PRESIDENT MILLS’ ADMINISTRATION IS CORRUPTION FREE – ALLOTEY JACOBS

The Communications Director of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Central Region, Mr Bernard Allotey Jacobs says there is no corrupt official in President Mills’ administration.
According to him, nobody has been caught in any corruption scandal adding that President Mills is doing his best to clamp down on corruption in the country.
He was reacting to former President Rawlings’ comments yesterday at a Public Lecture to mark the 30th anniversary of the 31st December Revolution.
According to Mr Rawlings, President Mills lacks the courage to fight against corruption.
But Mr Allotey Jacobs believes that President Mills’s government is corruption-free.

Commenting on the possibility of former President Rawlings joining the NDC’s campaign, Mr Allotey Jacobs says posterity will judge him if he refuse to campaign for President Mills.

MAKE POLITICAL PARTIES SIGN PEACE TREATY AHEAD OF ELECTIONS

The President of National Association of Farmers and Fishermen, Nai Kwaw Otuo VI is calling on the National Peace Council to make all political parties sign peace treaty to commit them to ensuring peace during and after the 2012 elections.
Nai Kwaw Otuo VI who is also the chief of Awutu Mankessim in the Central Region, stated that the treaty will ensure that political parties follow the laid down regulations to prevent violence as well as abide by mechanisms to ensure they check their supporters.
He explains that 2012 will be one of the highly contested elections resulting in tension therefore the need to strategize for peace to prevail.
He mentioned the political parties at the crucial group to ensure safety.

Responding to concerns over the increased spate of accident this Christmas, Nai Kwaw Otuo VI blamed indiscipline among drivers refusal to observe road regulation.

End.

PRESIDENT MILLS TO CHANGE WEAK MINISTERS

President John Evans Atta Mills has warned lackadaisical ministers to brace themselves for massive changes in his team next year as he seeks to retain power.

Speaking in an interview on Radio Gold, President Mills said the reshuffle is to get a winning team for 2012.

According to him, his government will not tolerate any apathetic attitude from any minister or appointee and would crack the whip to ensure that the NDC gets the nod for another four-year term.

Adom news desk now looks some of the ministers and government officials could be removed from government and why.
Already, the President has started flexing his muscles by relieving Benjamin Akyena Brantuo, one of government communication team members over the controversial payment of GHC58 million to Alfred Woyome.
The Education Minister Betty Mould-Iddrisu is one of the ministers who might be affected for two reasons; the education ministry has been in news over because of the computer placement fiasco. The minister herself was the Attorney-General who refused to put up a defense when Woyome went to court to demand for over GHC100 million from government. She also lost major cases when she was Attorney-General.
Health Minister, Mr Joseph Yieleh Chireh has been one of ‘busiest’ ministers; he decided to proceed on leave just when members of the Ghana Medical Association were embarking on a strike action that took this country by storm. President Mills then appointed Haruna Iddrissu to act on his behalf.
It will be a surprise to see the Deputy Minister of Interior, Kobby Acheampong still fighting the cause of ‘Better Ghana’ in 2012. The ‘no-nonsense’ minister once had a street fight with policemen for questioning him for over-speeding on the high way. He also had an open confrontation with a taxi driver.
Those were some of the ministers who, in our estimation, could face the axe in the next round of ministerial reshuffle.
But this is purely speculative.

The lessons everybody should know learn from the ‘Count of Monte Cristo’

The story of the count of Monte Cristo sometimes I think should have been documented in the Holy Book. Having watched the movie more than 10 times, I think I am in a position to discuss lessons that would learn from the movie. The story which is centered on faith, imprisonment and the act of revenge is one of the best movies I have ever watched.
It’s tells a story of a two best friends from different social class in the society. Edmond Dantes the hero is a sailor from a poor background. He could not read nor write which means he had no business befriending wealth and royal Fernando Mondego.
Indeed, Fernando had the money and wealth but he wanted one thing in addition–the girlfriend of his best friend, Mercedes. Though Dantes had no idea of his intentions, he was a good person who won favour everywhere he goes.
Edmond Dantes had just been promoted to be the chief sailor among the crew after one hectic trip to France, the decision of his promotion was disgusted by his best friend and other crew members.
His best friend who had read a letter to be delivered from Napoleon Bonaparte thought Edmond should have revealed the details of the meeting with the most wanted man to him.
Fernando then joined forces with the other crew members to betray Edmond Dantes. Not only did Fernando and his friends connived for him to sentenced to 13 year imprisonment but also took away his life-wife.
Well, he was sentenced to prison for doing nothing wrong but for him been the only person who knows the secret of the state. So he lost everything position, best friend, family, dreams and especially the woman he ever wanted.
The prison of no return-Chateau d’If was where Dantes will spend his life awaiting death and the second coming of Christ. At that point in time, the world for him was unfair and injustice for the poor.
Edmond Dantes lost faith God and everything he ever stood for. He was just waiting to die. He befriended fellow mate (priest) who was also sentenced for the wrong reasons. Over the next fifteen years the priest educates the illiterate Dantes, teaching him mathematics, literature, philosophy, economics, hand and sword combat and military strategy. He also helps Dantès discover why he himself was imprisoned.
Unfortunately, in an effort to escape prison the priest lost his life directing Edmond of the whereabout of the state fortune he had kept for the state most wanted treasure. Edmond then planed a smart way of escaping courtesy changing the robes of the dead priest with his.
His well executed escape made him recover himself and pursued to revenge all those who were behind his 15 imprisonment. Fast forward, Edmond Dantes became the Count of Monte Cristo after securing the treasure. His newly built image drew his enemies closer to him than ever. He took turn to satisfy his quest in revenging all those behind the plot against him. Finally, he married his prodigal wife and so his son after so many years.
One of the morals in that story is 'what goes around comes around'. The people who betrayed the count ended up by paying with their lives as he cleverly took his revenge on each one. Plus, the fact that the count actually really did find treasure and good friends (in the form of pirates) meant that he was a good person who attracted good people.
Regardless of the fact that the pirates could have treated him badly and even shot him when he found the treasure, they didn't, they became his friends and they benefitted from his success.

The main moral is that the bad deeds we do in life do not go unpunished and the good ones get rewarded.

PASTOR WANT TEMPORAL BAN OF POLITICANS ON RADIO

The Head pastor of Charity Missionaries Church in Tema, Rev Justice Kodua is calling on radio and television stations to temporally ban politicians during the newspaper review segment.
He explains that this would be some of the preventive measures to reduce the politics of insults and also reduce tension ahead of the 2012 elections.
Rev Justice Kodua blamed politicians and the media for the unnecessary discuss sometimes been discussed on air.
He made those statements in an interview with Adom news during the 3rd anniversary of Charity Missionaries Church.

Commenting on some of the challenges facing men of God, Rev Justice Kodua stated that women and money has been the greatest challenges in the ministry.
He therefore urge his fellow colleagues to be diligent and cautious in the last days.

PRESIDENT MILLS: I LIKE CUBA BUT I WAS IN US

President Mills has again reiterated that he has been in the United Stated States for the past three weeks as part of his compulsory annual leave.
He denied speculations that he had visited Cuba secretly to hold talks on Ghana’s Oil and gas industry.
President Mills debunk all those allegations stating that that those behind should use their fertile imagination for the benefit of the nation.
He made these comments this afternoon in an interaction with the media at the Kotoka International Airport when he arrived home from his trip.

Addressing the crowd, President Mills stated that the controversial 3 billion Dollar Chinese loan is ready and will soon flow to complete ongoing projects.

President Mills also used the occasion to wish Ghanaians a happy Christmas season.

FIRE DESTROYS BEST FARMER’S FARM

30 hectares of rice belonging to the 2011 Kintampo Best rice Farmer, Mr Emmanuel Donkor has gutted fire this afternoon.
Mr Emmanuel Donkor who doubles as a teacher at the Kintampo Senior High School narrated that he was in class when some people informed him that his rice farm is on fire.
He says his workers were absent when the unfortunate incident occurred in the early hours in afternoon.
He believes that some people in the community are behind the act.

Mr Emmanuel Donkor stated that he might quit farming because of the unfortunate situation.
He called on the government to help farmers insure their farms in order to prevent such unpredictable situations

GOVERNMENT GIVES BNI 7 DAYS ULTIMATUM TO INVESTIGATE MISSING COCAINE

Government has directed the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) to investigate the circumstances that led to a substance suspected to be cocaine and handed over to an Accra Circuit Court turning into sodium bicarbonate.
A letter signed by the Minister of Information copied to Adom news stated that the BNI has been given seven (7) days to submit its report on whether the substance handed over to the court by the Police in September 2011, and which has since been in the custody of the court, is the same substance that was later presented to the Ghana Standards Board for testing.
Mr John Tia Akologu says government remains committed to the fight against narcotics, noting that any person found to have played a role that infringes on the law in this matter will be severely dealt with in accordance with the law.

BAWUMIA RESIGNATION IS A PRIVATE MATTER

The Deputy Communication Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Perry Okudzeto says the resignation of Dr Bawumia as the country manager of the African Development Bank in Zimbabwe is a private matter.
He denied that the NPP played a role in his resignation in order to lobby for the appointment as the running mate for Nana Addo.
Dr Bawumia quit his job over the weekend possibly to lobby for another shot to partner Nana Addo.
But Perry Okudzeto insists that the resignation is private affair

Perry Okudzeto stated that Nana Addo might have nominated his running mate already and warned lobbyist to desist from influencing the choice of Nana Addo.
Meanwhile, the Youth Coordinator of NPP in the Brong Ahafo Region, Kofi Klanga has suggested that the NPP should consider Nana Gabby Nketia as the running mate to partner Nana Addo.
He made this comments in an interview with our reporter Prince Williams.

NPA DENIES LPG SHORTAGE

The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has informed the Public that there is no LPG shortage.

The Executive Director of the NPA, Alex Mould says there are currently over 4,000 metric tons stock of LPG at TOR.

He confirmed that Fuel Trade has will deliver over 7,000 metric tons LPG to TOR by this Wednesday, 14th Dec 2011
Alex Mould was reacting to numerous reports that there is been shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in Sunyani, Kumasi and some parts of Accra.

But he stated that NPA is working with the LPGas and Oil Marketing Companies who sell directly to the Public to ensure that any shortfalls in any location are addressed.

HUSBAND DEMAND RELEASE OF WIFE

Husband of the Ghanaian nurse in the UK, Gloria Dwomoh who is facing jail sentence says his counsel have filed for the release of his wife.
Mr Ekuamoah Frimpong Gyamfi stated that health expert were not able to give evidence that force feeding was the cause of the child birth.
He disclosed that the mother was not with the child at the time of his death. He added that he was the one feeding the child in the hospital prior to the death.
Madame Gloria Dwomoh was convicted of force-feeding her baby daughter until she died. She was found guilty of causing or allowing the death of 10-month-old baby.
But his husband believes that his wife is innocent and that he will make sure his wife is released.

