Election violence: Let’s allow the justice system to work – Paul Aborampa

Paul Aborampa, Programs Manager at the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), has advised Ghanaians to allow the institutions of justice to carry out their mandate without interference and undue pressure. He noted that such independence in the administration of justice would go a long way in curbing the scourge of vigilantism that the country has been battling for some time.

During the inauguration of the Law House in Accra, President Akufo-Addo assured Ghanaians that the government would not sit idly by and allow vigilantes to have their way in the upcoming 2024 elections.

However, speaking on the Morning Starr with Francis Abban, Mr. Aborampa attributed the continued existence of vigilante groups in the political space to the lenient penal regimes prosecutors opted for when charging culprits belonging to such groups.

“Since the promulgation of ACT 999 in 2019, prosecutors still proffer cases from the old criminal code. If someone offends and is charged 10 penalty units, 20 penalty units, which is
250 Ghana cedis, 550 cedis, even their younger brothers can pay. So, we are just advocating for something we are not practicing,” he warned.

“If ACT 999 is enforced and those affected by the ACT publicize it for their colleagues to know the intensity and gravity of the ACT, we will still continue to talk about these issues at every function,” he added.

The Senior Programmes Officer at CDD-Ghana revealed that Members of Parliament who worked with vigilante groups in the past had come to recognize the urgent need to rid the country of their influence.

Addressing arguments that opposition members would be left vulnerable to attacks from state security agencies should the vigilante groups be banned, Mr. Aborampa categorically noted that such allegations were usually talking points by successive oppositions, which were not based on fact.

He challenged politicians who made claims to that effect to back them up with evidence.

He further observed that electoral violence was “cyclical,” in that when offenders wer
e let off the hook, others would be encouraged to do the same.

He was convinced that the government had failed to make vigilantism unattractive by enforcing the tough penalties as provided for in ACT 999.

“I’m not seeing it because of a lack of enforcement,” he said. “I’m not seeing it because of a lack of action.”

Source: Ghana Web

Why Dr. Likee was arrested by the police almost every week sometime ago

Ghanaian actor and skit maker, Ebenezer Akwasi Antwi, popularly known as Dr. Likee, has shared his past experiences with the illicit drug trade.

He disclosed that after leaving school early, he found himself struggling on the streets, trying to make a living for himself.

In his quest for employment, he turned to the illicit drug trade, which proved to be quite profitable and allowed him to enjoy life.

Dr. Likee mentioned that eventually, the local police became aware of his business, leading to frequent arrests.

During an interview with Emelia Brobbey on the Okukuseku show, he expressed no regrets about his past actions, stating they were preferable to armed robbery.

‘When you are on the street, the idea is to make money, and there are ways to do so without necessarily engaging in armed robbery. So if you are bold, you can engage in dealing with illicit drugs. Every week I used to go to the police station because I was arrested.

‘I could even introduce someone who has come out of prison to the illicit d
rug business instead of the person engaging in thievery. With the drugs, they don’t beat you when arrested, but with robbery, you could be crushed to death. The drug business was very lucrative,’ he said.

Dr. Likee has since made a name for himself as a prominent actor in the Kumawood industry.

He also creates YouTube skit videos, which have maintained his presence in the entertainment sector.

Source: Ghana Web

PhD-Dutch passport debate: What significance does US, UK passports hold? – Prophet Kofi Oduro

Prophet Kofi Oduro, the head pastor of Alabaster International Ministries, has expressed his disapproval of those who equate a foreign passport with a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD).

He argues that it is illogical for people to debate the significance of obtaining a foreign passport and a PhD when others are dedicating their time to devising innovative solutions to advance the world.

The pastor asserts that such an argument is fundamentally flawed because it holds no value in death and bears no relevance to one’s salvation.

Addressing his congregation, Prophet Oduro labelled the social media discourse on passports and PhDs as “nonsense.”

“Now, if someone possesses a Dutch passport, does it mean they no longer require education? They are demeaning education. While there are individuals conducting research into artificial intelligence and other areas, we are here talking nonsense.

“What significance does an American or British passport hold? It’s all vanity, and I’m indifferent to your opinion. When Ebony p
assed away, she didn’t take her visa-filled passport with her. I’ve lived overseas and am familiar with how things operate. There are opportunities, but it’s not as simple as it seems,” he fumed.

The discussion escalated after Prof. Kobby Mensah, a lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School, mentioned that a PhD is not the ideal path for those in urgent need of employment.

“A PhD is not for the hungry. It is not for gaining employment, nor is it for entrepreneurship. Get that!’ the lecturer wrote on X.

Various celebrities, including John Dumelo, Sista Afia, Efia Odo, Wayoosi, and Nana Yaa Brefo, have also shared their opinions on the debate.

Source: Ghana Web

A Plus praises Akufo-Addo for offering free dialysis to kidney disease patients

Entertainment pundit and politician Kwame Obeng Asare, popularly known as A Plus, has praised the government for its initiative to provide free dialysis to individuals with kidney disease.

He expressed his deep appreciation to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for responding to public appeals by providing financial assistance to those affected by kidney disease.

