office on January 20.
Liberal Justice Elena Kagan brought up a historical comparison, questioning whether similar actions against the American Communist Party during the Cold War would have been constitutional.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Solicitor General, Elizabeth Prelogar, defended the law, asserting that TikTok poses a severe national security threat due to the Chinese government’s potential to misuse the platform for espionage or propaganda.
Francisco countered that Congress could not force a company like ByteDance to sell TikTok without violating constitutional rights.
He presented a hypothetical scenario where China could coerce media outlets like The Washington Post but insisted that such forced sales would still infringe on rights.
Prelogar argued that Congress has the authority to act to protect American users and their data from foreign adversaries. She highlighted the risk of China using TikTok’s vast data for covert operations that could harm U.S. interests.
According to her, TikTok’s algorithm, which curates content for users, is part of its speech, and the law directly restricts this.
As the January 19 deadline approaches, the Supreme Court must decide whether to uphold the law or grantTikTok temporaryrelief while the case continues.
U.S. President Joe Biden has appointed a Presidential Delegation to represent the United States at the inauguration of Ghana’s President-elect, John Dramani Mahama, set for January 7, in Accra.
According to an official statement from the White House, Shalanda D. Young, Director of the United States Office of Management and Budget, has been designated to lead the delegation.
The delegation includes key figures such as Virginia E. Palmer, U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, recognized for her contributions to strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations; Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles, California, noted for her extensive involvement in U.S.-Africa relations; and Frances Z. Brown, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for African Affairs at the White House National Security Council, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to African partnerships.
John Dramani Mahama secured victory in the December 7, 2024, presidential election, defeating incumbent Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia. His return to power marks a comeback after serving as Ghana’s president from 2012 to 2017.
The government of the United States of America (USA) has congratulatedPresident-elect, John Mahamafor his commanding lead and victory in the just-ended 2024 elections, assuring him of their readiness to work with him and his government.
“The United States is proud of our enduring partnership and friendship with the people and government of Ghana. We look forward to working closely with President-elect Mahama to carry our historic relationship into the future,” a part of the press statement dated December 9 read.
In the statement, the Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, also extended congratulations to Vice President-elect Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang on “becoming Ghana’s first female vice president.”
Statement from U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken on Ghana's Election. 🇬🇭🇺🇸
According to the Electoral Commission, the National Democratic Congress’ flag bearer, Mahama, secured 56.15% of the total votes cast, beating his closest contender of the New Patriotic Party, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who garnered 43.85%.
Blinken, however, expressed concern over incidents of violence during the elections, which resulted in “at least four confirmed deaths.”
He urged Ghanaian authorities to ensure accountability. “The United States extends our condolences to the families of those killed and urges a full investigation and accountability,” he stated.
Inspite of the electoral violence, the US went on to applaud the Electoral Commission and its staff for their commitment to ensure a “peaceful and transparent process” and commended Vice President Dr Bawumia’s for “his gracious acceptance of the results.”.
The United States has called on Ghanaian authorities to investigate the deaths of electorates during the country’s 2024 general elections.
This follows reports of violence that claimed “at least four confirmed deaths” and left several others injured.
In a statement, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken extended condolences to the families of the victims and urged accountability. “The United States extends our condolences to the families of those killed and urges a full investigation and accountability,” Blinken said.
Despite the isolated incidents of violence, the United States congratulated President-elect John Mahama on his successful election campaign and Vice President-elect Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang for making history as Ghana’s first female vice president.
“We commend the Electoral Commission, its hundreds of thousands of poll workers, civil society, and the country’s security forces, who helped ensure a peaceful and transparent process,” the statement noted. Secretary Blinken also praised Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia for his “gracious acceptance of the results.”
The United States reaffirmed its commitment to Ghana, stating, “We are proud of our enduring partnership and friendship with the people and government of Ghana. We look forward to working closely with President-elect Mahama to carry our historic relationship into the future.”
Meanwhile, Ghana’s police have arrested 89 individuals in connection with violent activities during the elections. According to the police, “40 suspects are directly linked to incidents of vandalism, looting, and the destruction of properties” across the country.
The security agencies assured the public that all suspects will be processed for court, adding, “perpetrators will not escape the law.” Citizens have also been cautioned to refrain from any further acts of violence to ensure peace and stability in the post-election period.
A recent U.S. government report on visa overstays for 2023 reveals that 1,910 Ghanaians who were issued B1/B2 visas overstayed their permits, representing a 7.50% overstay rate.
This report by Customs and Border Protection highlights the issue of visa violations during the period from October 2022 to September 2023.
The data shows that out of the 25,454 B1/B2 visas issued to Ghanaians, 1,910 individuals overstayed, while 537 out of 2,559 F, M, and J visas (issued to students and exchange visitors) also resulted in overstays, accounting for a significant 21% rate.
The report, which provides a breakdown of visa violations, also notes that Ghana’s overstay rate has risen since 2019, when it stood at 5.09% for B1/B2 visas and 12.7% for student visas. This trend of increasing overstays contrasts with Nigeria’s historically higher overstay rates.
In comparison, Nigeria saw 6,000 overstays from 84,051 B1/B2 visas, with a 7.14% abuse rate. The overstay rates for students and exchange visitors in Nigeria were lower, at 15.60%, compared to Ghana’s 21%.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) classifies overstays into “Suspected In-Country Overstays,” where no departure is recorded, and “Out-of-Country Overstays,” where the individual leaves after the visa expires. The report emphasizes the complexities of determining overstays, accounting for extensions or changes in visa status.
Other African countries like Mali, Ivory Coast, and Togo also showed varying overstay rates, with Ghana’s numbers placing it among the countries with significant challenges in visa compliance.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has extended hearty congratulations to its “sister party,” the United States Republican Party, following Donald Trump’s re-election as U.S. President.
In an official statement, the NPP praised Trump and his Vice President-elect, J.D. Vance, on their electoral victory, calling it an “emphatic endorsement” of the Republican Party’s ideals by the American people.
The NPP highlighted the peaceful and transparent nature of the U.S. elections, commending the United States for yet again demonstrating a resilient democratic process. With Ghana’s general election slated for December 7, 2024, the NPP expressed hope that Ghanaians would draw valuable lessons from the U.S. example as they approach their own democratic exercise.
As fellow members of the International Democrat Union, the NPP and the Republican Party share a center-right political orientation, symbolized by their common “elephant” logo. This shared identity, the NPP noted, is a testament to their mutual ideologies, including policies that prioritize economic growth and national security.
Emphasizing the close ties between the two parties, the NPP expressed optimism that Ghana’s “elephant party” would replicate the Republican victory in December.
The NPP statement reflected the party’s alignment with Trump and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s “bold solutions” aimed at securing national prosperity. The NPP’s message echoed a sentiment of shared resilience, asserting that “the ELEPHANT is the WINNING SYMBOL” and that victory is within reach, “by the grace of God.”
As Donald Trump declared victory at his Florida headquarters, he celebrated a “new golden age for America.” This success came after Republican wins in key swing states like Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia, with networks like CBS projecting additional victories in states including Nevada and Wisconsin.