GHANA SHOULD TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OBAMA’S ‘NO AID TO AFRICA’

The Executive Director for the Centre for Policy Analysis (CEPA) Dr Joe Abbey says Ghana should take advantage of the threats by President Obama and Prime Minister David Cameroon not to grant foreign aid to countries who does not respect the rights of gays.
He explains that Ghana should start depending on her own resources in development so that foreign aid will longer be a threat to government.
Dr Joe Abbey advise Ghanaians not to pounce insults on those countries but to strategize to improve on the local revenue to support the economy.
He stress that other countries have been able to develop without or little dependence on foreign aid.

IMANI RELEASES 2011 WORST INSTITUTIONS

IMANI Ghana has published the list of worst performing public institutions in 2011. The Ghana Education Service topped the lists for exhibiting weaknesses in transparency, and handling of the computerized school selection and placement.
Second on the list is the National Lottery Authority -for killing off the private lottery industry in Ghana, thereby reducing total jobs in the sector.
The Fair Wages and Salary Commission came third for the mismanagement of labour issues during the year.
Fourth is The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions – of the Ministry of Justice for delayed in justice delivery in the country.
Fifth is National Youth Council –For poor progress in defining a winning blueprint for youth development in Ghana. This is the third time IMANI Ghana is publishing such a report.
Kofi Bentil is the Vice President of IMANI Ghana; he says the list is a wakeup call to public institutions to improve their performance.

NDC KONKOMBA YOUTH THREATENS DEMO OVER PARTY BETRAYAL

A group in the National Democratic Congress (NDC), called the Concerned NDC Youth of Konkomba Yam Market has threatened to demonstrate against what they describe as betrayal and disowning by the ruling party.
According to executives of the group, no party or government official has made any move to show appreciation or recognise their efforts in helping the NDC to win the 2008 elections.
They agitated youth, who say they will demonstrate on December 15; tell Adom News that they have not benefitted from the numerous employment opportunities that are mentioned in propaganda messages.
Yakubu Usama is a member and he alleges that they have been neglected by the party.

Meanwhile, efforts to get executive members of the NDC to react to the story proved futile as they were locked up in a meeting during press time.

NDC ADMITS INTERFERENCE IN DAGBON CRISIS

The Central Regional Communications Director of the NDC, Mr Allotey Jacobs has admitted that the NDC and the NPP should be held responsible for the Dagbon crisis.
He stated that the two political parties have taken sides in the Dagbon crisis making it difficult for mediators to find solutions to the problem.
He was reacting to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s comments over the weekend that the situation in Dagbon has remained volatile because politicians have fuelled factionalism between the feuding parties.

Deputy Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Curtis Perry Okudzeto also admitted that polarization of the issue has made it difficult for quick solutions.
He however says the NPP cannot be blamed for interference in the Dagbon Crisis.
He stated that during the NPP’s tenure of office, they put in place all the necessary measures to help solve the issue.
Curtis Perry Okudzeto rather blamed President Mills and the NDC for politicizing the Dagbon crisis by making it a campaign promise that they will find a lasting solution if they were voted into power in the run-up to the 2008 elections.

NPP WILL ANNOUNCE RUNNING MATE EARLY NEXT YEAR

Deputy Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Curtis Perry Okudzeto says the party will announce a running mate for its flagbearer early next year.
He cautioned that the executives of the NPP will not engage in unnecessary debate surrounding the appointment since the time is not yet right for flagbearer, Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo to appoint a running mate.
He denied that a meeting has been held to select Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who was the running mate for Nana Akufo-Addo in the 2008 elections as running mate again for the 2012 elections.
Mr. Okudzeto stated that no one can come out with a name apart from Nana Akufo Addo.

Mr. Okudzeto also warned lobbyists to desist from making statements that will hinder the chances of the party in 2012.

POLITICIANS CANNOT BE TAKEN OUT IN SOLVING DAGBON CRISIS

The Central Regional Communications Director of the NDC, Mr Allotey Jacobs says though politicians are to be held responsible for the Dagbon crisis, Politicians cannot be taken out of solving the crisis.
He stated that the two families, Abudu’s and Andani’s belong to either the NPP or the NDC so it very difficult to take out the politicians in trying to solve the issue.
He was reacting to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s comments over the weekend that the situation in Dagbon has remained volatile because politicians have fuelled factionalism between the feuding parties.
But Allotey Jacobs maintain that politicians cannot be erased in the Dagbon crisis solution

Deputy Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Curtis Perry Okudzeto maintained that the NPP have not polarized the issue but finding solutions to it

YOUTH URGE TO MAINTAIN THEIR VIRGINITY

The Executive Director of Positive Mindset International an NGO, Evangelist Albert Forson has advised the youth to maintain their virginity till they get married.
He stated that that it’s honorable and dignified for any child to remain chaste before getting married. He added that indulging in sexual activity will make them loose focus in life.
Evangelist Albert Forson gave this advice to the youth when he visited some schools and youth centres in the Greater Accra region ahead of the Christmas celebration which some youth engage in sexual activities.

Evangelist Albert Forson also cautioned parents to make extra time with their children.
He explains that the lack of parental control and censorship will negatively affect the children.

GHANA FEDERATION OF DEAF NEGLECTED IN YELLOW FEVER AWARENESS

The Ghana National Federation for the Deaf has expressed their disappointment in government for neglecting them in the awareness creation during the yellow fever vaccination week.
The Media Coordinator of the Federation, Mr Oti Mensah Essilfie says government should have strategized to inform the deaf and dump and as a result most of the physically challenged have since not been injected with the yellow fever vaccine.

Meanwhile, the Director in Charge of the Yellow Fever Vaccination, Dr. Antwi Adjei says special arrangements have been made for the physically challenged to get vaccinated after the main national one.
He therefore urged them to take advantage of the special arrangement and get vaccinated.

DIDEYE READY TO CONQUER AFRAM PLAINS PRIMARIES

The NDC Member of Parliament for Afram Plains North, Emmanuel Aboagye Didieye says he the fact that 6 people are contesting him for the parliamentary primaries seat does not mean that he is a total failure as been speculated.
He explains that he has dutifully performed his role as a representative of the area and believes that the people still holds confident in him.
Speaking to Adom news, Mr Emmanuel Didieye says he is not worried that some constituency executives are sponsoring some of the aspiring candidates against him.

Emmanuel Aboagye Didieye stated that those who are still using his controversial statement that 80 per cent of the MPS are womanizers as their campaign will fail.
He stated that his fans and the people of Afram Plain still believe he is the right candidate for them.

NO PARTY CAN WITHDRAW CRIMINAL CASE FROM COURT

Legal Expert, Lawyer Kwame Boateng says no individual or group of people can withdraw a criminal case from court.
He explains that first degree crimes such as Sodomy, Armed Robbery, and Murder cannot be withdrawn from court even if the complainant decides not to take interest in the case.
Lawyer Kwame Boateng was reacting to the arrest of Lance Corporal Raymond Ametepe a Prisons Officer at the Akuse Police Station, who allegedly sodomized three boys.
The matter is now in court, but the parents of the boys who are on record as complainants are said to be putting pressure on the police to withdraw the case from court.
But Lawyer Kwame Boateng says criminal matters cannot be withdrawn from court by an individual, because it is a matter between the state and the accused.

Lawyer Kwame Boateng says even if the victims and complainants are no more interested in the court case, the court has a power to summon them as witnesses to assist in investigations.
He explains that one will be committing contempt of court if he/she refuses to testify in court.

DCE AND MORNING SHOW HOST CLASH IN STUDIOS

The District Chief Executive for Atwima Kwanwoma in the Ashanti Region, Anthony Nyame has labeled the host of Fox fm morning show as ‘a bully on the programme’.
He explains that that Captain Smart has been misinterpreting his words on air in other to paint him dark to the public.
Anthony Nyame says Captain Smart told him that he is a ‘Villager’ on air during the heated debate that he has physically assaulted his house boy.
The DCE was explaining why he walked off from the studios of Fox fm during the morning show on Dwaso Nsem.

Reacting to the allegation, Captain Smart denied allegations that he insulted the DCE on air.
He narrated that Mr Anthony Nyame received a call during the discussion and after he walked in back to the studios he became furious against him.
Captain Smart recalled that the DCE accuse him for bring the houseboy to the studio to testify against him thereby rising insults against him.
He says Anthony Nyame bodyguard brutalizes the security men at Fox fm before walking out.

4 YEAR SHS RESULTS WAS BETTER BUT 3 YEARS IS THE BEST

The Minister of Education, Mrs Betty Mould Iddrisu has acknowledged that students who completed the 4 year system did far better than those who completed the 3- year SHS however has insisted this would not force government to go back to the NPP policy.
She said it is very clear that the ministry has been overwhelmed by the bad policies of the NPP administration which introduced the 4-year SHS system but failed to provide the necessary infrastructure to support the system.
Speaking to Adom Dwaso Nsem this morning, the sector minister insisted that government after meeting with stakeholders is convinced of the 3years.
Mrs Betty Mould could not understand why Ghana should have a 4 year system when all the other countries in the sub-region have 3years.

Betty Mould Iddrisu blamed the New Patriotic Party the current problems in the education sector.
She said the currently the Ministry is working on 65 dormitories which are on completion period.

Reacting to the comments, the then educational minister Professor Dominic Fobih stated the education minister Betty Mould do not understand the system before making any comments on the 4 year system.
He says the NPP provided the entire necessary infrastructure for the smooth take off of the 4 year system.

PROPHET ANAMOH DENIES ONE TERM FOR PRESIDENT MILLS

The personal Assistant of Prophet Peter Anamoh, Prophet Victor Akyoba has denied speculations that Prophet Anamoh stated that President Mills will not see the end of this first term in office.
He explains that the entire rumor about that story is untrue and blamed the media for causing unnecessary unrest in the country.
After the failure of his doomsday prophecy, Prophet Anamoh was said to have prophesied about Ghana’s political future, and suggested that President Mill will not finish his term in office.
When Adom News reached him for his comments he promised to let the details out on Friday.

But when Adom News called his phone today, his personal assistant, Prophet Victor Akyoba picked the phone and said the earlier reports were not true and that Prophet Anamoh will speak on the matter at the right time.