A Plus emphasized that this support will ease the financial burden on vulnerable individuals and their families, potentially saving lives, which has been a significant concern in the past.

“I want to show my gratitude to the government. We have been calling for action on social media for Akufo-Addo to intervene, and the government has responded. Many families have faced difficulties because a member has had kidney disease.

“Some have even had to sell their possessions to pay for treatment, only to lose their loved ones afterwards. Several of my close friends have died from kidney diseases. So, it is heartening to hear that the NHIS will cover
dialysis for some patients,” A Plus said in a video posted on his Instagram page.

This response comes after the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) announced that from June 1, 2024, to December 2024, individuals under 18 and over 60 years old with kidney diseases will receive eight free dialysis sessions per month.

Dr. Da-Costa Aboagye, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of NHIA, confirmed in a statement that the initiative was part of the anniversary celebrations.

The Ghanaian government allocated GHS2,000,000.00 for this purpose, which has been approved by parliament, as outlined in the NHIA’s 2024 Allocation Formula.

The aim is to assist financially challenged and vulnerable patients in need of dialysis treatments.

Source: Ghana Web

Empowering Future Leaders: Broadspectrum champions innovation and growth at UGBS 44th Mgt Week

Broadspectrum Limited recently played a pivotal role as the primary sponsor of the University of Ghana Business School’s (UGBS) 44th Management Week. This event, emphasizing leadership and innovation, brought together industry leaders, students, and faculty from across the country, establishing a benchmark for educational collaboration and community involvement.

The highlight of the week was Razak Awudulai, Group CEO, delivering the Opening Remarks, and officially launching the celebration. The participation of Solomon Appier-Sign, the Lead Software Engineer at Broadspectrum Limited, was also significant. His in-depth discussion on the transformative impact of FinTech on the global economy was both enlightening and inspiring. Appier-Sign explored the complexities of financial technology, its role in enhancing financial inclusion, and its potential to support SMEs, sparking rich discussions on the future of financial services among attendees.

Another highlight was the Alumni Mentorship Day, where Broadspectr
um’s Group CFO, Samuel Osew-Kwatia, contributed as a panelist. His expertise in managing economic challenges and fostering resilience resonated deeply with the students, eager to understand the complexities of the business world. Osew-Kwatia’s participation highlighted Broadspectrum’s dedication to empowering future leaders and entrepreneurs, leaving a significant impact on attendees.

This year’s Mentorship Day was supported by a generous sponsorship from Broadspectrum Limited, covering organizational and media expenses and providing refreshments for over 1,000 students. As a major sponsor, Broadspectrum’s branding was prominently featured in all promotional materials, including flyers, advertisements, newsletters, and event brochures, significantly boosting their visibility and influence.

Broadspectrum Limited’s commitment extended beyond financial support, with active participation from team members namely, Lovestone Mamattah, Group CISO, Priscilla Abban Group HR and Admin, and Morenike Ayodele Manager fo
r Marketing and Corporate Communications. Their involvement underscored the company’s dedication to fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented atmosphere, greatly enhancing the event’s success.

As the 44th Management Week drew to a close, the overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants underscored the event’s success and Broadspectrum’s crucial role. The partnership between Broadspectrum Limited and the University of Ghana Business School has set a new standard for educational collaboration, paving the way for future initiatives that inspire and empower young professionals.

Looking forward, Broadspectrum Limited remains committed to supporting educational and community-driven projects. With a vision to nurture talent and drive innovation, the company is poised to continue its impactful journey, contributing to the growth and development of future leaders and innovators.

Source: Ghana Web

Shatta Wale supports Buz Stop Boys clean-up campaign with GH?30,000


Multiple award-winning Reggae-Dancehall artiste Shatta Wale has donated GH?30,000 to the ‘Buz Stop Boys,’ a group of sanitation volunteers.

On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, Shatta Wale participated in the group’s clean-up exercise at Alajo, Accra, and made this donation to support their environmental efforts.

In a brief remark at the presentation ceremony event, the celebrated artiste praised Buz Stop Boys for leading community mobilisation to maintain the environment clean through various sanitation efforts.

‘I came here to simply support and motivate them (the Buzz Stop Boys) in their efforts. We all know that the system is hard, so if we have people like them going to communities to make sure our environment is safe, I think they deserve support.

‘So through my foundation, I deem it right to support their campaign, and I hope they would go on in making our environment clean to promote healthy living,’ the musician said.

He also urged the youth to support the group of volunteers and hopes their various cam
paigns will make a big difference in keeping our communities clean. 

Shatta Wale has joined the list of a few musicians who have supported the sanitation initiative of the Buz Stop Boys who are contributing to mitigate sanitation issues in the country.

The Buz Stop Boys have over the past months received massive commendation for their efforts to keep Accra clean after clearing choked gutters in numerous communities.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Profile of late Labianca CEO Eunice Jacqueline Buah Asomah-Hinneh

The Chief Executive Officer of Labianca Company Limited, one of the largest frozen food imports in West Africa, Eunice Jacqueline Buah Asomah-Hinneh, passed away on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at the International Maritime Hospital (IMAH) at Tema, after a brief illness.