Notably, Trump was joined at his campaign headquarters by mega-donor Elon Musk, whose support boosted morale among Republicans as the results rolled in. This narrow but significant win over Kamala Harris has brought the Republican Party back to the White House, reinforcing the NPP’s belief in the global resurgence of center-right principles.
NPP CONGRATULATES ITS 'SISTER PARTY', THE REPUBLICAN PARTY (@GOP) OF UNITED STATES AND H.E DONALD TRUMP (@realDonaldTrump) FOR WINNING THE US GENERAL ELECTIONS.
Following Donald Trump’s victory in the US presidential election, prominent figures from around the globe have shared their congratulations, with some referring to the result as a historic comeback.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has had a strained relationship with outgoing President Joe Biden, hailed Trump’s return as “history’s greatest comeback,” emphasizing it as a “new beginning for America” and a reinforcement of the “great alliance between Israel and America.”
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also extended his congratulations, expressing eagerness to work alongside Trump, remarking, “From growth and security to innovation and tech, I know that the UK-US special relationship will continue to prosper on both sides of the Atlantic for years to come.”
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a close Trump ally, celebrated the election as a “much-needed victory for the world.” He praised Trump’s success as “the biggest comeback in US political history!” and reaffirmed his support, noting he was the only EU leader to back Trump’s initial bid in 2016.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico described Trump’s victory as a “defeat of liberal and progressive ideas,” advising that it served as a reminder to “never trust the media and polls.” French President Emmanuel Macron expressed readiness to work with Trump “with respect and ambition” and held discussions with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz about defending Europe’s interests in the evolving global landscape.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also acknowledged the longstanding US-Germany partnership, emphasizing collaboration for “prosperity and freedom on both sides of the Atlantic.” NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte highlighted the importance of Trump’s leadership for alliance cohesion, saying he looked forward to advancing “peace through strength.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky conveyed his support for Trump’s “peace through strength” doctrine, hopeful it could pave the way for a “just peace” in Ukraine. However, there are concerns within Ukraine about Trump’s plans to press for a settlement with Russian President Vladimir Putin, potentially compromising Ukrainian territory.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni underscored the “unshakable alliance” between Italy and the US, voicing optimism for strengthened bilateral ties. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris each pledged dedication to the “strategic” relationships with the US.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen extended warm wishes, emphasizing the enduring partnership between the EU and the US, while Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his eagerness to work with Trump for “more opportunity, prosperity, and security.”
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, despite previously supporting Trump’s opponent, wished him “luck and success,” calling for “dialogue and joint work for peace.” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov took a reserved stance, saying Russia would judge Trump’s presidency “based on concrete steps and concrete words,” while Iran’s government noted that their nation’s livelihood would remain unaffected.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Trump a “friend,” expressing his enthusiasm to renew collaborative efforts for the “betterment of our people.” Turkey’s President Tayyip Erdogan also called Trump a friend, hoping for enhanced cooperation on global and regional crises.
Argentina’s President Javier Milei congratulated Trump, echoing his campaign slogan, “Make America Great Again,” while Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese committed to strengthening US-Australia cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mao Ning made a neutral statement, respecting the American people’s choice, while Taiwan’s National Security Bureau Chief Tsai Ming-yen said they expected continued US support.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. commended Americans for their “triumph,” noting that the election showcased the “strength of American values.” Analysts speculate that North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, who held three historic summits with Trump, is closely watching the outcome, as it could open potential channels for renewed dialogue.
African leaders also congratulated Trump, with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressing his desire to “continue the close and mutually beneficial partnership” between the US and Africa. Trump’s prior term saw minimal engagement with the continent, a point of criticism among African nations.
Donald Trump has declared victory over Kamala Harris in the U.S. presidential election, edging close to an unprecedented political comeback.
The former president told cheering supporters at a Florida campaign event that they were on the verge of ushering in “a new golden age for America.”
Needing only one more state to secure the required 270 electoral college votes, Trump appears poised to return to the White House, marking the first such return for a former president in over 130 years. CBS projections indicate his party is also on track to gain control of the Senate.
Addressing his supporters in West Palm Beach on Wednesday morning, Trump said, “This will truly be the golden age of America — that’s what we have to have. This is a magnificent victory for the American people that will allow us to make America great again.”
Elon Musk, the billionaire and a major Trump supporter, was present as results rolled in, with Trump appearing to achieve a near sweep of the critical swing states, including Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia. Additionally, he holds strong leads in Nevada and Michigan, while Wisconsin is leaning Republican according to CBS projections. The final results, however, remain pending.
Harris, who had been expected to speak to supporters at Howard University, canceled her appearance after midnight, as her campaign faced diminishing support. Exit polls suggest she may have underperformed with female voters compared to Joe Biden’s support levels in 2020, as well as slightly lower support among Black and Latino voters.
In Congress, Republicans are projected to take the Senate, reclaiming seats in West Virginia and Ohio, while both parties remain neck-and-neck for control of the House.
Amid high stakes and heightened security, early voting saw 86 million Americans casting ballots in one of the most turbulent election seasons in recent history. Both campaigns have lawyers prepared for potential legal challenges, though voting remained peaceful nationwide despite scattered bomb hoaxes on Election Day.
With Election Day underway, security preparations in Washington, D.C., have intensified, as eight-foot-tall, anti-scaling fences have been installed around government buildings, including the U.S. Capitol and the Treasury Department, in anticipation of potential unrest.
Bicycle racks, marked with “Police Line: Do Not Cross,” now encircle the Capitol, and businesses throughout the city, from Peet’s Coffee to McDonald’s, have boarded up windows to guard against possible looting or street violence.
Enhanced security is also in place at Howard University, where Vice President Kamala Harris plans to host her election night watch party. The area will be fenced off, and surrounding streets are set to close Monday night.
In Florida, fencing and road closures are being implemented around the Palm Beach County Convention Center, where former President Donald Trump is holding his election event.
The precautions follow heightened awareness of potential threats, especially after the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. During that incident, a joint session of Congress was violently interrupted, with over 140 police officers assaulted, government property damaged or stolen, and estimated losses exceeding $2.8 million.
Since then, approximately 1,532 individuals have faced federal charges in connection with the siege. The fortified measures now reflect a proactive approach to safeguarding key locations ahead of the 2024 election.
Polling stations across the United States have begun to open, marking the start of Election Day as millions of voters decide between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris for the nation’s top office.
Polls began at 5:00 a.m. ET (10:00 GMT), following an early voting period in which more than 82 million Americans cast their ballots.
Harris has campaigned on expanding abortion rights and has pledged to make food and housing more affordable for working families. Trump, on the other hand, has focused on sealing the U.S. border and has proposed trillions of dollars in tax cuts.
The candidates closed their campaigns in key battleground states: Trump in Michigan, a state with 15 critical electoral votes, and Harris in Pennsylvania, which holds 19 electoral votes. Both states are pivotal in the race, with Pennsylvania remaining highly competitive after Biden, who hails from the state, narrowly secured it in 2020. Michigan, traditionally a Democratic stronghold, was won by Trump in 2016 but flipped back to Biden in the last election.
