Day: June 1, 2024

Twice she was denied the opportunity to be called to the Bar despite passing her legal education exams in 2022 and 2023 respectively.

But, certainly not for the third time in 2024 as controversial Ghanaian YouTuber Elorm Ababio popularly called Ama Governor is now called to the Bar as a lawyer.

Beaming with confidence and with a majestic walk upstage when her name was called, Elorm Ababio walked upstage to take the popular bow.

With spontaneous applause from the gathering, everything suggested that Ama Governor was the most popular person among the new lawyers.

Moments after the General Legal Council’s gathering was adjourned sine die (indefinitely) and the official function had closed, EIB Network’s Legal Affairs Correspondent, Murtala Inusah, approached the newly inducted lawyer for an interview.

Beaming with smiles after the introduction of the journalist, she said, ‘I have been advised against granting interviews,’ adding, ‘I am sorry.’

Not even, a request for her to describe the moment in just a wo
rd was enough to convince Ama Governor to kowtow.

With her new lawyer’s wig atop her head walking majestically with so much confidence and with her spectacles almost slipping to the tip of her nose, Ama Governor looked focused.

On the last day of the 5th month of the year 2024, the popular Ghanaian YouTuber and law graduate, Elorm Ababio, popularly known as Ama Governor finally had her dream come true.

She is now a lawyer. Her name has been firmly documented in the noble profession but like the Chief Justice’s admonition to them, the work of a lawyer has just now only begun.

It was evident, how special the day was for the newly enrolled lawyer and the other 181 called to the Bar.

The euphoria and the energy in their respective photo sessions were a story on their own.

For now, Ama Governor is a lawyer and would certainly look forward to when her first client will walk up to her to put her competence and expertise to bear.

The Controversy?

In November 2022, the General Legal Council set up a committee
to investigate the then applicant-in-waiting (Ama Governor) to be called to the bar after a complaint of misconduct was brought against her.

The Council after the consideration of the report, resolved to permit her to fill out appropriate forms for application to be called to Bar in October/November 2023.

The Council said it was then observing and monitoring her activities before considering her application.

The General Legal Council ultimately in a statement noted that it had declined the application of Ama Governor to be called to the Bar, with the ceremony on Friday, October 20, 2023.

?It was the case of the council that her fate was decided at a meeting on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, after consideration of her public conduct leading up to the application.

Court of Public Opinion

The development sparked an outcry with the Court of Public Opinion having their say, especially on social media.

Some legal professionals including human rights lawyer Francis Xavier Sosu were shocked at the General Legal Co
uncil’s decision.

The development further sparked discussions among legal experts and the public about the criteria and considerations that determine one’s eligibility to be called to the Bar.

Source: Ghana Web

The late John Tia Akologo, a former Minister of Information, was on Saturday laid to rest at his hometown, Duusi in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region.

The late Akologo, died on Sunday, March 24, 2024, at the Upper East Regional Hospital in Bolgatanga after a short illness at age 69.

He left behind four children and a wife.

Hundreds of mourners from all walks of life including traditional authorities, political party executives, members and former members of parliament, members of the United Cadres Front, and Cuban Doctors, among others were at Duusi to pay their last respect to the former Member of Parliament (MPs) for the Talensi constituency.

A delegation of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) led by its flagbearer, former President John Dramani Mahama, Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia, Chairman of the Party and other MPs and party faithful joined the family for the private burial rites.

In a tribute, the former President eulogised the late Akologo for his immense contribution to the
growth of the party and Ghana as whole through his service in various fields and institutions.

He said the former Minister was a true cadre and party man who was committed to the 31st December Revolution, and played critical roles under the fourth republic.

‘If all of us were able to carve a successful career in parliament, it was because senior brothers like John Tia were there to hold our hands and teach us the tenets of being a good parliamentarian,’ he stated.

The former President added that there was time for everything, ‘so we pray God will accept our supplications and grant our comrade entry into paradise’.

Mr Tia was born on September 23, 1954 at Gambaga in the North East Region.

He attended the Zobzia Primary School and then the Local Authority Middle School both at Gambaga before gaining admission into Tamale Secondary School to pursue his secondary school education from 1969 to 1974 where he obtained the GCE Ordinary Level.

He later obtained a Diploma in Journalism at the Ghana Institute of J
ournalism in 1980 and later obtained a Certificate in Management, Diploma in Public Administration and Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) in 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.

