Reymond Awusei Johnson

This initiative aims to promote effective waste management practices, improve environmental cleanliness, and foster community responsibility towards environmental stewardship.

Launching the initiative at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) on Friday, June 21, 2024, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II emphasized the importance of community involvement. “We expect all shops and businesses in the designated area to close on the day of the exercise. We also urge leaders of various groups and associations to participate fully,” he stated.

The one-month campaign, themed “Let’s Keep Accra Clean,” is a collaboration between the Ga Traditional Council (GTC) and various government agencies. It will cover all 25 local government authorities within the Greater Accra Region. The initiative includes household registration for organized waste collection services, education on waste management techniques, and enforcement of bylaws to ensure compliance with waste management regulations.

King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II stressed that environmental cleanliness should not be politicized, highlighting that it is a concern for everyone, regardless of political affiliations. He urged residents to adhere strictly to sanitation bylaws, clean their frontages, gutters, and premises, and called for the reintroduction of communal labor and intensified public education on sanitation.

To ensure compliance, a special task force will be deployed to arrest and prosecute those who violate the sanitation bylaws. The Ga Mantse also urged the Assemblies to provide refuse bins at strategic locations.

An exciting aspect of the campaign is the introduction of sanitation competitions among schools, communities, markets, and lorry stations, with awards for the cleanest areas. These awards aim to motivate participants and foster a spirit of friendly competition and community pride.

King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II also called on corporate institutions in the capital to adopt sustainable practices and green policies that prioritize environmental well-being.

Supporting the initiative, collaborating government ministries have pledged their resources and expertise. Accra Mayor Elizabeth K.T. Sackey stressed the importance of a clean environment for safety and security, praising the Ga Mantse’s involvement. “His Majesty’s participation underscores the gravity of this issue and the collective responsibility we must embrace to create a cleaner, healthier Accra for all,” she said.

Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development (MLGDRD), Vincent Ekow Assafuah, commended the Ga Mantse’s leadership and contributions to Accra’s cleanliness, emphasizing the cultural significance of the Homowo festival, which is rooted in values of cleanliness and community pride.

The Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources (MSWR), Lydia Seyram Alhassan, highlighted the ministry’s preparedness for the clean-up exercise, revealing resources including 30 compaction trucks, over 30 tricycles, thousands of Wellington boots, 15,000 security personnel, a dedicated task force, and environmental health officers.

Greater Accra Regional Minister Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus-Glover expressed gratitude to the Ga Traditional Council for reviving the 'Keep Accra Clean' campaign and assured that the exercise will be implemented in phases, starting on July 2 in the Accra metropolitan area.

“We have mobilized resources and forged partnerships to ensure the success of the clean-up exercise,” he assured.

The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has announced that all shops and businesses in designated areas must close on July 2 for the Homowo Clean-Up exercise.

Shops to shut on July 2 for Homowo clean-up effort

The incident has deeply unsettled the church community and drawn widespread attention, with numerous videos capturing the intensity of the blaze circulating on social media.

Upon notification, firefighters from the Lagos State Fire Service and other emergency response units swiftly responded to the scene. They battled the flames diligently for several hours, managing to bring the fire under control.

Currently, the affected area has been cordoned off by the police to maintain order and facilitate investigations into the cause of the fire.

As of now, no casualties have been reported, and authorities are working to ascertain what sparked the devastating fire that has left the church and its members reeling from the aftermath.

A fire of significant proportions engulfed the Christ Embassy Church in Lagos, Nigeria, in the early hours of Sunday, June 23, 2024, resulting in substantial damage to the building and its contents.

Fire ravages Christ Embassy Church in Lagos

The incident occurred during a speech by former President John Dramani Mahama, when Nana Boakye, a student, responded to Mahama's remarks directed at NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia by shouting, "Mahama will lose." This expression of dissent reportedly led to Boakye being physically assaulted by people believed to be NDC members.

On Saturday, June 22, NPP Communications Director Richard Ahiagbah visited Nana Boakye to express his solidarity and condemnation of the attack. Ahiagbah emphasized that no Ghanaian should face such "senseless and lawless" violence for exercising their right to free speech.