Recent data from the BBC suggests narrow leads for Trump in states like Nevada, Georgia, North Carolina, and Arizona, while Harris appears to hold slight leads in Michigan and Wisconsin. Pennsylvania remains highly contested, with both candidates showing neck-and-neck support.
Ghanaian music star Kofi Kinaata was recently honored for his remarkable impact on Ghanaian culture at a special event held in the United States.
The artist, whose real name is Martin King Arthur, enchanted attendees during the first annual fundraising gala organised by Hands of Hope and Starline Promotions at the Bliss Events Centre in Lanham, Maryland, on October 26, 2024.
This celebration of music, philanthropy, and Ghanaian heritage brought together fans, supporters, and prominent personalities united for a noble cause.
Kinaata’s performance stood out as a memorable highlight of the evening. Renowned for his engaging storytelling and poignant lyrics, he captivated the audience with a lively set that had everyone singing along to his popular tracks.
His dynamic stage presence and genuine musicality resonated with fans of all ages.
“Kinaata’s music is simply authentic and relatable. It’s no surprise he’s become a timeless figure in Ghana’s music industry at such a young age,” said Mary, an excited fan.
Queen Adez, the event’s host, echoed her sentiment, stating, “Kinaata’s creative works blend cultural elements with modern sounds, making his music appealing to a wide audience.”
In recognition of his significant contributions, Kofi Kinaata received a special citation honoring his dedication, hard work, and positive impact on Ghana’s music landscape.
The citation was presented by Queen Adez, Dr. Anastasia Dabi, CEO of Hands of Hope, and Governor Kojo Brew, CEO of Starline Promotions.
Governor Kojo Brew commended Kinaata for his influential role in the music industry and his efforts to uplift local communities. He expressed pride in celebrating such a talented artist at an event focused on giving back to society while highlighting the richness of Ghanaian music and culture.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has welcomed the United States’ new visa restriction policy targeting individuals and their immediate relatives who are found to be undermining democracy in Ghana
In a post on Facebook, the legislator noted that such initiative will deter unlawful actions from happening in the country especially at a time Ghana is preparing for its elections.
“A most welcome statement from the US Secretary of State. Those misguided unpatriotic elements who think they can instigate violence, rig elections and subvert the will of the Ghanaian people only to escape with their families to other countries are very likely to rethink,” he wrote.
The United States’ policy, effective immediately, is aimed at promoting democracy in Ghana and will apply ahead of the country’s presidential and parliamentary elections on December 7, 2024.
This measure will specifically affect those responsible for actions that threaten democratic principles and is not directed at the Ghanaian people or the Government of Ghana. A U.S. Department of State statement emphasized that Ghana’s three-decade legacy of democratic elections and peaceful power transitions stands as a model worthy of preservation.
The U.S. reiterated its commitment to the aspirations of Ghanaians for a transparent, credible, and peaceful electoral process, cautioning that visa restrictions will be enforced if necessary to support a fair election that reflects the people’s will.
This visa restriction policy is pursuant to Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and allows the Department of State to implement visa restrictions for individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy in Ghana, including through the manipulation or rigging of the electoral process; the use of violence to intimidate, coerce or prevent people from exercising their rights to freedoms of association and peaceful assembly; the use of measures designed to intimidate, coerce or prevent political party representatives, voters, or members of civil society or the media from voicing or disseminating their views; or engaging in any other activity designed to improperly influence the conduct or outcome of an election. Certain family members of such persons may also be subject to these restrictions. Persons who undermine democracy in Ghana — including in the lead-up to, during, and following Ghana’s 2024 elections may be found to be ineligible for visas under this policy.
Asante Kotoko SC has confirmed that two of its Sudanese players, Esmat AbdalHamid Mohamed and Obdoelkarem Yoouef Yagoub, have gone missing from the club’s camp in the United States.
The players were last seen on Friday, October 11, 2024, when they left the team’s hotel without permission, and all attempts to contact them since then have been unsuccessful.
In an official statement released by the club, Kotoko informed supporters and the public that law enforcement authorities in the United States have been notified, and the club is cooperating fully with them in efforts to locate the missing players.
“Asante Kotoko regrets to inform our supporters and the public that two players, Esmat AbdalHamid Mohamed and Obdoelkarem Yoouef Yagoub, both Sudanese nationals, are currently missing from the camp,” the statement read. “The players left the team’s hotel without permission on Friday, 11th October 2024, and all efforts to contact or locate them have been unsuccessful. The club has officially notified law enforcement authorities in the United States and is cooperating fully to ensure their safe return.”
The two players were part of a group of seven who traveled to the US following Kotoko’s victory over rivals Hearts of Oak in the Democracy Cup. The match was organized by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) as part of the Ghana Week DC 2024 festivities.
The rest of the team, including head coach Dr. Prosper Ogum Narteh, had been awaiting the arrival of additional players, who were in the process of securing their visas.
Two Sudanese players from Asante Kotoko, AbdoelKarem Yagoub and Esmat Abdulhamid, have reportedly disappeared from their hotel in the US ahead of the team’s friendly match against DC United on October 12, 2024.
The players traveled to the US after Kotoko’s victory over Hearts of Oak in the Democracy Cup.
This annual match, organized by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with the Ghana Football Association (GFA), is part of the Ghana Week DC 2024 festivities. Seven players, including Yagoub and Abdulhamid, traveled to the US with head coach Dr. Prosper Ogum Narteh, hoping that the remaining players would secure visas to join them.
However, the club announced on Thursday that efforts to obtain visas for the remaining players were unsuccessful, leading to their withdrawal from the competition. The statement indicated that the contingent already in the US would return on Sunday, October 13.
According to sources from Luv Sports, club officials discovered on Friday night that Yagoub and Abdulhamid were missing from the team hotel, and attempts to locate them have so far been unsuccessful. The players had previously requested permission to go exchange money, but their request was denied. CCTV footage revealed that they sneaked out of the hotel, and there has been no information regarding their whereabouts since.
Team officials in the US are currently searching for the players to ensure their safe return.
Ghanaian preacher and gospel artist Sonnie Badu residing in the US recently shared his struggle with severe depression.
He described isolating himself for long periods in his office, grappling with overwhelming feelings and contemplating self-harm.
Despite these dark times, the well-being of his six young children provided him with the motivation to persevere.
In an interview with Asempa FM, Sonnie Badu credited Rev. Eastwood Anaba for playing a pivotal role in his recovery, revealing that God had shown the esteemed pastor his plight.
Badu reflected on his six-month battle with depression, noting instances where he would sit in his dimly lit office for up to 12 hours without speaking to anyone.
Writing a song during this period became a form of expression for him. He recounted, “The thought of harming myself did cross my mind, but my children kept me grounded.
The last thing I wanted was for them to suffer because of me. Managing bills and expenses, especially after purchasing a home, was daunting.
I turned to prayer, sought guidance, and ultimately found redemption through Rev. Eastwood’s support.”
“I battled depression for almost six months. Sometimes, I would stay in my office alone for 12 hours with the lights off, not wanting to talk to anyone. It was really bad, but during that time, I wrote a song. The thought of harming myself crossed my mind once or twice.