JOURNALISTS TO EMBARK ON DEMO OVER ROAD CONSTRUCTION

The Network of Journalists for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Africa (PROMOAFRICA) has planned a demonstration on the Tuesday 29th November 2011 against the absence of accessibility for persons with disability on the new foot bridges being constructed from Tetteh Quarshie round about to Mallam junction
The Executive secretary of the PROMOAFRICA Mariam Narkoah Amponsah indicates that the concerns of persons with disabilities and the aged were not taken into consideration in the construction of the bridges.
She says the group will like to draw Governments attention to the failure on its commitment to ensure the persons with disabilities are able to use footbridges.
Mariam Amponsah appealed to President John Atta Mills and the Minister of Roads and Highways to take urgent steps to correct the anomalies and factor in the concerns of persons with disabilities in future development.
Sources at the Road and Highway Ministry indicate that there is a blueprint for disabled.
According to a reliable source, the journalist did not consult the Ministry over the issue.

JOURNALISTS QUESTION MEDIA DEVELOPMENT FUND BUDGET

Some journalists have questioned the implementation of the government GH¢1 million establishment of the Media Development Fund at improving the professional output.

According to the Managing Editor of the Daily searchlight, Ken Kurankyi the idea is very good but the implementation might not be sincere.

He thinks that the government has already labeled some media houses as anti-government and that there might be biases in the distribution of the fund.


Adom fm News editor, Samuel Nii Narku lauded the idea but questioned the custodian of the fund which is the National Media Commission.

He explains that the National Media Commission has not been given the teeth to bite, therefore they may face some challenges in the distribution of the fund.

Nii Narku also question the timing of the media fund stating that the time rise suspicions especially when elections are to be held next year.

GOVERNMENT ALLOCATES GHC32 BILLION FOR POVERTY REDUCTION

The Finance Minister, Dr Kwabena Duffour says the government plans to reduce poverty by increasing funds allocation to GHC3.2 billion.

He says the amount is intended to support basic education, primary health care, poverty-focused agriculture, rural water, feeder roads, and rural electrification.

Dr Duffour stated that during the year 2011, a total of GH₵2.9 billion was spent on poverty reduction programmes and projects.

He revealed that Government has released an amount of GH¢30.0 million to the Savanna Accelerated Development Authority (SADA) for the implementation of its work programme in 2012.

The Finance Minister, Dr Kwabena Duffour says government will source funding to complete the 4,720 Government Affordable Housing Projects at Borteyman, Kpone, Koforidua, Asokore-Mampong, Tamale and Wa.

He explains that the move is to reassure the public that government has not abandoned the affordable housing projects started by the NPP government.

The Minister says Government will also provide 4,000 new boreholes countrywide in fulfillment of its promise of providing 20,000 boreholes over the next 5 years.

Dr Duffour says for the implementation of these programmes and activities, the Water Resources, Works and Housing Ministry has been allocated an amount of GH¢283,176,014.00

Over 29,000 ghost names on government payroll

Finance Minister Dr. Kwabena Duffuor says more than 29,000 employees on government’s payroll cannot be accounted for.
This came to light in a biometric registration process of all pensioners and public sector employees in at least five regions of the country.
This was revealed by the Finance Minister in his presentation of the fourth budget statement under the theme: "Infrastructure development and accelerated growth and job creation."
The revelation comes at a time when public sector wage bill has shot up under the implementation of the Single Spine Salary Structure.
The minister reiterated government’s commitment to implement fully the Single Spine policy and address the distortions in public wages despite its huge expenditure on the consolidated fund.
He says so far the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission had migrated 55 major public service institutions onto the single spine salary structure.
The minister says even though the migration exercise has resulted in a significant increase in the public sector wage bill, posing serious risks to fiscal sustainability, government is fully committed to the full implementation of the SSSS.

Kwabena Duffour stated that in 2012, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission will collaborate with the Management Development and Productivity Institute to undertake a productivity survey that will help to establish the linkage of public sector pay to productivity.

MENTAL HEALTH SOCIETY WANTS CURED ‘LUNATICS’ TO VOTE

The Mental Health Society of Ghana has petition the Electoral Commission to allow cured mentally challenged patients to participate in electoral processes.
The Head of the Accra Psychiatric Hospital, Dr Akwasi Osei stated that there are about 600 cured patients at the hospital but due to family neglect they have been stranded at the hospital.
He explains that those cured patients at the hospital should be allowed to vote because the doctors have confirmed them fit.
Dr Osei says although the EC were not ready to allow such a move, they believe with time the EC will study it and give them a feedback.

Meanwhile, a legal expert Lawyer Osei Kwadwo believes that constitutionally the cured mentally challenged patients should be allowed to vote.
He said so far as they are declared fit by the doctors, then they should be allowed to vote.

NDC YOUTH WANTS EXPLANATION FROM PRESIDENT MILLS FOR SACKING MCE

The NDC youth in Asante Akim North have given 2 week ultimatum to President Mills to come out with reasons for dismissing the MCE of the area Thomas Osei Bonsu.
According to the concern NDC youth, Thomas Osei Bonsu has done tremendously well since the step into office but do not understand why the President Mills dismissed him.
It could be recalled that President Mills last Friday sacked 4 MDCEs which includes Thomas Osei Bonsu without any assigned reasons.
In a Press Conference, the spokesperson of the youth Paul Kwakye stated that the MCE have been able to intervene in the ongoing crisis between the Agogo citizens and the Fulani herdsmen.
Paul Kwakye accused some unnamed high profile persons who have cattle in Agogo for deliberately causing the dismissal of the MCE.
The youth speaking to our reporter Adu Gyamfi of Virgin City Radio called on President Mills to come with explanations for the dismissal or they will not vote for the party in the 2012 elections.

GES URGE PARENTS TO REPORT EXTORTING HEADMASTERS TO DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION

The Deputy Director at the Ghana Education Service, Mr Stephen Adu has urged parents and guardians to report head teachers who extort items from them before admission to the SHS to their various regional education directors.
He explains that head teachers cannot demand items that parents cannot readily provide before giving their wards admission.
Mr Stephen Adu appealed to the various heads of the various SHS to hold PTA meetings to decide what parents need to provide.
Mr Stephen Adu was reacting to parents’ frustrations over heads of SHSs demanding paints and bags of cement from the fresh students, which to them is an indirect robbery.

Meanwhile, the President of Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary School (CHASS), Mr Samuel Ofori Adjei has urged parents to seek for explanation if school authorities demand items they don’t understand.
Mr. Samuel Ofori Adjei stated there is need for thorough investigations to be conducted to bring out some head teachers who take huge items from SHS entrants.

AKUFO-ADDO DENIES DAILY POST STORY

The Office of Nana Akufo-Addo has denied Daily Post story that Nana Addo refused to subject himself to checks at the Kotoka International Airport.

According to the Press Secretary of Nana Addo, Herbert Krapa the story is baked to assassinate the character of their Flagbearer.

He stated that Nana Addo went through all the checks at the airport before emplaning to UK.

He says the NPP neither asks for an apology nor retraction from a paper and to avoid unfair partisan politics.

Herbert Krapa also appealed to the general public to ignore the false story for what it is not worth.

GOVERNMENT TO ALLOW PRISONERS TO VOTE IN 2012 ELECTIONS

President John Evans Ata Mills says government will implement the Supreme Court directive to allow prisoners the right to exercise their voting right during national elections.
He stated that his government will support the Electoral Commission to enable them put in place the necessary facilities to give prisoners the opportunity to exercise their rights.
President Mills made the promise when he commissioned the Ankaful Maximum Security Prison, which has space to house 2,000 inmates.
The President also cut sod for the second phase of the project meant to house the training workshops, a chapel and a mosque.
CUE: PRESIDENT MILLS AT ANKAFUL PRISON
President Mills also lauded the Kufuor Administration for its contribution to the completion of the prison.

The Interior Minister, Benjamin Kumbour stated that the construction of the prison will help ease congestion at the various prisons.
He challenged the Ghana Prison Service to respect the human rights of prisons in line with UN Human Rights Charter.
The Acting Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, Mr. Michael Kofi Bansah says officers have already been transferred to the new prison to oversee the intake of prisoners.
Mr Bansah assures the public that the Ghana Prisons Service will respect and uphold the rights of the prisoners.
END.

GHANAIANS SHOULD NOT BE IN A HURRY TO CONDEMN DAVID CAMERON-MP

GHANAIANS SHOULD NOT BE IN A HURRY TO CONDEMN DAVID CAMERON-MP
01.10.2011 SAM
The Member of Parliament for Ashanti Akyem South, Gifty Ohene Konadu says Ghanaians should not be in a hurry to condemn British Prime Minister, David Cameroon for his position on anti-gay countries.
David Cameron, in a recent interview with BBC threatened to cut aid to anti-gay countries, adding that nations receiving UK aid should "adhere to proper human rights.”
The British Premier has since been described in very derogatory terms by Ghanaians.
But Mrs Gifty Konadu calls on Ghanaians to look at the merits and the demerits of the issue before making judgment.

Meanwhile, other MPs totally condemn the statement by British Prime Minister.
Subin MP Isaac Osei, Catherine Afeku of Evalue-Gwira and Hamadu Sorogho of Madina-Abokobi constituencies condemned the statement.

HEADMASTERS TO INCREASE THE HOURS FOR FIRST YEARS’

The President of Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools-CHASS, Samuel Ofori-Adjei says they will increase the time table for first years’ in the second term in other to make way for the completion of the syllabus.
Mr Samuel Ofori-Adjei stated that there will have to increase the time table for the first year’s for one more hour.
He made these statements after the various heads of Secondary High Schools held a meeting to discuss how to complete the syllabus for the first years.

Earlier, the deputy director general of the Ghana Education Sevice, Stephen Adu says the academic calendar will not be change.
He urges authorities to increase the hours for the first years.

ENGINEER BLAMES HUMAN ACTIVITIES FOR FLOODS

The Ga south Municipal Engineer, Emmanuel Anderson said human activities accounts for the perennial flooding.
He noted that hawkers at the Kasoa toll booth have displayed plastic waste on the stretch of the road which runs through the Weija Lake.
Mr. Anderson said the Ga south have made several attempts to eject these hawkers, but people have accused the assembly for being insensitive.

Emmanuel Anderson denied that some high ranking engineers give permission for the construction of homes on flood prone areas.
He said the some people do not rather listen to the advice of engineers when they consult them.

Meanwhile, an Officer at the Ghana Meteorological Services, Kafui Quashiega said the rains will continue till November 5, but was quick to say the coming weeks will not be heavier than what occurred two days ago.
He added that active part of the rains has been shifted to the Western Region.