“It is absolutely unacceptable for anyone to be assaulted for merely expressing their opinion,” Ahiagbah stated. “Nana Boakye did nothing wrong by disagreeing with former President Mahama. The attempt by the Ashanti NDC to downplay this issue is equally troubling.”

Ahiagbah criticized the police for their lack of action in apprehending those responsible for the assault and called for immediate law enforcement intervention. “It is deeply troubling that the police have not taken action to arrest those responsible for this vicious assault on Nana Boakye. We demand justice for him and a thorough investigation into this matter,” he asserted.

The NPP Communications Director also urged the government and relevant authorities to ensure the protection of free speech and to hold the perpetrators accountable.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called for an investigation into the alleged assault of a student at Christian Service University College (CSU) by individuals purportedly affiliated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

NPP demands investigation into alleged assault on CSU student by NDC  members

Mr. Koomson suggested that instead of selling these valuable state assets, the government should consider appointing Mr. Acheampong as the CEO to manage the hotels if he is deemed competent.

"Why do you sell national assets? Why should we sell such hotels in these prime areas? For what? For how much?" he questioned passionately. "If Bryan Acheampong can run and operate the SSNIT hotels, why don’t we employ him? Instead of selling the hotels to him, he should be appointed as CEO to run the hotels for us," he said in an interview on Joy TV

Mr. Koomson highlighted SSNIT's financial stability, emphasizing its consistent inflow of contributions and lack of capital shortages.

"SSNIT can’t complain about money because every month they need not go anywhere to go and look for a loan or whatever; the inflow from the contributions just comes in. If you are an employer and you default on payment, you’ll be in trouble. So SSNIT cannot complain of capital," he argued.

He further stressed that SSNIT is owned by the workers, with no government contributions to the fund. He called for amendments to the National Pensions Act to protect workers' assets.

Mr. Koomson had earlier criticized the leadership of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for neglecting their members' interests and expressed his reluctance to join them in meeting President Akufo-Addo to discuss this and other labor concerns. "I will not join them to meet the President because I suspect them,"

Despite SSNIT’s denial of any misconduct, TUC has insisted that the sale must be canceled for broader consultations. In May, North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa raised concerns about why SSNIT would sell 60% of its stake in the hotels to a minister of state.

Mr. Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate the transaction and has led protests against the sale. The Ghana Federation of Labour has alleged that SSNIT is proceeding with talks to sell its stake in the four hotels to Rock City Hotel, owned by Bryan Acheampong. The hotels in question are Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Beach Hotel, Royal Ridge Hotel, and Busua Beach Hotel.

Abraham Koomson, Secretary General of the Ghana Federation of Labour, has voiced strong opposition to the proposed sale of a 60% stake in four Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to Rock City Hotel, owned by the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

Appoint Bryan Acheampong as CEO of SSNIT Hotels if he's capable – Ab. Koomson

This renewed curfew, effective from Sunday, June 23, 2024, restricts movement within these areas from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am.

Nkonya and Alavanyo have been embroiled in a longstanding boundary dispute that dates back to 1923. This contentious land, rich in timber, bamboo, and cola nuts, has been a source of ongoing violence and unrest for many years.

In a particularly tragic incident in May 2022, the conflict escalated when a woman was shot and killed, and another individual was injured. In response, the Volta Regional Peace Council called for an end to reprisal killings, noting that 85 lives have been lost since 1983.

Efforts to manage and resolve the conflict have included military and police interventions, court adjudications, peacebuilding initiatives, and mediation efforts involving various stakeholders.

The Ministry of Interior, while not providing specific reasons for the curfew renewal, reiterated the importance of the ban on carrying arms, ammunition, or any offensive weapons in the affected areas.

In their statement, they warned that "any person found with arms or ammunition will be arrested and prosecuted."

The Ministry's decision underscores the ongoing need to maintain security and order in these troubled regions, as efforts continue to find a lasting resolution to the conflict.

The Ministry of Interior has renewed the curfew on the townships of Nkonya and Alavanyo, along with their surrounding areas in Ghana's Volta and Oti Regions.

Interior Ministry extends curfew on Nkonya and Alavanyo

The outspoken MP accused the Blay family of attempting to illegally acquire land belonging to Labadi Beach Hotel, a state-owned property in Accra. The family has threatened legal action, indicating that Ablakwa will soon hear from their lawyers.