Mr Akologo had been involved in grassroot politics since the 1980s when he was active in the activities of the Trade Unions between 1985 and 1992, becoming a branch secretary and National Executive Council Member of the Public Services Workers’ Union.

In 1982, he became the Press Secretary of the Upper East Regional Secretariat of the Peoples Defence Committees and Workers Defence Committees set up by the Provisional National Defence Council.

Mr Akologo was elected MP for the Talensi constituency in the 1992 general election on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and retained the seat in subsequent elections until 2012 when he lost to Mr Robert N. Doameng Mosore, of the New Patriotic Party.

The late Akologo was appointed Minister of Infor
mation in 2009 and served in that position until 2014, when he was later appointed Ghana’s Ambassador to Cuba by former President John Dramani Mahama where he served until 2016 when NDC lost power.

The former Minister who was also a journalist worked with the GNA office in Bolgatanga between 1982 and 1990.

He had worked in various fields and until his demise, was a member of the National Council of Elders, representing the Upper East Region.

Source: Ghana News Agency

The Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, says he will honour the promise made to the Okada Riders Association to legalize their operations.

In an address at a durbar of Okada riders at Ashaiman in Accra, the former president assured the riders that their operation would be legalized when he wins the 2024 elections.

He further stated their operation would also be safe from police harassment.

‘Our 2024 manifesto will restate my promise to legalize commercial motorbike operations, ‘okada.’

‘Okada riders and owners will finally be liberated in 2025 and can go about their business, insure their bikes, get licensed to ride okada, be free from police harassment, provide services to the many who need them, and fend for themselves and their families,’ the former president stated.

Source: Ghana Web

Nene Agudey Obitchere III, the Manklalo (Elder) of the Ada State, has called on indigenes to be ambassadors of promoting the various tourist sites and recreational potentials of the town.

Nene Obitchere made the call in a welcome address at the launch of the 87th Ada Asafotufiami Festival.

He said the people of Ada could tell others of the estuary where the Volta River joined the sea and the beautiful islands created by the huge volumes of water washing their way right from Burkina Faso and entering Ghana from the north, all the way to the lowest point in southern Ghana.

‘There is also an abundant spread of tourism and hospitality facilities in the area, with some offering horseback riding, jet skiing, kayaking, canoeing, cycling, and whale watching,’ he said.

The Manklalo commended the Aqua Safari Resort, Treasure Island, and Heartland Hotel for their immense contributions towards projecting the town and supporting the celebration of the festival.

He acknowledged that the current operations in the Songo
r salt mine by Electrochem Ghana Limited could also be projected to attract people into the area, explaining that it was modernising salt production.

‘The salt industry we have been blessed with has the potential to be the highest producer of salt in Africa in a few years,’ Nene Obitchere said.

The 87th Asafotufiami would begin on August 1 and run for 8 days, with activities including homecoming, visits to the sacred forest, grand durbar, royal walk, and sporting activities.

These would showcase the culture, customs, and traditions of the people of Ada.

The festival is celebrated to remember the wars fought by the ancestors to claim and protect the land for the indigenes.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Several high-profile individuals in the country have openly acknowledged their affiliation with the fraternal organization, Freemasonry.

These distinguished figures, who occupy esteemed roles, are also members of different denominations and regularly attend a variety of churches.

Among these personalities are the former President, John Agyekum Kufuor; the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II; Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin; National Security Minister, Albert Kan Dapaah, among others.

John Agyekum Kufuor

Former President John Agyekum Kufuor explained in an interview with Bola Ray that Freemasonry is a platform that nurtures a person morally and not a secret cult as others perceive it.

The former president, who was appointed a Senior Grand Warden of the United Grand Lodge of England, disclosed that he was not the first in his family to join Freemasonry.

“Members of my family have been there before me. Some were there even before I was born. I joined this society in 1967… it is not a secret cult. I
t is a good system for character building… It’s a society that believes in ‘doing unto others as you want it to happen to you’.”

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II

The Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, during the 25th anniversary celebration of his ascension to the Asante throne, confirmed his affiliation with the Grand Lodge of Ghana.

During the occasion, the Asantehene said: “Twenty-five years ago, I was initiated into Freemasonry. There is no doubt that in joining a society or club, one cannot help but wonder what benefit or restrictions await.”

“In the case of Freemasonry, you are left to worryingly wonder more without knowing exactly what you are going to face and with no one ready to tell you what you want to know. After the 25-year period is that I have no regrets on being a Freemason, experiencing what it unfolds and what it means to be called a Freemason.”