LACK OF LAW ENFORCEMENT IS THE CAUSE OF FLOOD- NCC BOSS

According to the Deputy Chairperson for National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Mrs. Augustina Akumaning says the lack of law enforcement in the country has been identified as one of the reasons for the perennial flooding in the nation’s capital
She said people build on water logged areas without considering the implication of their action.
She noted that people do not have regard for the laws of the land, irrespective of their social and political status and this has compounded serious environmental problem for the country.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mrs. Akumaning said this annual flooding situation can be prevented if people amend their ways towards the environment.

Mrs. Augustina Akumaning therefore called for re-establishment of community watchdog committee to protect the environment from being polluted.
She maintained that McCarthy Hill to Nyanyano and its environs have been identified as earthquake prone zone, yet people have built houses in these areas without considering the safety of these buildings.

EX-PRESIDENTS STILL HAVE KEYS TO OFFICIAL MANSIONS- ABLAKWA

EX-PRESIDENTS STILL HAVE KEYS TO OFFICIAL MANSIONS- ABLAKWA
25.10.2011 SAM
Deputy Minister for Information, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disclosed that despite the refusal of ex-Presidents John Kufuor and Jerry John Rawlings to accept the Trassaco Valley houses that was offered to them, the two have refused to return the keys.
He told Adom News that until the keys to the houses are returned, government will assume the houses are being occupied.
He however indicated that government is waiting for the two heads to officially write to them to communicate why they have refused to accept it.

When when Adom News spoke the spokesperson of former president Kuffour he acknowledged that they have not yet officially communicated to them.
On whether the key remains in their possession or not, Mr. Agyekum said the office of the former president will deal with the issue when the time comes.
Mr Frank Agyekum says the office of former President Kufour is not going public about the issue but then they will make their next move known to the people at the right time.
Meanwhile, Some Ghanaians have expressed their views on a suggestion by President Mills for the immediate scrapping of the current arrangement which requires the state to build houses for past presidents of the country after they have served their term.

President Mills suggested that instead, rent allowances be paid to former Presidents to cater for their accommodation for the rest of their lives.

POLICE PREDICT SECURITY CHALLENGES AHEAD OF CHRISTMAS

The efforts of the Police administration to resource the service in order to assist them to protect the lives of the people is continuously being thwarted by some unpatriotic citizens.
The Tema Police MTTU has become the latest victim of such unpatriotic act by some people. For the second time in two months, reckless drivers have smashed two brand new patrol vehicles preventing officers from undergoing their normal operations.
District Commander, Superintendent Daniel Dankyi told Adom News that in all those cases the drivers were reckless and caused considerable damage to the cars.
He explains that this will make their operations difficult.
Whiles he was speaking to Adom News, Superintendent Dankyi said their latest car; donated by the Tema Metropolitan assembly had been smashed just this morning by another reckless driver. With Christmas just around the corner, where road users need reminders on road regulation, the police say this will be a major challenge.

IT’S BETTER TO BUILD FOR EX-PRESIDENTS- DR AKOM

The Head of governance and leadership at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Dr Kwaku Akom says it will profit the nation if former Presidents residents are built rather than been rented out.
He says it will cost the nation hundreds of cedis if government decides to rent out apartments for ex-presidents.
Dr Kwaku Akom was reacting to a suggestion proposed by President Mills for the immediate scrapping of the current arrangement which makes the state to build houses for Presidents of the country after they have served their tenure.

President Mills suggested that rent allowances be paid to former Presidents to cater for their accommodation, beginning from the end of his tenure.

The President made the proposal to the Professor Ewurama Addy Committee to deal with article 71 office holders.
But Dr Akom thinks that the security of the former President is at risk if their apartments are rented.

Meanwhile, A research fellow at IMANI Ghana, Kofi Bentil says it’s not for the President to make such suggestions but the people of Ghana to make that decision.
He stated that the committee should be left along to do their work.

You Cant Keep A Good Man Down!

Hello and Praise the Lord, !

Have you ever fallen down? Maybe you were learning to ride a bike. Maybe you were running and stumbled. Maybe you were walking in the woods and tripped over a rock or a tree root. Depending on the situation you were in, it probably did not feel very good to you. It was probably unexpected. You may have even gotten some bumps and bruises from the impact of the fall. If others saw you fall, it may have even been quite embarrassing. It probably wasn't something that you would tweet about or announce on Facebook. We have all experienced a fall of some magnitude in our lives. We have all been there. Chances are pretty good too, that in the very near future, we might experience another unexpected fall. It happens. It's life. But we get back up again.

It also happens in our spiritual lives as well. We all make mistakes. Whether you are a Pastor, Sunday School teacher, usher, secretary, musician, mow the church lawn, balance the church's bank account, clean the baptismal, or run sound, we all fall down. It doesn't feel good, either. It's usually an unexpected fall. Sometimes, others see us in this fallen state and it can be embarrassing. It's not something we want everyone to know about. We have all been there, and chances are, if God tarries, we will fall again. It happens. It's life. But, We have to get back up again.

The enemy would love for us to stay down and discouraged. The Devil loves to see God’s children down and discouraged. He loves to see us make mistakes. He cherishes the moments that we fall flat on our faces over traps he has laid in our paths. However, not only does he love to see us fall, his ultimate goal is for us to stay down. When we finally throw in the towel and give it all up. When it seems we have no more strength to fight anymore. When we are ready to stop preaching the Bible and its Truths. The Devil loves this season of our life. However, the Bible says;

"Rejoice not against me oh mine enemy, when I fall I shall arise.." (Micah 7:8)

Not "if" I fall, or maybe, or I might, but WHEN. It's inevitable. It's going to happen. But when it does happen, how are we going to respond?

Rev. David Kent has recently contributed 19 brand new messages to Preachit.org. One of his latest messages is such a wonderful insight into this very subject. His message, entitled "You Can't Keep A Good Man Down," addresses this very subject.

He writes about three different people's perspectives at the cross. It was their darkest hour. One of them was Mary.

"Mary went to see Jesus while it was still dark. That’s when we need to seek Him as well. When you think about it, things could not have been any more discouraging for the disciples. They had followed Jesus for more than 3 years, seen the miracles, heard His teaching, but now He had been tried and crucified. He was dead and had been buried in a tomb. All their hopes and dreams had been dashed. It must have been a very dark time. But Mary went to seek Jesus while it was still so dark, before there was even a glimmer of light or the slightest ray of hope."

It would have been easy for Mary to just give up. It would have been easy for the disciples to deny everything they had lived for and turn their backs on Jesus. After all, they saw Him crucified Him on a cross! But, they remembered a promise that He had made to them! And although He had been crucified, the Devil couldn’t keep this good man down!

In this message, there are 2,257 words. If you are in the "Fall" season of your life right now, you will want to read every one of these words from Rev. David Kent. They will transform your life and your way of thinking and help you to encourage others to get back up again!

NDC YOUTH GROUP CALL ON PRESIDENT TO BE A SYMBOL OF UNITY

The Youth for Leadership (YLF) in the National Democratic Congress is calling on President Mills to take up the challenge in unifying the party.
The group believes that since President Mills is the leader of the party he should lead in the patching up differences in the party.
Speaking to Adom news, the National Chairman of the YFL, Kizito Akuadago says they believe that when unifying of the party is done it will secure the entire party behind him as they elections 2012 gets closer.
Mr Kizito Akuadago was reacting to the recent debate whether former President is the founder of the party or not.
He explains that since NDC was formed in the ideas of Mr Rawlings it will natural that they give him the respect as the leader of the party.
He charge on leading members of the NDC to stay away from the debate but channel their effort in unifying the party.

DIDIEYE RUBBISHES AFRICAN WATCH GRADINGS

The Member of Parliament for Afram Plains North, Mr. Emmanuel Aboagye Didieye has rubbished the African Watch Magazine’s grading of the MPs and governmental appointees performances.
He says the African Watch Magazine is not qualified to grade MPs because they do not know the duties of MPs.
Mr. Didieye says the people of Ghana are the best people to judge the MPs and not an independent body from the US.
Mr Emmanuel Didieye who got ‘F’ in the ratings stated that the US Magazine just want to sell their paper in Ghana.
Emmanuel Didieye urged Parliament to institute a law to ban international media for passing judgment in the Political administration in the country.
He says these measures will prevent the African Watch Magazine to pass judgment on African politicians.

END

GADDAFI’S DEATH WILL AFFECT AFRICAN UNITY

A lecturer at the Legon Centre for International Affairs, Mr Vladimir Antwi Danso says the death of the late Libyan Leader Muammur Gaddafi will negatively affect the unity of the African Union.
He explains that until his death, Gaddafi was a symbol of African unity, urging member states to unite for the development of the continent.

Mr Vladimir Antwi Danso blamed the West for plotting the defeat of the late leader while hitting out at some leaders who he said associate themselves with the West rather than collaborating with their African colleagues.

Meanwhile, about 200 Ghanaians Returnees from Libya, who are resident in the Brong Ahafo Region, are holding a grand funeral to mourn Gaddafi in Sunyani.
The Spokesperson of the Ghanaian Returnees from Libya, Thomas Kofi Twum says they don’t believe killing Gaddafi was the solution to ending the crisis in Libya.

GOVERNMENT NOT SURE WHEN DOCTORS WILL RESUME STRIKE-MINISTER

The Deputy Minister of Health, Rojo Mettle Nunoo says government does not know when the doctors will resume from their strike action.
He stated that the council of state cannot interfere with the work of the National Labour Commission on the doctor’s strike.
He explains that the meeting held between the Ghana Medical Association and the council of state did not necessary a means to end doctors’ strike action.
Rojo Mettle Nuuno says the government will allow the Labour commission and the fair wages Commission act on behalf of government in address the issue.
He says it’s about time people allow institutions to work in the country.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Minister says plans are far advance to restore the Tema General Hospital Maternity Ward.
Rojo Mettle Nunoo stated that accommodation facilities have been provided for the doctors who are waiting for final process to be posted to the Hospital.

GOVERNMENT REFUSES TO REACT TO KUFOUR’S OFFICE SAGA

The Deputy Minister of Information, Baba Jamal says government has no reaction to the rejection of estate houses by the two former presidents at Trassaco Valley.
Baba Jamal said government would rather keep quiet about the issue than make a ‘bid deal’ of it.
He was reacting to public sentiments that government may have attempted to bribe the former presidents with the property instead of fully implementing the Chinery-Hesse Committee Report.
Spokesperson for Mr Kufour, Frank Agyekum had disclosed that Mr. Kufour was not fully informed about it until he received the keys.
Mr. Agyekum noted that the office of the former president will officially write to the government on this position by close of the week.