Spartan Ives Limited vehemently dismissed the allegations referring to it as "false and baseless." in a letter released on June 22.

The company expressed confidence that the truth will prevail, emphasizing that they will be exonerated from these unsubstantiated claims.

"Regrettably, these false and baseless allegations made by Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa on his social media accounts and carried by several media outlets are part of a broader attempt to tarnish our reputation as a business and distract from our continued success. We are confident that the truth will prevail and that our company will be exonerated from these baseless claims."

Spartan Ives Limited clarified that it has not assumed control of the beachfront land owned by Labadi Beach Hotel, contrary to the allegations.

The company appealed to its stakeholders and the general public not to be misled by "unfounded accusations," expressing confidence in the legal process. "We urge the public and our stakeholders not to be swayed by these unfounded accusations and to trust in the legal process. Spartan Ives Limited remains committed to delivering exceptional services and upholding our values of honesty, respect, and accountability," the company stated.

Kwaw Blay, owner of Spartan Ives Limited and son of former NPP National Chairman Freddie Blay, has dismissed allegations made by the MP for North Tongu, Okudzeto Ablakwa.

Kwaw Blay asserts company's innocence against Ablakwa's allegations

Speaking on Showbiz 360, Bukom Banku reflected on his past behavior, admitting that he used to confront and fight individuals who disrespected him in his Bukom community. However, he noted that he has since repented from such actions.

The 46-year-old comedian highlighted his adherence to Muslim traditions as a key reason for abstaining from alcohol and smoking. "In my life, I have never smoked before or drank alcohol because I am Muslim," he stated.

Bukom Banku also asserted that he has never sought spiritual support, such as juju, to achieve fame. He attributed his success solely to God's influence.

"Nobody can do juju for me in this nation. Who says they've done juju for me to support my career? Never in my life. It's God. If you go for juju and you die, your children will face the consequences, and it will affect their future. Anybody who claims to have given me juju should come out and say it. My superstar status is real," he declared.

Additionally, Bukom Banku offered advice to his son, urging him to avoid distractions from women and focus on his career.

He further advised young people to concentrate on achieving success and to avoid distractions from relationships. According to him, success will naturally attract attention from women.

Bukom Banku to become Ghana’s highest paid home-based boxer after GHc 600,000 paycheck

Former Ghanaian boxer Bukom Banku has shared insights into his life principles, emphasizing that he has never smoked or consumed alcohol.

I've never smoked or consumed alcohol - Bukom Banku

Speaking at a public lecture at the Christian Service University in Kumasi, Mahama announced that the next NDC government aims to invest $3 billion in creating digital jobs, underscoring the pivotal role of technology in the nation's future.

Mahama emphasized the NDC's dedication to leveraging digital innovation to combat unemployment and stimulate economic growth. He highlighted the potential of the digital economy to offer opportunities for the youth and to position Ghana as a competitive player on the global stage.

“Our vision is to create a robust digital ecosystem that will foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation. By investing $3 billion in digital jobs, we aim to equip our young people with the skills and tools they need to thrive in the 21st-century economy,” Mahama stated.

Addressing the audience as the Guest Speaker at the university's 50th-anniversary event, Mahama introduced the "One Million Coders Programme," designed to generate additional digital jobs for the youth.

Mahama also pledged that the next NDC government would prioritize reviving the country's traditional export sector, particularly cocoa farming. He stressed the importance of providing incentives to cocoa farmers to boost exports and capitalize on improved world market prices.

“We will also increase production in our oil and gas sector. The last eight years have been wasted without one single oil well brought on stream,” Mahama lamented.

He criticized the current administration for not developing additional oil wells, especially during a global shift towards green energy.

“If we don’t bring these producers back on stream and take advantage of our oil and gas sector, the world would make the transition, and our gas and oil will become stranded assets,”

Mahama assured that his government would seek greater control over Ghana’s natural resources, moving towards processing these resources and attracting investments into farming, industry, and agribusiness. “This will increase our export potentials and bring in foreign exchange, leading to a stable currency,”

Mahama's pledge to invest in digital jobs and rejuvenate traditional sectors is expected to be a cornerstone of the NDC's campaign.