Her passing marks the end of a distinguished career marked by significant contributions to business and public service in Ghana.

Eunice Jacqueline Asomah-Hinneh brought over 35 years of experience in product management, new business development, entrepreneurship, partnership development, supplier/vendor relations, as well as strategic planning and growth.

She was a pioneering entrepreneur who founded Labianca Company Limited, transforming it from a sole proprietorship into a well-established limited liability company within seven years.

Her leadership saw the company grow to employ over 300 individuals, contributing significantly to Ghana’s economic landscape.

Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavours, Asomah-Hinneh was also a dedicated public se
rvant.

At the time of her death, she served as the representative of the Western Region on the Council of State.

Her commitment to public service was further evidenced by her tenure on the Board of Directors of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) from 2017 to 2021.

Her roles in these positions underscored her dedication to the development and governance of Ghana.

Eunice Buah Asomah-Hinneh’s career was, however, not without controversy.

On August 3, 2022, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) released a report implicating her and the Labianca Group of Companies in corruption-related offences.

The report alleged that Asomah-Hinneh, along with another official, used their positions to secure favorable tax treatment for Labianca Company, her frozen foods business.

This led to intensified calls for her resignation by August 9, 2022.

The accusations also involved Colonel Kwadwo Damoah, a former Commissioner of the Customs Division at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and Joseph Adu Kyei, a f
ormer Deputy Commissioner of the Division.

However, a significant turn of events occurred when the High Court in Accra quashed portions of the OSP’s report, clearing Kwadwo Damoah and Joseph Adu Kyei of wrongdoing and ordering the OSP to pay GHC10,000 in costs.

Source: Ghana Web

The accusations are ridiculous, I never cancelled anyone’s concert – Stonebwoy on Shatta’s UG event

Renowned Dancehall/Reggae artiste Stonebwoy has denounced accusations that he was behind the cancellation of a concert by Shatta Wale which was scheduled for June 8, 2024.

The concert, which was supposed to be held at the TF Hostel at the University of Ghana (UG), was cancelled by the university authorities who cited a lack of information from the organizers.

However, Shatta Wale’s camp accused Stonebwoy of influencing the cancellation so it would not coincide with his concert, which took place at the University of Ghana on the same day.

Speaking in an interview on Asaase Radio on June 12, 2024, Stonebwoy denied such accusations, describing them as ridiculous.

He affirmed that he has no power to influence such decisions and said he was shocked that anyone could make such accusations against him.

‘That was really ridiculous to have heard because it’s just like waking up in the morning and being accused strongly of having extra powers.

‘Even if I had such power, I can’t abuse it like that, you know. I hav
e absolutely nothing at all to do with it. So I’m surprised where the accusations are coming from,’ he said.

He stated that he had no idea about the events that occurred involving Shatta Wale and had only gone to perform at his own show.

He further expressed his pleasure that the Dean of Students at the University of Ghana, Prof. Rosina Kyerematen, had come out to clear the air on the matter.

‘I only went to perform at my event and that’s all I can remember. I’m not an event organizer. And I think the dean respectfully came out and we all are seeing that. We just have to amplify that some more,’ he said.

Stonebwoy also said he was disappointed with people who joined in on the accusations and are refusing to offer apologies for their verbal attacks on him.

‘And even after the Dean and others have come to speak on the truth of the matter, you find that those who disbelieved and cursed me are refusing to offer apologies,’ he added.

Stonebwoy, however, said he was not surprised that Shatta Wale would make s
uch claims about him, saying, ‘I believe it’s normal for a brother like him to always find a way to make me appear exceedingly powerful.’

What happened

On June 8, 2024, a scheduled concert featuring Shatta Wale at James Topp Nelson Yankah Hall (TF Hostel) was cancelled, leading to a social media uproar. Despite Shatta Wale’s anticipation and promotion for his performance, the university’s Dean of Students’ office said it had not approved the event.

Shatta Wale, however, accused rival Stonebwoy of influencing the cancellation to prevent them from performing at the same venue. The event’s organizers, Wave Africa, confirmed that they had been instructed not to allow Shatta Wale’s performance by an order from above, despite having resolved earlier issues with the Dean’s office.

Stonebwoy’s event at Limann Hall, however, proceeded without issue, marking a successful night.

What UG has said

The University of Ghana clarified that there are no issues with Shatta Wale and that his concert’s cancellation at the T
F Hostel was not due to any external influence.

“The University has no issues with Shatta Wale. The University is not involved with Shatta Wale. Normally, what happens is that if any event is going to be organized in any hall, a request for approval is sent to my office (Dean’s Office) with an outline of the program they intend to organize.

“What they (the organizers) said they were going to do on Saturday was Karaoke Night, and so we approved. As far as I am concerned, there is a big difference between a Karaoke Night and an Artiste Night,” Dean of Students at the University of Ghana, Prof. Rosina Kyeremanten said.

Source: Ghana Web