Among the members participating in the event were the National Security Minister, Albert Kan-Dapaah, Transport Minister Kweku Ofori Asiamah, Executive Cha
irman of Ghana Community Network Services Limited (GCNet) Dr. Nortey Omaboe, and others who are all part of the fraternal society.

Alexander Afenyo-Markin

Member of Parliament (MP) for Effutu and Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, noted that he is a Freemason and a Roman Catholic at the same time during an interview with Citi TV in February 2024.

“I am a Freemason and a Catholic… I know how to respect friendship and if I give a word to a brother, I have to keep it,” he said.

Henry Martey Newman

He served as a former chief of staff during the time of former President John Atta Mills in 2009. He still carried on with the work even after the demise of the president in 2012.

He, however, handed over his office after President John Dramani Mahama was sworn in.

Dr. Alex Tweneboah

He was alleged to have been expelled from the Brotherhood after a certain incident that led to his arrest. He was caught in a fraud case with the police and arrested.

This supposedly angered the brotherhood since it was aga
inst their principles, and he had to be expelled. He was the former president of the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association.

Otwasuom Osei Nyampong VI

He is the current Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ghana. He disclosed in an interview that he has been in Freemasonry for close to over 30 years. But he further clarified and shed light on its operations.

He denied claims that it was a cult, adding that the society was formed to increase awareness of brotherly love and truth.

About Freemasonry:

Members have said Freemasonry is a fraternal organization with roots in the stonemason guilds of the 16th and 17th centuries, formalized with the establishment of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717.

It is known for its use of rituals, symbols like the square and compass, and its emphasis on moral and ethical teachings, charity, and brotherhood. Though not a religion, Freemasonry requires a belief in a Supreme Being.

However, Freemasonry has faced various concerns and criticisms. Its secrecy has led to suspici
on and theories. Some religious groups criticize it for being incompatible with their doctrines. There are fears of undue political influence and corruption due to Masonic connections.

Additionally, some theories often depict it as a shadowy organization with significant global influence. Lastly, its historical male dominance and perceived lack of diversity have also been points of contention.

Despite these concerns, supporters argue that Freemasonry promotes personal development, ethical behaviour, and charitable work.

Source: Ghana Web

The Southern Programme Impact and Influencing Area (SPIIA) of Plan International Ghana has organised its 2024 youth exhibition fair in Ho, the Volta Regional capital, for 32 youth-led organisations to improve their initiatives.

The organisations, from the Volta and Oti regions, showcased their initiatives in areas such as climate change, child rights, local governance, health, sanitation, women’s rights, education, and agriculture.

It was on the theme: ‘Youth Empowerment, A Necessary Tool for Development.’

Life Mac Africa, Write for World, Developers Net, Plan International Ghana Alumni Network, World Action Network, Ghana Students Project Dot Com, Eclectic Love, Youth for Human Rights International, Royal Africa Generational Thinkers, Community Vulnerable Children Organisation, and Aspire for Gold Foundation were among the exhibitors.

Mr Constant Tchona, the Country Director, Plan International Ghana, said each project on display marked development towards a more equal, sustainable, and inclusive society
, as well as a more empowered youth, particularly young women.

He said Plan International Ghana was implementing numerous youth-related activities for the safe development and well-being of young people with an overall cumulative investment about four million Ghana cedis in youth initiatives, with further investments ongoing.

The Canada office of Plan International provided GHS901,000 in flexible funding to 10 youth-led groups and the Alumni Network of Plan International Ghana. Eight of these youth-led partners are currently in SPIIA.

Mr Tchona said the female graduate volunteer initiative, which began in October 2022, and being implemented in SPIIA with GHS70,000 investment, had directly benefitted six graduate ladies, equipping them with expertise for their professional pathways.

Thirty-six young people also received GHS230,000 through the ‘Smart and Stay Protected’ project, which was financed by Plan International German Office, through the provision of start-up packs for their various businesses.

‘Un
der our Learn programme in SPIIA, five young females have been trained in male dominated skills or trades, including tiling, electricals, and arts with an investment of GHS 47,000,’ he said.

‘Three of these young females have successfully graduated, while the other two are still undergoing more learning.’

Mr Tchona urged the exhibitors to remain steadfast in their commitment to making a difference, knowing that every small action and innovative idea had the potential to create rippling effects that could transform communities and beyond.

Mr Yao Semorde, the Volta Regional Director, National Youth Authority, commended Plan International Ghana for the initiative and said the Authority was willing to work with any group to further develop the initiative.