John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has unveiled an ambitious plan to revolutionize Ghana's digital economy.

Next NDC gov't to invest $3B in digital job creation - Mahama

The announcement was made during a press conference on June 17, 2024. Morocco’s ability to host the prestigious event highlights the country's extensive experience in organizing major football tournaments and its commitment to the development of the sport across the continent.

The announcement has sparked excitement among football fans throughout Africa, who eagerly anticipate a tournament that will showcase the continent's premier talent and promote a spirit of unity and competition. Teams will be looking to dethrone the current champions, Senegal, who claimed the AFCON 2023 title in Cameroon.

A variety of fan engagement activities and cultural events to run alongside the tournament, aiming to celebrate African football and heritage. These initiatives are expected to attract thousands of visitors to Morocco, providing a boost to tourism and the local economy.

With preparations underway, CAF and Morocco are collaborating closely to ensure that AFCON 2025 will be an unforgettable celebration of African football, highlighting the continent's passion, skill, and unity on the global stage.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced the dates for the Total Energies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, which will be hosted in Morocco. The tournament is scheduled to take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, marking a return to a country renowned for its passionate football culture and top-notch facilities.

CAF announces dates for Total Energies AFCON 2025 in Morocco

The FDA had laid out guidelines for the Advertisement of Alcoholic beverages by public figures which was published on February 1, 2016, stating, “No well-known personality or professional shall be used in alcoholic beverage advertising.”

The FDA explained that this guideline aims to prevent minors from being influenced by celebrities to consume alcohol.

Expressing her concerns on 3FM over the lack of proper consultation by the FDA before implementing the directive. Edjeani believes the FDA did not thoroughly consider the implications of the guidelines.

“It’s unfortunate, and I don’t understand how learned men and women could arrive at this decision. I’m not convinced it was well thought through. Who did they consult from our industry? Who did they talk to before making this decision?”

She questioned the logic behind the directive, “Advertising is still happening whether it’s by a celebrity or not. If someone wants to drink, they will drink. If they claim we’re influencing minors, they should provide proof,” she asserted.

The FDA further noted that the ban aligns with a policy by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and is part of efforts to protect children and young people from being lured into alcoholism.

A suit was filed against the FDA’s directive, arguing that it was unconstitutional and violated the right against discrimination guaranteed by Article 17 of the 1992 Constitution. The Supreme Court, in a 5-2 majority decision on Wednesday, June 19, dismissed the case and upheld the FDA’s directive.

The court ruled that the FDA's directive was neither unreasonable nor excessive, and it did not contravene any constitutional provisions.

Veteran actress Akofa Edjeani has voiced her disapproval of the recent Supreme Court ruling that upheld the Food and Drug Authority’s (FDA) directive banning celebrities from advertising alcoholic beverages.

Akofa Edjeani criticizes FDA's Alcohol Ad ban

In attendance will be the NDC Regional Executives, all MPs and PCs, the National Youth Organizer, other dignitaries and Hon.&nbsp;Haruna&nbsp;Iddrisu, who doubles as the Special Guest.

The event is anticipated to attract young individuals from diverse backgrounds including students, young professionals and community leaders.

"I humbly invite you to join us on Saturday 29th June for a Health Walk and Health Screening. This move is part of activities to help drive home the message for a 24-hour economy and building the Ghana we want,"&nbsp;Sharaf&nbsp;Mahama&nbsp;said in a statement announcing the walk and health screening.

The event, he added will provide free regular health check-ups and screening. Additionally, the health walk will foster community spirit and solidarity, allowing participants to engage with local leaders, healthcare professionals, and fellow community members, thereby promoting unity and collective effort towards common goals.

Mr.&nbsp;Mahama&nbsp;has a proven track record of similar initiatives in the areas of education and sports, which he uses as an avenue to empower young minds to do better for themselves and improve their potential.

This health walk and screening like previous events is expected to attract thousands of young people from Tamale and surrounding communities.