GOVERNMENT CALLS ON RETIRE MEDICAL DOCTORS TO HELP SAVE LIVES

Government is calling on retired medical doctors to take up temporary appointments at the various referral hospitals to help save lives.
Deputy Health Minister Rojo Mettle-Nunoo says the arrangement is one of the interventions government is making to ensure at least emergency cases are attended to as negotiations with the striking doctors continue.
He says all retired doctors who wish to take up the temporary job offer should contact the chief executives of the various hospitals for the necessary arrangements.

Meanwhile, the former Head of the Korle-Bu Cardiothoracic Center, Professor Kwabena Frimpong Boateng, who was recently forced into resignation from government service, says he is ready to serve the nation if government calls upon him.
Prof. Frimpong Boateng says he is not in favour of strike actions.

Meanwhile the Council of State will meet Executives of Ghana Medical Association to address the issues that led to the strike.

MP BODYGUARD SHOT NDC YOUTH MEMBER

The bodyguard of the Member of Parliament for Jaman North, Alex Asum Ahensah allegedly shot a member of an NDC youth group called 37 parliament.
Adom News Correspondent Prince Williams of Ark FM reports that the incident occurred when the members of the 37 parliament group had gone to witness the handing over of motor bicycles to the district.

Meanwhile, the Regional Crime Officer at Berekum Emmanuel Isaaka confirms the incident to Adom news and stated that investigations have begun into the matter.

MP PLEADS FOR HIS LIFE

The Member of Parliament of Bia, Micheal Coffie has called on his people to remain calm after two district in the area warned him not to step foot in the town for lobbying for the new capital to be his interest.
Mr Micheal Coffie stated that the decision to award Bia as the new district was base on assessment at the cabinet level and not his plot.

The Omanhene and people of Lower Denkyira in the Central Region have held jubilation over the new demarcation of districts.
According to the jubilant people, they are happy to have been separated from Twifo and Heman districts which were previously together as one district.
The Omanhene of Lower Denkyira, Nana Amoah Sesriku III stated that the new creation of district in the region will help decentralized development in the area.

Elsewhere in Juaboso, people in Asempaneye have agitated against the NDC for neglecting them the district capital.
The people have vowed not to vote for the party if that decision is not rescind.

NEW STAR SHS STUDENTS ON RAMPAGE AFTER DIRECTOR FAILURE TO REGISTER THE SCHOOL FOR FINAL EXAMS

Students of New Star Educational Institute Schools in Achimota and Sowutuom are on rampage demanding explanation why authorities told them they could not register them for the WASCE Exams.
According to the final year students, the school authorities did not explains why they cannot registrar them.
Some of the angry final year students spoke to Adom news

Meanwhile, the Director of New Star Educational Institute Schools Fred Mensah says WAEC did not give them the permission to write the June WASSCE exams but the NOV/DEC exams.
Mr Mensah says this directive did not go well with the parents as well as students which made them destroy some of the school properties.

DOCTORS TO STRIKE FOR A YEAR IF GOVERNMENT NEGOTIATIONS FAIL-GMA

The strike action embarked upon by doctors of the Ghana Medical Association continues as the doctors have refused to listen to appeals from the Health ministry resume work.
Assistant General Secretary for Ghana Medical Association, Dr. Frank Serebour hinted that the strike action may extend to a year if the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission continue in the same attitude they have exhibited.
The doctors who sounded frustrated accused the commission of failing to resolve the impasse dispassionately instead of the entrenched position they have taken.
The strike action embarked by the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has entered into the fourth day, with no sign of Doctors returning back to hospitals.
Dr. Frank Serebour claimed the Health Ministry has failed to show commitment to resolve the matter; as they have never been part of any of the negotiation meetings.
He denied rumours that the strike action was based on money.

However, the Deputy Health Minister, Rojo Mettle Nunoo explained that there were two consultant submitted reports which seem to favour the doctors but unfavourable to other medical workers.
He noted that the doctor’s agitation stems from the fact that the commission was rather using another consultant’s report which deals more with the implementation of the job evaluation assessment.
He said they held a meeting with all stakeholders to agree on the negotiations for the doctors.

SIR JOHN DEFENDS RAWLINGS

The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party, NPP Lawyer Owusu Afriyie had defended former president, Rawlings and attacked president Mills and Dr. Obed Asamoah as ungrateful.
He has predicted doom for the NDC in their 2012 campaign as a result of the frustrations Rawlings and ignoring his role as a key person in the campaign.
The controversial General Secretary of the NPP who had earlier condemned the NDC General Secretary Johnson Aseidu Nketia for leading the negotiations for the return of the DFP to power lashed at launched another attack on president Mills describing him as a hypocrite and the one masterminding all the attacks brought against the former president.
Sir John was speaking on Dwaso Nsem this morning.
CUE: SIR JOHN WEEPS FOR RAWLINGS
The General Secretary for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Kwadwo Owusu Afriyie says the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will get two votes from the Democratic Freedom Party (DFP) merger.
Kwadwo Owusu Afriyie known in political circles as ‘Sir John’ explained that the DFP has two votes including the life patron of the party, Dr. Obed Asamoah and Bede Zedine and the merger does not scare the NPP a bit.

On his part the NDC General Secretary, Johnson Asiedu Nketia was happy that the return of the DFP will make the NDC stronger to beat their opponents in what he described as landslide in the general elections.
He questioned the interest of the NPP in whether the DFP returns to the NDC or that adding that if their assumption that the NDC is making a mistake by their decision, then the NPP should be jubilating instead of condemning them.
General Mosquito described the comment of the NPP General Secretary as hypocritical.
He was sure of victory for the party in 2012.

BLAME GOVERNMENT FOR DEATHS -GHANA MEDICAL ASSOCIATION

The Vice President of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), Dr Frank Serebour has stated that should any death be recorded out of the strike action, the government must be held responsible.
He called on all well meaning people in the country not to blame doctors but the Fair Wages and Salary Commission as well as government.
According to him, people always accuse doctors for lack of commitment when they demanding better wages forgetting that without better conditions doctors cannot carry out their duties, he stated.
Dr Serebour noted that the medical association had always seen strike as the last option in view of its negative implications in the country but regretted that GMA have no choice than to employ the option in the face of Government’s intransigence.
Doctors announced a nationwide strike beginning Saturday, October 8, 2011. They are in protest over failure by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission in addressing issues relating to their placement onto the Single Spine Salary Structure.
Others are the inability of the FWSC to provide evidence of migration of doctors onto the SSSS and the ambiguous stance of the Single Spine Salary Secretariat on the positions of District Directors of Health Service and Medical Superintendents.
In the light of this, the National Executive Council of the GMA has decided that the roadmap as stated in the press statement issued in Tamale on September 24 should come into effect until agreement with government over their allowances are met.

Story: Samuel Mantey/Adom news/Ghana

Ghana earns 337.3 million dollars from oil

The Minister of Energy, Dr Oteng Adjei has revealed that total crude oil production from the Jubilee offshore field between January and September 2011 amounted to 16.7 million barrels, with Ghana earning 337.3 million dollars from its first three lifting’s of 2.98 million barrels.

He said Government is commitment to ensure the judicious use of the revenue to be generated from Ghana’s fledgling oil and gas sector to the benefit of the citizenry.
But stated that stakeholders have to play their part to improve the sector for government to achieve its agenda of accelerated and sustainable economic development.
Dr Oteng-Adjei said interest in Ghana’s oil and gas was growing and becoming more competitive, thus placing Ghana in the right stead to negotiate for better fiscal terms and petroleum agreements that preserved national interest.

He said that currently, 13 different petroleum operations were being undertaken along the country’s shorelines at different stages of exploration and development, demonstrating government’s commitment to streamlining and accelerating the process of acquisition of blocks and to speedily increase Ghana’s oil and gas resources.

OWUSU BEMPEH URGE BABA JAMAL TO APOLOGISE TO FORMER PRESIDENT RAWLINGS

The Director of Operations for the Friends of Nana Konadu Rawlings (FONKAR), Ernest Owusu Bempeh has urged the Deputy Minister of Information to apologise to Former President Rawlings for stating that discussing the former president residence is a waste of time.
Mr Ernest Owusu Bempeh made these statements when the Baba Jamal stated that there are more important matters for government to deal with instead of such ‘unnecessary distractions’ is an evidence of the nature of the Mills government.
Baba Jamal was asked how far government has gone with the reconstruction of the gutted residence of Mr. Rawlings when he replied that there are more important matters to be discussed.
Mr Ernest Owusu Bempeh explains that Baba Jamal should not have made those statements especially when the government is preaching about peace and unity in the country ahead of the elections.
CUE IN: EOB ON BABA JAMAL

PRESIDENTS OUATTARA & JONATHAN PAY STATE VISITS TO GHANA

His Excellency President John Evans Atta Mills will play host to Presidents Alassane Ouattara of Cote D’Ivoire and Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria, who will visit Ghana officially on Thursday, October 06, 2011, and Friday, October 07, 2011, respectively.

As part of his “working and friendship” visit, President Ouattara will have a closed-door session with President Atta Mills and meet with a section of the Ivorian community in Ghana.

Ghana and Cote D’Ivoire will also sign an agreement with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) relating to Ivorian refugees in Ghana.

President Alassane Ouattara returns home later the same day.

On his part, President Jonathan will also have a closed-door session with President Atta Mills and be the Special Guest at the Golden Jubilee anniversary of the Ghana Institute of Management And Public Administration (GIMPA).

President Goodluck Jonathan departs for Nigeria on Saturday, October 08, 2011.

MINISTRY TO INCREASE ALLOWANCES FOR TEACHERS IN THE RURAL AREAS

The Head of Public Relations at the Ministry of Education, Charles Parker-Allotey says plans are far advanced to increase the general conditions and remuneration of the teachers in the rural areas.
He says teachers are one of the hardworking group of people in the country but least celebrated hence the plans to increase salaries of teachers in rural areas.
Mr. Parker-Allotey made these statements ahead of the World Teachers Day Celebrations in Takoradi.

Concern teachers association has called on the government to ensure that all children achieve at least Secondary education as a measure to reduce poverty in the country and create employment.
The spokesperson of the group, Norbert Gbogbotsi stressed that government needs to make sure that the Free Compulsory Universal Basic Education (FCUBE) is achieved by the year 2015.
Speaking ahead of the Teachers Day in Takoradi, Norbert Gbogbotsi stated that the education ministry should provide adequate resources at the various institutions for teaching and learning.

4 DOCTORS VOLUNTEER TO RESCUE TEMA GENERAL HOSPITAL

The Greater Accra Director in Charge of Posting at the Ghana Health Service, Professor Irene Agyapong has disclosed that 4 medical doctors have volunteer posting to the Tema General Hospital.
According to Professor Irene Agyapong, the health service has filed their letters to the Human Resource Department of the service for the necessary arrangement to be made.
Professor Agyapong who would not tell the exact time for the finalization of the document for posting said the process is part of management plans to reopen the Maternity Ward of the hospital as soon as possible.
She stress that the Ghana Health Service is still on the lookout for 3 doctors who refuse posting to the Tema General Hospital to beef up personnel at the hospital.