“But thinking about my six children made it difficult. They are young, and if something happened to me, that would be my biggest concern. That thought gave me hope. The painful part was having to pay my bills, and you know how the US system is. All the bills come after buying a house. I had to pray, lay hands, and seek counseling. Rev. Eastwood was the one God used to redeem me,” he stated.
With Kenya marking the anniversaries of significant past terrorist attacks this month, including the 9/11 attacks and the September 21, 2013, Westgate Mall attack in Nairobi, the US has issued a fresh terror advisory to its citizens living in the country.
“While attacks can occur at any time, concerns are heightened in proximity to anniversaries of prior terrorist attacks, such as September 11, the September 21 Westgate Mall attack,” the embassy said in a Friday advisory.
Equally, the embassy says the first anniversary of the surprise attack by Hamas on Israel (October 7, 2023) is nearing.
“The US Embassy in Nairobi reminds US citizens in Kenya that they should exercise increased caution due to the risks of terrorism and kidnapping.
Locations frequented by US citizens and other foreigners and tourists in Nairobi and elsewhere in Kenya continue to be targets for terrorists,” it stated.
The embassy has recommended that US citizens exercise caution in popular tourist spots, reassess their personal security measures, stay updated through local media, steer clear of protest areas, avoid large crowds, and maintain a low profile.
The British High Commission in Kenya echoed these recommendations from the US Embassy.
In a revised advisory issued on September 13, the High Commission included theUS Embassy’s warning on its website and emphasised that visiting regions near Somalia could lead to invalidation of travel insurance for British citizens if they disregard the advice.
Pius Hadzide, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for Asuogyaman, has made a notable campaign promise to his constituents, pledging to facilitate opportunities for those seeking to travel abroad if elected.
During a recent campaign event, Mr. Hadzide promised to assist voters in traveling to the United States for the 2026 World Cup.
He emphasized that his connections and experience in the sports sector would enable him to help Ghanaian youth participate in major international sporting events.
“Nananom, did you know that it takes 18 hours to travel from Ghana to Australia? Yet, I was able to assist some individuals in making this journey. The 2026 World Cup will be held in America, which is just a 7-hour flight from Ghana.”
“If you, Nananom, desire for your children to travel to America to work and send money back home, or if you are a young person eager to explore opportunities abroad, I promise to support you when I become MP.
“Unlike my opponent, who has had the chance but failed to assist the youth, I will facilitate travel opportunities for all interested young people to destinations like Germany, America, UK, France, and Canada.
“So, I kindly ask for your support in the upcoming election, and I will ensure that I help you achieve your dreams of travelling abroad.”
Despite the backlash his promises have stirred, Pius Hadije has defended his statement asserting that there is nothing wrong with the remark.
In an interview with Accra-based GH One TV, the MP explained that his intention is to help improve the lives of his constituents.
He clarified that the offer to travel to the U.S. is part of his efforts to provide better opportunities and experiences for them.
Additionally, he mentioned that the upcoming FIFA World Cup presents a chance for his constituents to enjoy and have fun.
He has made another daring promise to electorates ahead of the 2024 general elections despite the backlash his earlier utterances have garnered.
In a recent interaction with Senior High School students, Pius Hadzide offered to provide them exeats anytime they require one to visit him.
He highlighted his relationship with the headmaster of the school, suggesting that their friendship will provide him the opportunity to grant their exeat requests.
“Your house as much as this is mine. When you have the time or have an exeat or you have the opportunity to go out and you want to come and say hello, you can.
“Your headmaster is my friend. I have a lot of good friends in your school so exeat should not be an issue. So if you want it, let…….know,” he said.
Man of the moment, Mr. Pius Hadzide speaking to a group of students of Akwamuman Senior High School, urged the students to feel free to visit his home as he’ll be in talks with their school authorities to allow them free exeats https://t.co/5tKprz3Jf7
New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for Asuogyaman, Pius Hadzide, has made a compelling promise to his constituents, offering an opportunity to those who seek greener pastures abroad once he becomes a legislator.
Addressing supporters at a recent campaign event, Mr Hadzide made this promise as well as offering to take electorates to the United States for the 2026 World Cup.
Mr Hadzide highlighted his connections and extensive experience in the sports sector as key assets that could open doors for Ghanaian youth to participate in major international sporting events
“Nananom, did you know that it takes 18 hours to travel from Ghana to Australia? Yet, I was able to assist some individuals in making this journey. The 2026 World Cup will be held in America, which is just a 7-hour flight from Ghana.”
“If you, Nananom, desire for your children to travel to America to work and send money back home, or if you are a young person eager to explore opportunities abroad, I promise to support you when I become MP.
“Unlike my opponent, who has had the chance but failed to assist the youth, I will facilitate travel opportunities for all interested young people to destinations like Germany, America, UK, France, and Canada.
“So, I kindly ask for your support in the upcoming election, and I will ensure that I help you achieve your dreams of travelling abroad.”
Despite the backlash his promises have stirred, Pius Hadije has defended his statement asserting that there is nothing wrong with the remark.
In an interview with Accra-based GH One TV, the MP explained that his intention is to help improve the lives of his constituents.
He clarified that the offer to travel to the U.S. is part of his efforts to provide better opportunities and experiences for them.
Additionally, he mentioned that the upcoming FIFA World Cup presents a chance for his constituents to enjoy and have fun.
He has made another daring promise to electorates ahead of the 2024 general elections despite the backlash his earlier utterances have garnered.
In a recent interaction with Senior High School students, Pius Hadzide offered to provide them exeats anytime they require one to visit him.
He highlighted his relationship with the headmaster of the school, suggesting that their friendship will provide him the opportunity to grant their exeat requests.
“Your house as much as this is mine. When you have the time or have an exeat or you have the opportunity to go out and you want to come and say hello, you can.
“Your headmaster is my friend. I have a lot of good friends in your school so exeat should not be an issue. So if you want it, let…….know,” he said.
Man of the moment, Mr. Pius Hadzide speaking to a group of students of Akwamuman Senior High School, urged the students to feel free to visit his home as he’ll be in talks with their school authorities to allow them free exeats https://t.co/5tKprz3Jf7
A young Ghanaian man recently shared a story about missing out on a chance to travel to the US because he chose to prioritize his relationship over the opportunity.
In a video posted by @gabthesharkboy on TikTok, he revealed that when he received his visa, his girlfriend pressured him to choose between their relationship and the trip.
To demonstrate his commitment, he canceled his travel plans.
However, he was stunned to discover the following year that she had moved to the US without him.
When he reached out to her for financial help, she dismissed his request, saying he wasn’t serious about life.
“I got my visa to travel to the United States, but this girl told me if I travel, I don’t love her. So I had to cancel my travel plans to prove my loyalty. The following year, I was checking her status only to realise the girl had gone to the US.
“I texted her and said ‘Since you are in the United States, make you cash me some dollars.’ This girl told me I’m not serious in life,” he added.
Watch below video:
Ghanaian man forgoes US travel to prove his loyalty to his girlfriend
Disgraced R&B star R. Kelly,sentenced to 30 years in prison in 2022 for sexual exploitation of minors, forced labor, and racketeering, is now appealing to the highest court in the United States in a bid for freedom.