Sharaf Mahama holds health screening and walk in Tamale

Sharaf&nbsp;Mahama&nbsp;is set to&nbsp;organise&nbsp;a massive health walk and health screening for the teeming youth of Tamale in the Northern Region.&nbsp;

Sharaf Mahama holds health screening and walk in Tamale on June 29

The decision comes after repeated calls for action from the government, which have gone unheeded.

In a statement released on Friday, CLOGSAG expressed its frustration with the prolonged delay, highlighting the detrimental effects on its members' morale and financial well-being. The association emphasized that despite numerous engagements with relevant government agencies, there has been no significant progress in addressing their concerns.

"The Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana has resolved to embark on an indefinite strike beginning July 3, 2024, due to the government's failure to implement the agreed salary structure," the statement read. "Our members have been patient and cooperative, but it is clear that the authorities are not prioritizing our legitimate demands."

He pointed out that the government had committed to a new salary structure as part of efforts to ensure fair compensation for civil and local government staff. However, despite the agreement, the implementation has faced continuous delays without any clear justification.

"We have had several meetings and submitted numerous petitions, but there has been no concrete action from the government. This delay is unacceptable and shows a lack of respect for our members who work diligently to support the functioning of government operations,"

Bampoe Addo further noted that the strike is intended to serve as a wake-up call to the government, urging it to fulfill its promises and take immediate steps to rectify the situation.

CLOGSAG has vowed to continue its advocacy and engage with all stakeholders to ensure a resolution that addresses their concerns. The association remains hopeful that the government will heed their call and take the necessary actions to avoid the disruption of public services.

The Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG) has announced plans to commence an industrial strike on July 3, 2024, in response to delays in the implementation of their revised salary structure.

CLOGSAG threatens strike on July 3 over salary structure implementation delays

The union members, who had initiated the strike on June 17, were protesting the government's delay in addressing their service conditions.

On June 20, the National Labour Commission (NLC) intervened, directing the union to halt the industrial action and re-engage in negotiations with the government.

General Secretary of MELPWU, Dr. Cephas Akortor announced the decision to journalists in Accra on Friday. "We have resolved to put on hold the ongoing industrial action and further advise all members of the union to return to work at their various places of work by Monday, 24th June 2024, to prepare their workplaces for full operation on Tuesday, 25th June 2024," he stated.

Following this directive, the National Executive Council of MELPWU convened a meeting and unanimously agreed to suspend the strike.

Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (Guardian)

The Medical Laboratory Professional Workers Union (MELPWU) has decided to suspend its strike action.

Medical Laboratory workers halt strike

Frank Annor-Dompreh, the Member of Parliament for Nsawam Adoagyiri, had earlier claimed in Parliament that the government had disbursed GH₵80 million to support the preparation of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

However, speaking on Accra-based radio 3FM, Mr. Kapi clarified that the amount received was significantly lower.

“The document that I have received from the Finance Ministry today is a warrant for GH₵47.125 million, not GH₵80 million,” Kapi stated.

According to WAEC, the GH₵47.125 million received will only cover the immediate costs of conducting the BECE. Additional funds are required to process the results and settle outstanding debts. “We will be able to conduct the examination, but we will need more funds to process the results and pay our debtors,” Kapi explained.

As part of the pre-examination preparations, WAEC procured examination stationery, including answer booklets worth GH₵12.6 million, bond paper for printing costing GH₵48 million, and pencils valued at GH₵1.146 million.

Kapi noted that the released funds are insufficient to cover these expenses and pay examiners and supervisors.

“To avoid disrupting the academic calendar, we will proceed with the examination,” Kapi added. He emphasized that if the full amount owed to WAEC is settled, the Council can conduct the exams smoothly and clear its outstanding debts.

Recently, WAEC expressed serious concerns about the potential cancellation of the BECE scheduled for July 2024 due to severe funding challenges. The Council highlighted the government's delay in releasing the necessary funds to prepare and administer the exams.

The Head of Public Relations at the West African Examination Council (WAEC), John Kapi, has clarified that the Council has received GH₵47.125 million from the government, contrary to reports suggesting an amount of GH₵80 million.

WAEC clarifies receipt of GH₵47.12M from government, not GH₵80M

King Paluta clarified his role and intentions, aiming to set the record straight for his fans and the public. According to him his appearance on a bus with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia was purely coincidental and not politically motivated.