The move became necessary when several pregnant women who were due for delivery were turned away by authorities of the Tema General Hospital following shortage of doctors there.
Mrs Elizabeth Dogbey, the Administrator of the Hospital said the Maternity Department of the Tema General Hospital (TGH) had five doctors made up of two specialists, two obstetric doctors, and one Gynecologist.
Two of the doctors are on leave without pay, two had travel to further their studies while one is receiving treatment.
According to the Administrator, some of the doctors had left the Hospital without any reason, and attributed this to poor salary and a huge workload.
Story: Samuel Mantey/Adom news/Ghana

5,000 NPP VOTERS READY TO VOTE FOR VICTOR SMITH

Some NPP voters in Abuakwa in the Eastern Region have defected to the NDC to support Ghana’s Ambassador to the Czech Republic Victor Smith quest to contest for the seat in the 2012 parlaimentary elections.
According to the spokesperson of the defectors, Atta Boateng the have decided to vote for Victor Smith because of the projects he has already began ahead of the elections.
He explains that Ambassador Smith has started the construction of the major roads which were rejected by previous administration.
Atta Boateng however hinted that they will vote for Nana Akufo-Addo in the presidential race but they will vote for Ambasador smith in the parliamentary race.

MINISTER URGE STUDENTS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF ICT EDUCATION

Minister for Food and Agriculture, Mr Kwesi Ahwoi has called on the students to use internet facility at their disposal to learn adding that the world is moving fast from paper work to computer.
Mr Kwesi Ahwoi made these statements when he presented 80 computers and accessories to four Senior High Schools in the Agona West Municipality and Agona East District of the Central Region.
The schools are Swedru School of Business (SWESBUS), Swedru Senior High School (SWECO), Nyakrom Secondary Technical School and Nsaba Presbyterian Senior High School.
Mr Ahwoi said the donation is to enhance Information Communication Technology (ICT) learning at the Senior High schools.
He said the computers were brought from the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communication (GIFEC) under the Ministry of Communication to assist ICT studies.
A member of the Ghana Investment Fund for electronic communication, Mr Paul Ofori Amoah appealed to the authorities of the beneficial schools to take good care of the computers and also let them serve the purpose for which they were donated.
He explains to Adom news the criteria for selecting the schools
CUE IN: PAUL OFORI AMOAH

AGOGO YOUTH CALLS FOR THE ARREST OF ALHAJI GRUNSAH

The Spokesperson for the Agogo Youth Association, Kingsley Obeng accused Alhaji Karim Grunsah of procuring Fulani herdsmen with arms and ammunitions to terrorize residents at Agogo and its surrounding villages.
He is therefore calling on the Police to immediate arrest the Banker roller of Kig Faisal Football Club for providing arms to the Fulani herdsmen.
He argued that Alhaji Grunsah owns part of the herd of cattle in the area and has therefore provided the herdsmen with arms.
CUE IN: KINGSLEY OBENG
However, Alhaji Karim Grunsah could not confirm or deny whether he is the one providing arms to the herdsmen.
Alhaji Grunsah said he legally acquired the said land for his cattle grazing from the Paramount chief of Agogo Traditional area, Nana Akuoko Sarpong and has not violated any regulations.
Alhaji Grunsah said herds of cattle at Agogo belong to three people who are Ghanaians, including he Alhaji Grunsah, Alhaji Dauda and Alhaji Salia. Agogomanhene, Nana Akuoko Sarpong has filed a writ of summons to eject the Fulani herdsmen from the land.
He however denied reports that an indigene was gunned down by the Fulanis, but fell from a Motor bike and died.

The Member of Parliament for Asante Akyem north in the Ashanti Region, Kwame Anyimadu Antwi says Fulani herdsmen in the area should leave their land, because the people are fed up with heinous activities of Fulani herdsmen in the area.
He explained that people are now afraid to visit their farms for fear of being killed by the herdsmen or being raped.
Mr Kwame Anyimadu Antwi said this when commenting on activities of Fulani herdsmen in the Afram Plains area on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem on Friday.

Still on the show, the Municipal Chief Executive for Asante Akyem north, Thomas Osei Bonsu accused Alahji Grunsah for flouting the rules of the assembly without registering his herd of cattle.
He stressed that the assembly does not accrue any revenue from the cattle business at Agogo.
He cited Alhaji Grunsah has refused to construct Wells for the cattle and also fencing the grazing area.
Meanwhile, the widow whose husband was killed by the Fulani herdsmen, Adowa Baah said her husband was gunned down by the Fulani herdsmen and reported the case to the Agogo police.

AGOGO MCE BLAME CHIEF FOR FULANI ATTACKS

The Municipal Chief Executive of Agogo in the Asante Akim North District of the Ashanti Region, Thomas Osei Bonsu has blamed the Chief of Agogo for the series of attack on residents by the Fulani herdsmen.
According to him, the chiefs have not taken any steps to clear the Fulani herdsmen s from the area.
Thomas Osei Bonso states that chiefs have not officially communicated to the government about the recent attack on the residents which makes it difficult for government to intervene.
He made these comments after the residents in Agogo decided not to take part in social gathering especially funerals because of the terrorising, destroying their crops, and allegedly raping their women in the bushes when on their way to farm

ASSEMBLY MEMBER CURSE TEACHERS FOR POOR BECE RESULTS

The assembly memberat Asante Bekwai in the Ashanti Region, Mr Philip Duah says he is going to curse Education supervisors, teachers and all the stakeholders for the poor performance of students in the recent BECE examination.
He explains that the public sectors are the best resourced institution in the country but did not understand why students continue to fail in the final exams.
Speaking in an interview with Adom news on his way to perform the rituals, Mr Philip Duah stated that those teachers and headmasters who did not perform their duties to enable the students excel in the exams will be most affected.
According to him, the government has provided schools with the necessary logistics and resources and that he does not understand why students continue to fail.
Mr Philip Duah decided to curse teachers when GES disclosed that about 50 percent of students who sat for the BECE failed.
Mr Philip Duah was refuse to give details of the curse says his curse will take immediate effect.

MORE YOUNGSTERS HAVING UNSAFE SEX

The World Health Organisation says young people across the globe are having more unprotected sex and know less about effective contraception options.
It says the currently 11%–13% of teens in Ghana are having unsafe sex.
The WHO says the rate is low but worrying because there is high awareness of the various contraceptive methods among adolescence and youths and yet some do not use them.
Some people who spoke to Adom news believe bathing or showering after sex will prevent pregnancy.
Others believe that having intercourse during menstruation is an effective form of contraception.
CUE IN: CONTRACEPTIVE

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION SHUT DOWN SCHOOL WITHOUT NOTICE

Teachers, Parents and guardians of Freeman School Complex in the Akyim Oda district in the Eastern Region have expressed their frustration and disappointment after the school administration shut down the school without prior notice.
The school was supposed to have reopened two weeks ago but it did not because the school authorities closed it down.
The teachers and parents tell Adom News Reporter Kwesi Azor it is a breach of contract for the school authorities to shut down the school without notifying them.

Some of the parents say they have purchased stationery worth GHC250 for their children for the new term which never came.

Reports gathered from the school indicate that the owner of the school, Margret Freeman has left the country to the United States.
Efforts to reach to school authorities for their side of the story proved futile.

DR KENNEDY SLAMS GOVERNEMENT FOR LONG DELAYS FOR DOCTORATE LICENSES

After Adom News exposure that the maternity block of the Tema General hospital has been closed down temporarily due to the absence of medical doctors to mane the department, a lecturer at the University Cape-Coast Medical School, Dr Arthur Kennedy has slammed government and the Ghana Health Service for undermining the return of Ghanaian doctors back home.
Dr. Kennedy says it’s disturbing that several Ghanaian doctors abroad are willing to return home to support the health delivery system; however the Health Service frustrates them with charging unexplained feed and long waiting periods before approval id given.
Citing his personal experience, Dr Arthur Kennedy disclosed that he had to wait for more than three years to get his licenses in Ghana whereas in the U.S it takes just is 2 days to do same.
He disclosed that about 1000 of his colleague doctors have been forced to remain in the US is as a results of the poor working conditions and the frustration in the Health Service.
He is therefore urging authorities to make licenses of doctors from the Diaspora easier to support their colleagues in the country.

He also called on the government to take a look at the conditions of service of doctors in the country in order to motivate doctors to stay rather than travelling to other countries due the worsening conditions of service her.
Dr Arthur Kennedy was speaking to Adom news in reaction to the shortage of doctors at the Tema General Hospitals which has necessitated the temporary shutdown of the Maternity block.

DR KENNEDY SLAM GOVERNMENT ON POOR CONDITIONS OF MEDICAL DOCTORS

A lecturer at the University Cape-Coast Medical School, Dr Arthur Kennedy has called on the government to take a look at the conditions of service of doctors in the country in order to motivate them to stay rather than travelling abroad for greener pastures.
He stated that about 1000 doctors alone in the US is as a results of the poor working conditions in the country.
Dr Arthur Kennedy made these comments in an interview with Adom news in reaction to the shortage of doctors at the Tema General Hospitals as some of the doctors travelled outside for greener pastures.

Dr Kennedy urge the medical council and the health service to create the right conditions for doctors so that those abroad will join their colleagues at home.
He explains that in Ghana it takes more than 2 years for a doctor to get his licenses whereas in the US is 2 days.
Therefore, Dr Kennedy appealed to the government to help resolve the situation of shortage of doctors in the country.

DOCTORS WANTS MIGRATION TO THE SINGLE SPINE SALARY NOW

The National Executive Council of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has emphasized its stance to stop work if they are not migrated into the single spine salary structure by October 7th.
The doctors urge the fair wages and salary secretariat to fasten up in migrating them to the SSSS.

The President of the Ghana Medical Council, Dr. Emmanuel Adom Winful demanded full payment of Doctors allowance from January 2010 to date.

Dr Adom Winful revealed that the nation’s hardworking Doctors were not enjoying the 20% increment of salaries recently announced by government.