On July 31, 2024, Kelly’s legal team submitted an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, aiming to overturn his convictions on several sex crime charges.
The artist, famed for his hit “I Believe I Can Fly,” claims that his trial was fraught with significant legal errors that breached his constitutional rights.
Key points of the appeal:
Unfair jury selection: Kelly’s defence claims that the jury selection process was flawed, potentially leading to a biased panel that was predisposed against him.
Questionable evidence: The appeal challenges the admission of certain pieces of evidence that the defence believes should have been excluded from the trial. They argue that this evidence unduly influenced the jury’s decision.
Witness credibility: The legal team questions the reliability of the testimonies from key witnesses, suggesting that their accounts may not have been trustworthy.
R. Kelly’s legal team is seeking either a complete overturn of his convictions or a new trial, arguing that the original proceedings were significantly flawed.
The Supreme Court’s forthcoming decision on whether to review the case could mark a crucial moment in Kelly’s prolonged legal struggles.
The U.S. Supreme Court typically hears only a small fraction of cases annually, making it uncertain whether they will accept Kelly’s appeal.
Should they choose to do so, it might result in a new trial or potentially his release from incarceration. For now, the public is left awaiting the outcome and whether the former music icon will have another opportunity to exonerate himself.
As the legal battle continues, the question remains whether justice will be served or if this represents merely another episode in the troubled life of a once-celebrated performer.
President Joe Biden has announced his decision to end his candidacy for re-election, citing the best interests of his party and the country.
This announcement, made just four months before Americans head to the polls, significantly alters the landscape of the presidential race.
The decision follows weeks of mounting pressure from fellow Democrats after Biden’s lackluster performance in a debate against Republican Donald Trump at the end of June. Critics pointed to Biden’s occasional incoherence and weakened voice during the debate, which his party attributed to a cold.
In a heartfelt letter posted to his social media account on Sunday evening, Biden expressed his honor in serving as president and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor.
“And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling the duties as President for the remainder of my term,” Biden wrote.
Biden took the opportunity to thank Kamala Harris, calling her an “extraordinary partner,” and extended his gratitude to the American people for their faith and trust in him.
He reiterated his belief in the unity and potential of the United States, saying, “I believe today and always have: that there is nothing America can’t do – when we do it together. We just have to remember we are the United States of America.”
The president, who was diagnosed with Covid last week and has been recuperating at his home in Delaware, indicated on Friday that he was eager to return to the campaign trail.
However, this latest development marks a significant shift in his plans. Biden, who had previously stated that only the “Lord Almighty” could make him withdraw from the race, acknowledged that he would consider stepping down if faced with a health condition.
President Biden’s statement concluded with an announcement that he would address the nation on this matter next week, signaling a new chapter in the 2024 presidential race.
A report from Open Doors, published on Monday, November 13, 2023, has it that over 6,400 Ghanaian students pursued studies in the United States during the 2022-2023 academic year.
The Institute of International Education (IIE) releases the Open Doors Report annually, examining the statistics of international students in the United States.
“U.S. colleges and universities offer world-class educational opportunities and Ghanaian students in the United States are deepening the ties of friendship, family, and business between our countries. We are so happy to see Ghanaians seeking to learn, develop their skills, and return to Ghana to benefit their communities,” said U.S. Ambassador to Ghana Virginia Palmer.
Ghana has entered the top 25 countries globally for sending the highest number of students to the United States.
In the 2022-2023 academic year, the report indicates that a record 6,468 Ghanaians pursued studies in the United States, marking a significant 31.6 percent increase.
Among them, 4,140 were enrolled in graduate degree programs, positioning Ghana as the 14th largest source of graduate students to the United States, with a notable 38 percent rise from the previous year.
In the same period, Ghanaian students secured nearly $9 million in scholarships across 700 educational institutions spanning all 50 states.
To meet rising demand, the U.S. Embassy processed a record number of student visa applications in the last fiscal year.
The United States remains the leading destination for international students, hosting over one million (1,057,188) in the 2022-2023 academic year, reflecting a 12 percent increase from the prior year.
The majority of international students in the United States are pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), with mathematics and computer science standing out as the most popular fields of study.
This year, the U.S. Embassy in Ghana organized the largest-ever EducationUSA college fairs in Accra and Kumasi, attracting over 13,000 students, parents, and academic professionals.
Through EducationUSA, the U.S. Embassy in Ghana assists qualified individuals in navigating the college application process successfully, with advising centers in Accra and Kumasi at ACE Consult in Asokwa.
EducationUSA advisers offer personalized guidance both in-person and online to support Ghanaian students in their applications to accredited U.S. higher education institutions.
Over the past year, advisers from these centers facilitated applications for admission to hundreds of U.S. universities and colleges for thousands of Ghanaian students.
The United States government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has inaugurated an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) centre in the Nanton District of the Northern Region.
This initiative aims to enhance education quality in the area by providing essential teaching and learning resources.
The newly established ICT centre, the first of its kind in the district, is set to benefit more than 1,700 students across six schools.
Housed in a facility donated by the Haira Excellence Academy, the centre received substantial support from private sector partner IPMC Ghana, which contributed 21 laptop computers along with necessary accessories and audiovisual literacy instruction materials.
In addition to the ICT center, USAID has facilitated a significant donation of teaching and learning materials to bolster educational outcomes in the region.
These materials include English teacher guides, read-aloud compendiums, supplementary readers, student textbooks and workbooks, flash cards, and alphabet charts and cards.
Deputy Education Minister, Rev. Ntim Fordjour at the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) center in the Nanton District of the Northern Region
Deputy Education Minister, Rev. Ntim Fordjour at the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) center in the Nanton District of the Northern Region
The agency allocated $70,000 (equivalent to over one million Ghanaian Cedis) for printing and distribution, benefiting 154 low-fee private schools across 13 districts in the Northern, North East, Upper East, and Upper West Regions.
During the commissioning ceremony, U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission, Rolf Olson, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between the private sector, government entities, and educational institutions in enhancing education quality.
He highlighted that the ICT center and educational materials are outcomes of these partnerships, aimed at improving teaching standards and promoting educational access in underserved communities.
The ICT center and educational material donations are integral components of the USAID Advancing Partnerships for Improved Learning (APIL) Activity.
This initiative supports over 200 low-fee private schools in northern Ghana, aiming to provide quality education opportunities for children in marginalized areas.
Olson underscored the United States’ commitment to Ghana’s education sector, emphasizing its role in fostering economic development, reducing poverty, and promoting social cohesion through quality education. He noted that quality education enhances opportunities for decent work, income generation, and overall well-being among citizens.
The United States remains Ghana’s largest bilateral development partner, with substantial support provided through USAID in sectors such as education, health, economic growth, and agriculture.
In 2023 alone, development assistance from USAID to Ghana exceeded $140 million, underscoring ongoing commitment to fostering sustainable development and prosperity in the country.
The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) has strongly condemned the racist online abuse directed at several of its players after a 2-1 loss to Panama in the Copa America.
Monaco striker Folarin Balogun, Crystal Palace defender Chris Richards, and Juventus duo Timothy Weah and Weston McKennie were all targeted with discriminatory messages following the Group C match held in Atlanta.