His participation sparked a mix of support and criticism, with many questioning his reasons for aligning with Dr. Bawumia's campaign.

He explained that he accepted an invitation to meet the Vice President out of respect for Bawumia's prominent role in the country.

"Regardless of his party affiliation, Bawumia is a significant figure and an elder in our country. Should I have ignored his invitation?" King Paluta questioned.

Addressing allegations that he received a substantial payment for his presence, King Paluta defended his actions by stating that his attendance was part of his engagements. He clarified that any compensation he received was to cover expenses such as fuel and other logistical costs associated with the event.

"My brand and services are not provided for free, given my role as an entertainer," he emphasized.

King Paluta also urged Ghanaians not to link him with any political party based on his appearance at the campaign event. He advised his fans not to be surprised if they see him at events for other political parties in the future.

‘I don’t want to brag’ – King Paluta on whether he deserves to win Artiste of the Year

Ghanaian musician King Paluta has recently addressed speculations surrounding his involvement in the political campaign of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

King Paluta addresses involvement in Bawumia’s campaign

The hospital's statement comes amid public condemnation and the initiation of an investigation by the Ghana Health Service (GHS).

The incident, which drew significant media attention, involved hospital officials allegedly abandoning the patient in a remote area because they could not identify her relatives. This sparked widespread outrage and prompted the GHS to form a five-member committee to investigate the matter.

According to a statement released by the hospital, the patient had been treated and declared fit for discharge. The hospital asserts that the patient requested to be taken to a specific location, which they complied with.

“After the necessary examinations were done, Plaster of Paris (POP) was cast on both lower limbs of the patient due to a fracture of the tibia bones. The hospital as usual took absolute responsibility for feeding, medication, and housekeeping of the patient.

“The patient had been on admission for six (6) days and was finally discharged on the 3rd of June 2024 after being declared well. The medical record is tendered in as evidence,” portions of his report highlighted.

Dr. George Kwame explained that interactions between the social welfare officer and the patient revealed that she was a resident of the Gomoa Ojobi community. This information was corroborated by the National Ambulance Service, which confirmed the location of her initial pick-up.

He added that the social welfare officers decided to return her to her community in Gomoa Ojobi. The arrangement involved the national ambulance, the social welfare officer, and a hospital staff member transporting the patient to her chosen destination.

"After the patient was declared well by the clinician and expressed a strong desire to leave the hospital, the social welfare officers agreed to send her back to Gomoa Ojobi," Dr. Kwame explained.

He further noted that the hospital ambulance, accompanied by the social welfare officer and a hospital staff member, transported the patient to her preferred destination. They ensured she was properly clothed and provided with a wheelchair for the journey.

In response to the recent outcry over an <a href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/news/local/patient-allegedly-abandoned-in-a-bush-by-the-winneba-government-hospital-dies/ndyxnnx">abandoned patient found in a bush</a> near Gomoa Ojobi, the Medical Director of Trauma and Specialist Hospital, Winneba, Dr. Prah George Kwame has clarified that the patient was declared well and discharged to her preferred destination.

Patient was declared well and discharged to preferred destination - Winneba Trauma Hospital

Mr. Ablakwa asserts that the protest aims to compel the president to stop the sale of these hotels.

Addressing the press center on Monday, June 17, Mr. Ablakwa confirmed that all arrangements for the demonstration were complete. He emphasized the expectation for a peaceful protest and assured that individuals attempting to incite chaos would be dealt with by the Ghana Police Service.

Mr. Ablakwa also mentioned that he anticipates officials from the presidency will meet the demonstrators and receive their petition for submission to the president.

The former Deputy Education Minister reiterated the importance of the demonstration in ensuring that the sale does not proceed, highlighting the urgency and significance of their cause. "We have agreed with the police on the condition that the representatives of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will walk from the Jubilee House and meet us at the Christ the King Catholic Church to receive our petition."

"We are very peaceful protestors and law-abiding as well. So we can give the Ghanaian people the full assurance that this agreement with the Ghana Police Service will be adhered to," he stated.

Mr. Ablakwa has already petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate the transaction. However, he feels compelled to take this additional step because, despite widespread opposition, information he has obtained indicates that the process to finalize the deal is still ongoing.