He said they would not change their stance until their demands are met

TEMA GENERAL HOSPITAL MATERNITY WARD TEMPORARILY SHUT DOWN

The administrator of the Tema General Hospital, Madam Elizabeth Dogbe says the maternity ward has to be temporarily closed down because of shortage of doctors.
Reports had earlier indicated that several pregnant women who were due for delivery had been directed by the hospital authorities to seek medical attention elsewhere because there were no doctors.
There was a notice posted on the hospital’s walls by the authorities with the new directions to the anxious mothers to be.
According to Madam Dobge who spoke off air, the shortage is because two of the doctors at the Maternity department have travelled outside the country while 2 are on leave without pay.
She stressed that until government takes drastic measures to provide them with enough doctors the maternity ward will remain closed.
Meanwhile some of the anxious and frustrated pregnant women spoke to Adom News


END SAM

HEAVY FOODS AT NIGHT MAKE THE BODY INACTIVE AT DAY- NUTRITIONIST

Nutritionist, Ms Loraine Boateng has advice against the intake of heavy and fatty foods late at night.
She says the intake of starchy foods makes digestion difficult resulting in an inactive body during the day.
She recommended that professions like traders, bankers, drivers, medical practitioners, security services and other time consuming professions should always take in their breakfast early in the morning before they kick start day.
Ms Loraine Boateng stated that good eating habits improve the work output hence eating good makes the body healthy for the job therefore it was important for companies to even encourage good eating habits.
The Nutritionist made those comments in relation to the high job demand and the eating habit of workers.

Ms Loraine Boateng suggested that people should not always depend on their messengers but make the effort to stretch their limbs.
She stated that those people in time demanding jobs should always go to check their blood and body levels.

JERRY RAWLINGS WILL CAMPAIGN FOR PRESIDENT MILLS IN 2012- GENERAL MOSQUITO

The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress, Johnson Asiedu Nketia has stated that former President John Rawlings will campaign for the party ahead of the 2012 elections.
He says the NDC has become more united after the Sunyani Congress and thus the former President Rawlings will join the campaign to canvass votes for President Mills.
Johnson Asiedu Nketia made these statements at the party headquarters in an interview with Afia Pokua on Dea Mehunu programme on Wednesday.

Johnson Asiedu Nketia suggested that in order to reduce tension ahead of the elections in 2012, he advised that factions should visit each other’s office to share ideas.
He noted that the exemplary way by which former President Rawlings and President Kufour met at the JAK Foundation launch should be emulated by other political parties.

NPP NOT AWARE OF DR BAWUMIA LISTENING CAMPAIGN- SIR JOHN

The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party, Kwadwo Owusu Afriye says party Executives is not aware of the campaign by the former running mate for Nana Akufo-Addo in the 2008 elections, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the Northern region.
He explains that as far as the council of elders and the campaign team of the NPP are concern they have little knowledge of the presence of Dr Bawumia in the country.
According to Kwadwo Owusu Afriye, they are yet to receive official letter from Dr Bawumia to assist in the listening campaign strategy of the NPP.
Kwadwo Owusu Afriye made these comments in reaction to a story that the 2008 running mate Dr Bawumia has storm the Northern Region to commerce campaign for Nana Akufo Addo.

Kwadwo Owusu Afriye stated that no individual needs permit to campaign for the NPP but rather high officials need the support from the NPP to campaign for the party.
He urges Ghanaians to join hands with the NPP to propagate the bad deeds of the failed NDC government.

TEMA MTTU BOSS DEBUNK DRIVING BEST UNDER ALCOHOL RUMOUR

The Tema MTTU Boss, Superintendent Daniel Dankyi has debunked speculations that drivers drives best under the influence of alcohol.
According to him, that notion is false and does not make sense in the modern time.
Superintendent Dankyi made these comments on Dwaso Nsem programme on Dwaso Nsem in an interview with Adakabre Frimpong Manso.
He was commenting on an accident incident where a driver suspected to have been drinking drove off his line to crash another vehicle living the victim dead while sentenced to three years in Jail.
He charged drivers driving under the influence of alcohol to desist from it.

Meanwhile, the number of years sentenced by the court to the driver has aroused many debate as to whether after killing a someone the drunk driver deserve to be sentenced to only three years in Jail.

MP LOSES NIECE IN KONONGO ACCIDENT

The Member of Parliament for Jirapa, Dr Bawaana Dakura has disclosed that his niece is among the 22 victims who lost their lives on the Konongo-Yawkwei road.
Speaking to our reporter, Adu Gyamfi of Virgin City radio in Konongo, Dr Bawaana Dakura stated that the 25 year old Degree student of IPS was on her way to see her fiancé in Tamale.
According to him, his niece was making preparations to get married by the end of the year.
Dr Bawaana Dakura who is a member of the Energy Commission expressed his shock over the incident.

Meanwhile, a woman whose 5 relatives were involved in the accident says that 2 of her members are still missing.

The Medical Superintendent of the Konongo Hospital, Dr. Akuamoah Boateng says 4 persons whose conditions were very critical were referred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
According to Dr. Akuamoah Boateng, two children whose identity is still unknown were unconscious at the time they were brought to the Hospital.
He said the family members of the victims are still trooping in to the hospital to identify their families.
END SAM

WAEC IS RIGHT TO PUBLISH PHOTOs, NAMES OF CHEATING STUDENTS

A legal expert, Lawyer Osei Kwadwo has approved of the West African Examination Council’s (WAEC) decision to publish photos and details of students who engage in examinations malpractices.
He says WAEC has outlined it’s regulations for the exams thus each student who agrees to sit for the exams has to comply with the rules of the examinations.
According to him, any student who plans to sue WAEC for the publication will have no case in court.
Lawyer Osei Kwadwo made these statements in reaction to the numerous calls from child rights activists against the publication of the names and pictures of students who engaged in exam malpractices.
WAEC published the names and photographs of students who were alleged to have been involved in various forms of malpractices during last year’s WASSSCE Nov-Dec examinations in the newspapers.
But Lawyer Osei Kwadwo has slammed child rights activists of accusing WAEC for infringing on the rights of the students.

He adds that WAEC publishes the names to deter future candidates from engaging in examination malpractice.

He challenged the human rights activists to go court to test the law.

The Principal Public Affairs Officer of WAEC, Agnes Teye-Cudjoe says the move is a policy by the council to reduce the incidence of examination malpractices.

She added that the examination malpractice incidents were not alleged cases and that WAEC had undertaken a thorough investigation into the matter before publication.

POLICE SUSPECT FATIGUE CAUSE OF KONONGO ACCIDENT

The Konongo Assistant Police Divisional Commander of the Motor Traffic and Transport Unit (MTTU) ASP Augustine Mensah has attributed the unfortunate accident along the Konongo and Yawkwei stretch of the Kumasi-Accra highway in the Ashanti region to fatigue on the part of the KIA bus drivers.
He explains the possible cause of the KIA driver driving along the other stretch of the road can be linked to fatigue or the driver sleeping while driving.
Speaking to Adakabre Frimpong Manso on Dwaso Nsem programme, says they are still investigating the cause of the accident and will soon release details of the accident.
Families of accident victims on admission at the Konongo Regional Hospital have been ordered to pay for an ambulance to convey their relatives to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi.
This development is as a results of the about 30 people in accident this morning at the Konongo and Yawkwei stretch of the Kumasi-Accra highway in the Ashanti region.

CHALLENGES FACING SUNYANI MARKET

Market Women in Sunyani in the Brong Ahafo region say one of the major challenges in their business is the high transportation fares that tend to affect the prices of goods and products.
The secretary of the Sunyani Market, Madame Susana Ama Kumi explains that the due to the poor roads in the area, drivers charges them high transportation fares which is slowly killing their business.
Speaking to Adom Business News, she consented that another challenge facing them is the poor storage of products such as Tomatoes and Onions.
Madame Ama Kumi says because of the poor storage of the tomatoes and Onions they find it difficult to store the farm product to last longer.

NADMO WANTS AUTHORITY TO DEMOLISH BUILDINGS

The Central Regional Administrator of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Tony Arkorful has called on the government to give them the right to demolish buildings and structures in disaster zones.
He says that the District Assemblies have so much do so they cannot concentrate on demolishing buildings in disaster zones, so it will be prudent to authorize NADMO to do that job.
According to him, buildings in water ways are the major causes of flooding and its resultant loss of life and displacement.
He made the call in an interview with Adom News during a day’s workshop for Heads of Departments, chiefs and security agencies on how to prevent disasters.
CUE IN: TONY ARKORFUL

LAWYER URGE PEOPLE TO GO TO COURT IF YOU ARE ACCUSE OF WITCHCRAFT

A legal expert, Lawyer Yaw Anokye Frimpong says individuals can go to court for redress if they are accuse of witchcraft.
He explains that the customary laws and the constitution of Ghana allow individuals to sue anyone who calls him or her a witch or wizard.
Lawyer Frimpong was speaking to the issue of people who have been accused as witches and wizards and confined to witch camps across the country.

He however stresses that one cannot charge the individual for defamation because the British laws on which Ghana laws are based, do not recognized witchcraft as defamation.
Lawyer Frimpong stated that one can go the district court if he or she is accused of witchcraft.

GOVERNMENT READY TO BAN WITCHCRAFT

Chief Clinical Psychiatrist at the Accra Psychiatric Hospital, Dr Akwasi Osei has revealed that government has finally agreed to ban the establishment of witch camps particularly in the three Northern Regions.
He consented that the ban on the establishment of Witch camp will help reduce the abuse of human rights against women.
According to him, the Deputy Minister of Women and Children’s Affairs, Hawawu Boya agreed
Dr Akwasi Osei made these statements after a-day workshop with the Ministry of Women’s and Children’s Affairs on the abolishing of Witch Camps.
Dr Akwasi Osei was optimistic that government will take the necessary steps to pass the law immediately in Parliament.

Commenting on how the suppose witches in the camp will be integrated into the society, Dr Osei called for a change in social and mental mindset so people will not blame their grandparents for their misfortunes.
He also tasked the government to prepare structures and measures to accommodate the women from the camp.
End.

PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED GROUP SUPPORT DCE TO RUN IN NDC PARLIAMENTARY PRIMARIES

About 100 members of the Ghana Federation of Disabled in Akyemansa District of the Eastern Region has paid the nomination fee GHC2,000 for the District Chief Executive, Tom Budu to compete in the NDC Parliamentary primaries for Ofoase Ayirebi.
Secretary for the Federation, Evans Osei Baffour tells Adom New correspondent Kwesi Azor that Mr. Tom Budu is a leader who always wishes to help the physically challenged.
He says the DCE made sure they always got their share of the common fund.
Mr. Baffour says the GHC2,000 was raised from their individual contributions over the past six months.

Meanwhile, Tom Budu was surprise at the gesture shown by the members of the federation.
He says he will help provide them with social amenities when he eventually wins the contest to represent them in Parliament.