Timothy Weah, 24, was particularly under scrutiny after receiving a straight red card in the 18th minute for an off-the-ball altercation with Panama’s Roderick Miller, an incident that he later described as a “moment of frustration” and for which he apologized to his teammates.
In a statement released on X, the USSF expressed firm opposition to such behavior, stating, “There is absolutely no place in the game for such hateful and discriminatory behavior. These actions are not only unacceptable but also contrary to the values of respect and inclusivity that we uphold as an organization.”
Despite the numerical disadvantage following Weah’s dismissal, the US team initially took the lead at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium courtesy of a stunning goal by Folarin Balogun, his fifth goal in 14 appearances for the national team. However, Panama equalized just four minutes later through Cesar Blackman’s strike from outside the box.
Panama, ranked 43rd in the FIFA world rankings, capitalized on their advantage in the latter stages of the game, with Jose Fajardo scoring the winning goal seven minutes from time. Panama’s victory was tempered by Adalberto Carrasquilla’s red card for a reckless challenge on US winger Christian Pulisic shortly before full-time.
With the defeat, the US, currently ranked 11th globally, now faces a critical final group match against Uruguay on July 2nd. Both teams are level on points with Panama, but the US holds a superior goal difference. To advance to the knockout stage, the US must match Panama’s result against Bolivia.
The USSF, which will co-host the 2026 men’s World Cup with Canada and Mexico, remains focused on progressing in the Copa America while continuing to advocate for respect and inclusivity in soccer, reaffirming its commitment to combating all forms of discrimination within the sport.
President Joe Biden has introduced a new policy aimed at shielding hundreds of thousands of undocumented spouses of US citizens from deportation, according to officials in his administration.
Immigration has emerged as a significant challenge for Mr. Biden in this election year, prompting him to issue a broad executive order aimed at reducing the influx of migrants at the US-Mexico border.
Under the new policy, undocumented spouses who have lived in the US for at least 10 years will be permitted to work legally.
The White House estimates that more than 500,000 spouses will benefit from this initiative.
Addressing a gathering at the White House on Tuesday, President Biden emphasised that this measure aims to make the US immigration system fairer and more just, benefiting immigrants, married couples, and all Americans.
Recent polls indicate that immigration remains a top concern for many voters leading up to the presidential election in November.
The White House also expects the new policy to extend benefits to approximately 50,000 young individuals under the age of 21, whose parents are married to American citizens.
This move represents the most significant relief effort for undocumented migrants already residing in the US since the Obama administration introduced the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (Daca) in 2012.
“The action I’m announcing today will go into effect later this summer,” Mr Biden said at the White House.
“The steps I’m taking today are overwhelmingly supported by the American people, despite what the other team says,” he added, a reference to Republicans.
The White House announcement coincided with the 12th anniversary of Daca, which protected over 530,000 migrants brought to the US as children – known as Dreamers – from deportation.
Senior administration officials stated on Monday that undocumented spouses of US citizens would qualify if they had resided in the country for 10 years and were married as of June 17.
Those eligible will have three years to apply for permanent residency and can obtain a three-year work permit.
On average, the White House estimates that eligible individuals have been in the US for 23 years, with a majority born in Mexico.
They will be granted “parole in place,” allowing them to stay in the US while their status is adjusted.
NumbersUSA, an organisation advocating for stricter immigration controls, criticised the new policy as “unconscionable.”
The organisation’s chief executive, James Massa, said in a statement: “Rather than stopping the worst border crisis in history, President Biden has overreached his executive authority to use an unconstitutional process, circumventing voters and their elected representatives in Congress, to send a message that amnesty is available to those who enter illegally into the United States.”
Alex Cuic, an immigration lawyer and professor at Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, told the BBC that while the action affected a “narrow group”, it marked a “start” for a segment of the US immigrant population that historically would face complications normalising their status in the country, even when eligible.
“A good majority of them [would have] to leave the country in order to come back lawfully,” he said. “It’s like they physically enter the US, but their immigration ‘soul’ doesn’t come with them.”
By permitting beneficiaries to parole in place, Mr. Cuic emphasised that officials are eliminating the necessity to separate families when one spouse must leave the country to apply for lawful permanent residence.
A senior administration official indicated on Monday that the application process is expected to open by the end of the summer.
The White House is also preparing to streamline and expedite the visa process for highly skilled undocumented immigrants who have obtained degrees from US universities or received job offers in their fields, including Dreamers.
Mr. Biden’s announcement follows his recent issuance of a comprehensive executive action allowing US officials to swiftly deport migrants entering the US illegally without processing their asylum claims.
The White House clarified that this action will occur once a daily capacity threshold is reached and the border becomes “overwhelmed.”
Last week, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) sued the Biden administration, arguing that the action violates US immigration law.
During the announcement, Mr. Biden urged those who find the measure “too stringent” to “exercise patience.”
“[In] the weeks ahead, I will speak about how we can make our immigration system more fair and just,” he said.
Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, policy director at theAmerican Immigration Council,said that while the two announcements “don’t intersect with each other at all,” the more recent action may help the administration “get some positive headlines after the pushback” they received over the border announcement.
“The Biden administration has been receiving a lot of flak from people saying that their focus has all been on new arrivals, when there are so many long-term undocumented immigrants stuck trying to navigate our complicated immigration system,” he added.
“I think the actions you’ve seen the president take over the last few weeks really go towards addressing both those concerns,” Mr Reichlin-Melnick added.
Four tutors from Iowa’s Cornell College have been hospitalised after being stabbed by an unidentified assailant at a public park in China.
The incident occurred during a daytime visit to the park in the northern province of Jilin, according to a statement from the college describing it as a “serious incident.”
Iowa Representative Adam Zabner confirmed that his brother, David, was among the injured, describing the event as a stabbing.
China’s foreign ministry has stated that none of the injured individuals are in critical condition.
According to Mr. Zabner, the group had been visiting a local temple on Monday when they were attacked by a knife-wielding assailant at Beishan Park in Jilin City.
He reported that his brother had sustained a stab wound to the arm and was currently undergoing treatment in the hospital.
“He has not yet been released this morning but he’s doing okay,” he told CBS News.
Cornell College said the four instructors had been teaching “as part of a partnership with a university in China.”.
The group had been accompanied by a member of Beihua University at the time of their visit to the park on Monday.
China’s foreign ministry said that the injured were immediately rushed to a hospital, where they received treatment. Spokesperson Lin Jian would not answer questions about whether the assailant was in custody, adding that further investigation was needed.
“This was an isolated incident and the investigation continues.
China is widely considered one of the safest countries in the world and China will continue to take relevant measures to ensure that foreigners are safe in the country.
“We believe this will not damage relations with other countries,” he said.
Earlier, a spokesperson from the US State Department informed the BBC that they were aware of reports regarding a stabbing incident in Jilin but were unable to offer further details.
Circulating images suggest that at least three individuals are seen bleeding and lying on the ground. However, the incident seems to have swiftly disappeared from China’s internet, with searches for terms like “foreigners Jilin” yielding no results on Weibo despite the topic trending.
Instead, internet users resorted to discussing adjacent topics and seeking additional information about the event.