Therefore, he believes it is necessary to exert extra pressure on SSNIT to halt the transaction.

A demonstration led by National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, is set to take place on Tuesday, June 18, opposing the sale of four Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to Rock City Hotel Limited, a company owned by Ghana's Minister of Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

Ablakwa-led protest against SSNIT Hotels sale to proceed tomorrow

The news of her passing was announced by movie producer Stanley Nwoko, also known as Stanley Ontop, via his Instagram page.

“Nollywood actress and veteran Mrs. Stella Ikwuegbu is dead. The veteran actress left this world today after battling with leg cancer. Rest well, Madam Stella. Nollywood again. It’s well,”

Her death marks a significant loss in the Nigerian entertainment scene, where she had left an indelible mark through her talent and contributions over the years.

Stella Ikwuegbu's career spanned several decades, during which she graced the screens with her remarkable performances in numerous movies and television series. Known for her versatility and ability to portray diverse roles with finesse, she endeared herself to audiences and colleagues alike.

Her passing comes just days after the death of veteran Yoruba actor Dayo Adewunmi, also known as Sule Suebebe, who passed away at the age of 68.

Nollywood is mourning the loss of veteran actress Stella Ikwuegbu, who passed away on Sunday, June 16 after battling with leg cancer.

Veteran Nollywood actress Stella Ikwuegbu is dead

In a recent interview on Channel One TV, discussing the topic of “Ghana’s Musical Identity” Appietus, emphasized that Reggie Rockstone deserves recognition and credit for his pioneering efforts in the early 1990s. According to him, Rockstone's vision and innovation laid the foundation for a new wave of Ghanaian music that has since become a staple in the country's entertainment industry.

While hiplife legend Reggie Rockstone has insisted for years that he originated hiplife, several key personalities who contributed immensely to the genre’s growth have disputed the claim.

"Reggie Rockstone is undeniably the originator of Hiplife," Appietus stated. "He brought a unique fusion of highlife and hip-hop that resonated with the youth and created a whole new musical movement. Without Reggie's groundbreaking work, Hiplife as we know it today wouldn't exist."

Reggie Rockstone, often referred to as the "Godfather of Hiplife," released his debut album "Makaa Maka" in 1997, which was a critical and commercial success. The album featured hits like "Keep Your Eyes on the Road" and "Sweetie Sweetie," which combined traditional Ghanaian sounds with contemporary rap lyrics and beats.

Appietus also highlighted Rockstone's influence beyond music production, noting his impact on the culture and identity of Ghanaian youth. "Reggie didn't just create a genre; he gave young Ghanaians a voice and a way to express themselves. He made it cool to embrace our heritage while staying relevant in the global music scene," he said.

As Hiplife celebrates its legacy and ongoing evolution, the contributions of pioneers like Reggie Rockstone are essential in understanding the genre's roots and its impact on Ghana's cultural landscape.

Veteran Ghanaian music producer, Appietus, has reaffirmed the pivotal role of Reggie Rockstone in the creation and popularization of Hiplife, a genre that blends Ghanaian highlife music with hip-hop influences.

Reggie Rockstone is the originator of hiplife – Appietus

The former President emphasized that the current Hajj fare, set at GH¢75,000, is prohibitively expensive, preventing many ordinary Muslims from fulfilling their pilgrimage to Mecca.

Mahama made this commitment during the Eid prayers with the Ahlussuna Wal-Jamah Muslim group at the forecourt of the State House in Accra on Sunday.

"Our pilgrims are in Mecca performing the Hajj. May Allah bring them safely home to us. Those who have been able to go are the privileged ones because we have had fares at GH¢75,000," Mahama stated. "It is very difficult for the ordinary Muslim to perform the Hajj but Insha Allah, if we win in this election and come into government, we are going to work to reduce the Hajj fare so that everybody can go."

Muslims around the world celebrated the festival of Eid Adha on Sunday, commemorating the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim and his unwavering faith.

John Mahama promises to build new Black Stars dominated by home-grown players

John Dramani Mahama, the flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has pledged to reduce the cost of Hajj if he is elected President in the 2024 general elections.