The Authority was making every effort to establish an environment that would allow the youth to reach their full potential and have a positive impact on national growth.

Mr Sulemana Gbana, Manager of Plan’s SPIIA, said the organisation was committed to buil
ding a just world of equality, where every child had the chance to realise his or her potential.

He entreated stakeholders to provide the necessary support to the youth so that they could navigate life with ease, citing their energy and desire to contribute to societal development.

The Manager stated that the youngsters were innovative and enterprising, which was why the Plan International Ghana wanted to establish a forum for them to get together to discuss ideas and network for business progress.

A few exhibitors who spoke with the Ghana News Agency, conveyed their delight at being a part of the event, and lauded Plan International Ghana for the initiative to grow their businesses.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Apostle Eric Nyamekye, Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, has criticized politicians for making democracy expensive and relying on monetary inducements to secure votes.

He argued that such practices undermine the very essence of democracy and hinder the development of genuine leadership.

Speaking at an event by the Pentecost Church in December 2023, he expressed concern over the future of Ghana’s political landscape and the integrity of its democracy.

“… all of us who desire to have a good name, need to serve humanity. Now, the suggestion that I’m going to offer is this: live and work for the good of people.

“Maybe I should turn here and look at the faces of my parliamentarians. You are making democracy too expensive. The monetisation of what we call democracy is dangerous.

“Soon we are not going to have good leaders because you will need people who have cash, and it doesn’t matter where they got the cash from,’ he said.

He questioned the ethical implications of such actions, suggesting that they co
nstitute a form of deception that preys on the vulnerabilities of the poor.

“This thing is dangerous. If we think that we cannot follow this American democracy, please let us stop it. Let us design something that would help this nation. It is dangerous, and I’m even afraid of the future; I’m afraid of the future,” the Pentecost chairman fumed.

“How can you deceive people just by buying a cutlass for them, and you pride yourself on it? What a shame. I pray that God will save this land. God will save this land because many of us are poor, and instead of investing in them, you deceive them with lanterns and cutlasses. May God have mercy on us.

‘You see when you do this the day that you are no longer the constituency leader, nobody cares about you,’ he added.

Source: Ghana Web

Effective July 1, 2024, household and industrial consumers will be paying more utility tariffs for electricity and water, following a second quarter upward review under the Quarterly Tariff Review Mechanism.

The sector regulator, the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), has announced a 3.45 per cent increase in electricity tariffs for lifeline consumers (0-30kWh).

An increase of 5.84 per cent are to be incurred by all other residential electricity consumers who are not part of the lifeline category bracket (31 kWh and above) as well as the non- residential category.

For those in the industrial category, the Commission has sanctioned a 4.92 per cent increase for electricity consumers, effective July 1, 2024.

On the other hand, water tariffs will experience an increase of 5.16 per cent for all customer classes for the period under review, PURC stated in the quarterly review.

The changes are to last between July 01, 2024, to September 30, 2024, PURC indicated in the second quarter tariff announcem
ent.

‘These reviews are undertaken to maintain the real value of the tariffs, thereby keeping the utility service providers financially viable to enable them deliver on their services to consumers,’ the Commission stated.

The Commission explained that the decision to increase electricity and water tariffs for the period under review tracked and incorporated movements in key uncontrollable factors.

The factors were the exchange rate between the US Dollar and the Ghana Cedi, domestic inflation rate, the electricity generation mix, and the cost of fuel, mainly natural gas.

The Commission said it also considered the competitiveness of industries and the general living conditions of the Ghanaian before arriving at the new increment in tariffs.

The sector regulator stated that during the period under review, there was no change in the generation mix between hydro and thermal.

The weighted average cost of gas (WACOG) increased by 5.23 per cent moving up from US$7.6426/MMBtu to US$8.0422 /MMBtu.

However, the C
edi depreciated against the Dollar by 20.80 per cent between the first and second quarters of the year, moving from GHS12.1349 in the first quarter to GHS14.6584 in the second quarter.

Inflation eased marginally from 28.27 per cent in the first quarter to 24.38 per cent in the second quarter of 2024, the Commission observed.

During the first quarter review, there was no change in electricity tariff for lifeline consumers, an average reduction of 6.56 per cent for consumers within the consumption bracket of 301kWh and above.

However, those who consumed more than 301kWh had an average reduction of 4.98 per cent.

Water tariff for the first quarter of 2024 remained 0.34 per cent, the same for the fourth quarter of 2023.

Source: Ghana News Agency