Hu Xijin, a former chief editor of China’s Global Times, previously mentioned on Weibo that China has experienced a rise in foreign visitors and that the Chinese people are generally welcoming to them, referring to the incident as an isolated occurrence.
However, his post has since been removed.
Chinese state media have also provided minimal coverage of the incident. Mr. Zabner revealed that his brother, a doctoral student at Tufts University, had previously visited China and was on his second trip with Cornell College.
Despite tense diplomatic relations, efforts have been made by Beijing and Washington to promote people-to-people exchanges.
Chinese President Xi Jinping announced a plan to invite 50,000 young Americans to China over the next five years, while Chinese diplomats have criticised a US State Department travel advisory discouraging Americans from visiting China.
Ghanaian-US based public critic, Twene Jonas has been warned by a random elderly man who appears to have walked in on him while he was in a live session.
In a video shared on X (formerly Twitter) by @eddie_wrt dated May 14,2024, the man passionately warned him against insulting and making derogatory statements about people the elderly, and generally all people despite their age.
“Twene Jonas I tell you that I can contract someone at just $500 dollars to kill you, but we won’t do that.
The insults you rain on the elderly is too much, learn to respect people” he noted.
A Ghanaian man who encountered Twene Jonas on the streets of America during a livestream thre@tened that he could hire hitmen with just $500 to take him out because of his insults against Ghanaian leaders and some elderly people. pic.twitter.com/gnJDgGhUV0
While advising the critic on having regard for al men, he interjected by defending himself, boasting of his high regard for people and openness to advice.
He went on to urge him to engage people when he notices they have done something wrong instead of resorting to insults on social media.
“If you keep up with this behaviour you wouldn’t live for long. You over do it. If you notice I have done something wrong, just alert me as your father , as a sibling but going on to rain insults example on the Asantehene , calling him a foolish man and stupid man, is just uncalled for.
However, Twene Jonas defended himself saying “I respect people, I have heeded to your advice but sometimes those insults are not always true to be coming from me. Sometimes they edit them; the bloggers they want more clicks”. he mentioned.
Trump looked serious as the decision was read. People outside were cheering and their voices could be heard in the hallway of the courthouse’s 15th floor. It took more than nine hours for the decision to be made.
“This trial was unfair and shameful,” said Trump angrily to the reporters after he left the courtroom. “The final decision will be made by the people on November 5th. ” They know what happened, and everyone knows what happened here. = They are aware of what happened, and everyone knows what took place here.
Judge Juan Merchan will decide the punishment on July 11. This is just a few days before the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. The GOP leaders still strongly support him and are likely to officially choose him as their nominee at the convention.
The decision is a big legal problem for Trump and could mean he might go to jail in the city where his actions with the tabloid press helped him become famous and eventually president. As he tries to become president again in this year’s election, voters have to decide if they are okay with the way Trump acts.
Trump is likely to challenge the decision and will have a difficult situation when he goes back to campaigning because he has been found guilty. There are no scheduled campaign events right now, but he is expected to appear at Trump Tower on Friday and traveled to a fundraiser in Manhattan on Thursday. This was planned before the verdict, according to three people who know his plans but cannot speak about it publicly. Trump’s campaign raised money after the verdict. They asked for donations and said Trump was a “political prisoner. ”
The charges for faking business records can result in up to four years in prison. It’s not clear if the prosecutors want to send the person to prison, and the judge may or may not decide to do that.
Trump can still try to become president, even if he goes to jail.
Trump is being accused of three serious crimes, but the case in New York might be the only one that is finished before the November election. This makes the outcome even more important. The verdict has clear legal and historical meanings, but its impact on politics is not as clear. It might strengthen people’s existing opinions about Trump instead of changing them.
For another person running for president at a different time, having a criminal record would likely ruin their chances. But despite two impeachments, claims of sexual abuse, investigations into his connections to Russia, and trying to change the election results, Donald Trump’s political career has not been destroyed. There have also been scandalous stories about him, like when he bragged about touching women inappropriately on a recording.
Voters have known about the general accusations in the case for many years. These accusations are considered less serious than the allegations in three other cases where he is charged with harming American democracy and mishandling national security secrets.
Before the decision was made, Trump’s campaign said that whatever the jury decides, it wouldn’t change how people would vote and that the election would be determined by things like inflation.
However, the decision is expected to allow President Joe Biden and other Democrats to strengthen their arguments that Trump is not capable of being in office. The White House only made a quiet statement saying they respected the legal process. On the other hand, the decision will give the likely Republican nominee more reason to say he is unfairly treated by the legal system and that it is biased against him for political reasons.
Trump said he didn’t do anything wrong during the trial. He didn’t think the case should have been brought to court. He complained about the trial inside the courthouse and had many Republican friends supporting him. He also got in trouble for making disrespectful comments about the witnesses outside of court.
After the decision, Trump’s lawyer Todd Blanche said on TV that he doesn’t think Trump got a fair trial. He also said they will appeal because the judge didn’t step down and there was too much news about the trial before it started.
Republicans are still supporting the party leader. House Speaker Mike Johnson said it was a bad day in American history and called the case a political move, not a legal one.
The trial of the former American president, Donald Trump, was a big test for the court system because he was well-known and he constantly criticized the case and the people involved in it. The decision from the 12 jurors showed that they didn’t support Trump’s attempts to make people lose trust in the trial or to try to impress them with Republican support.
Bragg said that even though this defendant is very unusual, the trial and the verdict were reached in the same way as any other case, by looking at the evidence and the law without being influenced by fear or preference.
The trial is about Trump lying about his business records to hide a secret payment to a porn actress, Stormy Daniels, who claimed to have had an affair with him in 2006.
Michael Cohen, who used to work for Trump, paid $130,000 to keep Stormy Daniels from talking about Trump during the last part of the 2016 election. This is against the law and interferes with the election. When Cohen got his money back, the payments were written down as legal costs. The prosecutors said this was not allowed and was an attempt to hide the real reason for the transaction.
Trump’s lawyers say that the payments were for legal services and were lawful. He said it didn’t happen, and his lawyers said in court that because he’s famous, people try to get money from him by threatening to tell lies about him.
Defense lawyers also said that the hush money deals to hide bad stories about Trump were done for personal reasons like protecting his family, not for political reasons. They also tried to make people doubt Cohen, the main witness for the prosecution. He admitted to breaking the law in 2018 and they say he did it because he doesn’t like Trump and just wants attention and money.
The trial had lots of interesting testimony that went over a part of Trump’s past that we already knew about. This was when his 2016 campaign was in trouble because of a recording from “Access Hollywood. ” In the recording, Trump talked about grabbing women without asking and there were also worries about other bad stories about Trump and sex coming out that would hurt his chances of winning.
Trump did not talk in court, but the people listening heard a secret recording of him talking with Cohen about a $150,000 payment to keep a Playboy model, Karen McDougal quiet about her relationship with Trump. Trump says he did not have an affair.
Daniels said herself that she had a sexual encounter with him in a hotel room in Lake Tahoe. David Pecker, the old boss of the National Enquirer, said he tried to stop bad stories about Trump from getting out. He even had his company buy McDougal’s story to keep it secret.
Jurors also listened to Keith Davidson, the lawyer who arranged the secret money payments for Daniels and McDougal. He explained the difficult talks to make sure that both women got paid for staying quiet. But he also had to deal with tough questions from a lawyer representing Trump, who pointed out that Davidson had arranged similar secret payment deals for other well-known people.
The most important witness was Cohen. He talked for days about how he was involved in the hush money scheme and how he says Trump knew all about it.
“Make sure it’s handled,” he said, quoting Trump.
He showed the jury the clearest connection between Trump and the main accusations by describing a meeting where they planned to pay Cohen back for his legal expenses in small monthly payments.
Two Ghanaian-American citizens have been arrested in the United States on charges of wire fraud, allegedly amassing around $7 million over three years.
Kelvin Nkwantabisa, 31, from Atlanta, also known as “Kevin Brown” and “KO,” is the primary suspect and is currently held by U.S. Marshals in Broward County, as reported by Local 10 on Friday, May 24. Nkwantabisa, believed to be an alumnus of Prempeh College, is detained in the Broward Main Jail and faces six federal charges, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
The second suspect, Justice Amoh, also known as “Samuel Andrews,” from The Bronx, New York, is being prosecuted in the Southern District of Florida.
The indictment also names two other co-conspirators: John Jouissance from Canal Winchester, Ohio, and Leshea Moore, also known as “Deborah Green,” from Acworth, Georgia.
The federal indictment details their scheme: they allegedly compromised victims’ business email accounts to monitor and intercept emails discussing wire transfer payments. Posing as legitimate business partners, they sent fraudulent emails with payment and wire instructions, tricking victims into transferring money into bank accounts controlled by the group.
The indictment lists five unidentified victims, including a corporation in Coral Springs, a company in Suffolk, England, and an investor in Auckland, New Zealand. These entities reportedly wired over $7 million to accounts controlled by the group and their co-conspirators.
The group is accused of opening shell companies and bank accounts to receive the stolen funds. Authorities allege the scheme operated from August 2022 through March 2023, with the Coral Springs company alone losing over $1.3 million.
Nkwantabisa appeared in Fort Lauderdale federal court on Thursday and is scheduled for an arraignment and detention hearing next Thursday. Federal court records indicate that Amoh and Jouissance were also taken into custody in New York and Ohio, respectively, this week. Moore was not in custody as of Friday.
This will be the fourth time the United States is giving military help to Ukraine since Congress approved a foreign aid bill last month. The Biden administration has promised to provide weapons regularly and get them to Ukraine’s military quickly.
The package has rocket systems and artillery rounds, as said by two US officials. More things in the aid package are anti-tank weapons like Javelin and AT-4, landmines, vehicles, guns, and bullets for the guns. This was said by an official. Both officials talked in secret to give information about the aid package before it was announced to the public.
Every month, around 50 defense leaders from Europe and other places meet on Mondays to work together to give more military help to Ukraine. At the most recent meeting, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said that Ukraine is facing a tough situation because Russia is attacking Kharkiv, which is the second biggest city in Ukraine. He promised to keep moving weapons every week.
Russia has tried to use Ukraine’s lack of soldiers and weapons to their advantage while Ukraine waits for more help from the US, which was taking a long time to come because of delays in Congress. The Ukrainian military was forced to retreat in some areas, while Russia attacked their power grid and civilian areas.
It also said it would provide $6 billion in funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. This money is used to pay for contracts with the defense industry that last a long time. This means that the weapons might not arrive for many months or even years.
The US has given almost $51 billion in military help to Ukraine since Russia invaded in February 2022 with the latest package.
The survey that lasted four days and ended on Monday found that only 36 percent of Americans think Biden is doing a good job as president, which is lower than the 38 percent in April. He got the worst rating of his presidency, as low as it was in July 2022. This month, the poll shows that Biden’s support has decreased, which might not be good for him when he competes against Donald Trump in the presidential election on Nov. 5.
Biden, a member of the Democratic party, has been in a close race with Trump in national surveys asking people who they plan to vote for. Trump has been a little bit ahead of Biden in a lot of polls in the states that will probably decide who wins the US Electoral College.
The survey showed both things Biden is not good at and a few things he is good at. The most important problem facing the country, according to 23% of people, is the state of the economy. About 21 out of 100 people think that political extremism is the most important issue, and 13 out of 100 people think that immigration is the most important issue.
40% of people in the poll said they think Trump had better ways to help the US economy while he was president from 2017-2021. 30% said they think Biden has better ways. The rest either didn’t know or didn’t answer.
Biden was a little better than Trump on dealing with political extremism, according to 34% of people surveyed. 30% said Trump was better on this issue.
People said they thought Trump was better at dealing with problems in other countries and terrorism. 36% of people liked Trump’s approach, while 29% liked Biden’s approach.
The US economy is a big influence on whether Biden will get reelected.
People who vote are upset because prices have been going up quickly for many years. However, prices are not going up as fast now and many people have jobs. The unemployment rate has been lower than four percent for over two years. Biden is 81 years old, and voters are worried about his age.
Trump, who is 77 years old, is facing four criminal trials, including a hush money trial in New York that will end next week. Trump chose not to answer questions in the case where he is accused of lying about his business records. This means his defense is over and the jury will decide next week. He is trying to overturn his loss to Biden in the 2020 election and there are two more trials waiting to happen because of this.
Trump says he lost the 2020 election because of cheating, but this is not true. He made the claim in a strong speech just before many of his followers broke into the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. Five people passed away.
NBC News said that containers of blood were sent to the committee, according to three people who knew about it. But they didn’t have any other information.
United States says it will pull all its troops out of Niger within the next four months or so after the West African country’s military government ordered them to leave.
Niger last month told Washington to withdraw its military personnel, which number close to 1,000, branding their presence “illegal”.
The military government, which took power last year, has already overseen the withdrawal of troops from former colonial power and traditional security ally France as it has strengthened ties with Russia.
The US withdrawal from Niger has commenced, as confirmed by a joint statement from the Pentagon and Nigerien defense officials on Sunday.
All troops are scheduled to leave the country by September 15, “at the latest.”
Niger had been a crucial ally of the West until a coup occurred last year, actively participating in Washington’s efforts against armed groups in the Sahel region.
Following a five-day meeting, a new agreement was reached between Niger’s defense ministry and the US Department of Defense.
This agreement ensures the protection of US troops until their departure, as stated in the joint statement.
“The withdrawal of American forces from Niger in no way affects the pursuit of relations between the United States and Niger in the area of development.
Also, Niger and the United States are committed to an ongoing diplomatic dialogue to define the future of their bilateral relations,” the statement added.
According to senior military officials speaking to Reuters and The Associated Press news agencies, US troops and certain equipment have already commenced their departure from the country.
The intention is to evacuate all lethal, hazardous, or classified equipment before the final departure of US troops.
However, officials noted that items deemed too costly to transport could potentially be left for use by the Nigerien military instead.
AcknowledgingNiger’s significant role as a cornerstone in US counterterrorism efforts over the past decade, officials admitted to ongoing considerations regarding how to address the resulting gap.