DR SEKOU NKRUMAH DENIES REJOINING THE CPP

The last son of Ghana’s First President, Kwame Nkrumah has denied speculations that he has rejoined the CPP after earlier reports that he has resigned from the NDC.
The former coordinator of the Ghana Youth Council stress that he only resigns from the NDC because of differences in ideologies.
Dr. Sekou Nkrumah says the current leadership of the NDC has failed to change the lives of Ghanaians better than they came to inherit hence the decision to rejoin the CPP
According to Dr. Sekou Nkrumah the Atta Mills administration is not making dynamic enough moves to change the lives of Ghanaians and is therefore losing to the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).
He made these statements when speaking on Adakabre Frimpong Manso on Dwaso Nsem Tuesday.
Dr. Sekou Nkrumah said his main objective to join the NDC was to help change the fortunes of Ghanaians, but this dream seems to be far achieved with the current leadership of the party.
Meanwhile, the National Propaganda Secretary for the National Democratic Congress, Richard Quashigah says the NDC wishes Dr. Sekou Nkrumah well in his endeavour.
He said every individual has the right to take his decision, adding Dr. Nkrumah’s line of thinking may be different from what the NDC holds.
On the issue of the current government fumbling with governance, Richard Quashigah said it is unfortunate to make a statement.
He argued that the NDC government is doing well in governance.
He added though things have not been smooth, but the government is on course.

GOVERNMENT MUST ENFORCE LAW ON EARLY MARRIAGES

Child Rights Activist, Bright Appiah has called on the government to immediately enforce the law which prohibits force and early marriages in the country.
He says force marriages tend to violent the rights of the children as well as their psychological makeup.
According to him, parents and guardians do not have the right under the constitution to allow early marriages of the children.
Bright Appiah was commenting on the unfortunate incident in Bawku where a 15 year old girl was forced into marriage.
He urged Parents and guardians to recognize the decision of the child before agreement is made on the marriage.

MD URGE INSURANCE COMPANIES TO COMPLY WITH NEW DIRECTIVES

The Managing Director of Star Assurance Company, George Kwadwo Addison has urged insurance companies to comply with the new directives on a new embargo for the establishment of insurance companies.
He said the new embargo which halts the establishment of new insurance companies will help the existing companies to grow.
George Kwadwo Addison congratulated the Insurance Commission for taking a bold step towards the development of insurance sector.
He made these statements in an interview with Adom Business news at the opening of a new branch at Spintex road and also product launch of Star Insurance.
George Addison stated that products such as child life star plus and family protection insurance have been made for ideal Ghanaian home.

BIOLOGRAPHY OF GHANA'S PRESIDENT

John Atta Mills AKA John Evans Atta Mills Born: 21-Jul-1944 Birthplace: Tarkwa, Ghana Gender: Male Religion: Methodist Race or Ethnicity: Black Sexual orientation: Straight Occupation: Head of State Nationality: Ghana Executive summary: President of Ghana Girlfriend: Ruby Addo (one son) Son: Sam Kofi Atta Mills Wife: Ernestina Naadu (educator) High School: Achimota School, Accra, Ghana (1963) Law School: LLB, University of Ghana (1967) Law School: LLM, London School of Economics (1968) Law School: PhD Taxation, School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London (1971) President of Ghana (7-Jan-2009 to present) Ghana Official Vice President (1997-2001) Ghana Official Commissioner, Internal Revenue Service (1993-97) Ghana Official Acting Commissioner, Internal Revenue Service (1988-93) Fulbright

Prof Akosa endorses Samia; she will win by 96.6 per cent

A member of the Convention Peoples Party, Professor Badu Akosa has endorsed the Member of Parliament for Jomoro, Samia Nkrumah as the new chairperson of the party. He says the daughter of Ghana’s first President will win the chairperson slot of the CPP by 96.6 per cent. He stress that Samia Nkrumah offers better chances of the party winning the general elections than any of her opponents. Professor Akosa made these statements in an interview with Asempa’s Kojo Asare Baffour Acheampong at the Congress grounds at Trade Fair, La in Accra. The former Director of the Ghana Health Service, stated that the party will focus bring all ousted members of the CPP back to the party. According to him, the CPP looks more formidable than ever ahead of the 2011 general elections. He disclosed that Dr Sekuo Nkrumah will be one of the members the new executives will be targeting to rejoin the party. Dr Akosa stated that plan to convinced Dr Sekuo Nkrumah to join the CPP is far advance and he is optimistic that Dr Sekuo Nkrumah will campaign for the CPP during the 2012 elections. ATTACK ON Dr NDUOM and NPP Dr Akosa slammed Dr Paa Kwesi Nduom decision to have accepted a ministerial appointment by former President Kufour and the NPP. He stated that one of the major problems of the CPP is that some of the members have shown little commitment to the party. He observed that Dr Paa Kwesi Nduom should have demonstrated true commitment by sticking to the CPP rather than joining forces with the NPP in government. Professor Akosa who only arrived from Kenya ahead of the Congress noted that President Kufour was on honey moon during his first tenure of office spanning from 2000 to 2004. For him, former President Kufour did little in the first term which should not have granted a second term. Reacting to why he head the Ministry of Health under President Kufour tenure, Prof Akosa said he saw the advertisement for the vacancy in the newspapers and decided to appeal for it. He recalled that he sat through an interview before he was appointed as the Director of the Health Service on merit. For him, party members should decline offers from governments in power so that the CPP can outline their goal when they win power. Story: Samuel Mantey/Adom news/Ghana

Ghana needs a radical and dynamic leader-Dr Sekou Nkrumah

Ghana needs a radical and dynamic leader-Dr Sekou Nkrumah Son of Ghana’s first President Dr. Sekou Nkrumah has stated that Ghana needs a radical and dynamic leader in other to empower rapid development and visions. He stated that looking at how rapid the world evolves in seconds; Ghana will be languishing if it fails to elect dynamic leaders in helm of affairs. Dr Sekou Nkrumah hinted that Ghana needs to redirect her focus in producing raw materials but focus in using science and technology to make the country a better place to life. Dr Sekou Nkrumah was speaking in an interview with Kwadwo Asare Baffour Acheampong at the extra-Ordinary National Delegates Congress of Convention People's Party (CPP) in Accra. Citing his father as an example, Dr Sekou Nkrumah wished all political parties to consider some similar characteristics of his father in electing key positions of the party. The first son of Dr Nkrumah observed that the CPP relevance and importance in 19th century is not directly needed in the 21st century. He therefore tasked the CPP to elect the radical leaders for the betterment of the nation. CPP MUST JOIN NDC The dismissed acting coordinator of the National Youth Council, Dr Sekou Nkrumah has suggested to the convention peoples party to focus in working relationship with the NDC to strengthen the party. He stress that the CPP needs to focus on winning parliamentary seats to pave more way for the then the says there is nothing wrong with presidential aspirants indulging in narcotics. Making his first comments on the recent NDC congress, he said the Former Rawlings will not campaign for President Mills but rather he will focus his attention on campaigning for the parliamentary members of the party. He hinted that the President Mills administration will have to face a stiffer test in 2012 because the government has done poorly to convinced the people. Asked why he never joined the party his father has formed, Dr Sekou Nkrumah stress that he has never took his father as a ‘father’, he was more interested in the achievement of the African Continent rather than playing a specific role at home, he emphasized. He said there was no personal relationship with his father. DR SEKOU ON WIKILEAKS He explained that recent report from Wikileaks mentioning some key government officials will not affect them or the party chances in the 2012 elections. Commenting on the Nana Addo drug addiction, he emphasized that drug addiction not a big deal. He stated that the great personality such as Bill Clinton and Barack Obama has admitted in taking in hard substance at some point in their life. He stated that if Nana Addo can bring a dynamic and radical leadership, he wouldn’t mind if he uses drugs. He said a lot of people uses drug during their leisure hours so its not a big issue if Nana Addo is on drugs. But Dr Nkrumah cautioned that Nana Addo should be able to control and direct his ambitions instead of drug directing him. Dr Nkrumah stated that since there is no evidence on the ‘gossips’ from Wikileaks, those cables needs to be thrown away, he added. After reading through most of the cables, Dr Nkrumah noted that there is nothing important from the cables and needs to thrown aside. He said there are more important issues in the country that needs immediate attention rather than focusing on Wikileaks. Story: Samuel Mantey/Adom news/ Ghana

14 CHILDREN PERISHED IN VOLTA LAKE ACCIDENT

The Brong Ahafo Regional Minister, Kwadwo Nyamekye Marfo says 14 children were among the victims whose lives was perished in the Volta Lake accident that claimed 30 lives. He explains that the out of the 14 children the lowest age is 6 month year old baby boy. Kwadwo Nyamekye made these statements after he led government officials and members of the District Security Council to Abotoasi in the Volta Region. He urged the public not to issue blame on individuals and institutions until investigations are established. He stated that it will be difficult to state the cause of the accident until thorough facts are established.

MINISTER BLAMES POOR VISIBILITY AS CAUSE OF VOLTA LAKE ACCIDENT-

The Brong Ahafo Regional Minister, Kwadwo Nyamekye Marfo has attributed the Volta Lake accident to poor visibility during the voyage. He explains that information they gathered indicated that the people were making the journey late in the evening at 9pm. Kwadwo Nyamekye made these statements after he led government officials and members of the District Security Council to Abotoasi in the Volta Region where two boat accidents have claimed 30 lives. He urged the public not to issue blame on individuals and institutions until investigations are established. He stated that it will be difficult to state the cause of the accident until thorough facts are established. The Brong Ahafo Regional Minister, Kwadwo Nyamekye Marfo says 2 more bodies are yet to be recovered after 21 bodies were discovered at the Volta lake accident. He stated that the government has dispatched group of paramedics to immediately attend to victims. End.

SAMSUNG LAUNCHES LARGEST TV SET IN GHANA

Samsung Ghana has introduced a 72-inch LED television set, the company’s biggest television set in the world, to demonstrate its commitment to providing consumers with state-of-the-art technologies. The Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Communications, Steve Mensah has commended Samsung Mobile for its initiative in making Ghana one of its sole distributors to other five African countries. He said such an initiative will go a long way to create jobs and advance the technology in Ghana. Steve Mensah made these comments on behalf the Minister Haruna Iddrisu at an exhibition held by Samsung Ghana. The Managing Director for Samsung Ghana, Mr. Bravo Kim has said there is the need for people to be abreast with the computer world especially children. He therefore promised that his outfit will ensure that they provide the best services in the country. He affirmed the company’s commitment to partner government to accelerate the development of Information Communications Technology (ICT) and help bridge the ICT huge gap.

MP SECURES CONTRACT FOR ROAD PROJECT AFTER YOUTH DEMONSTRATED

The Member of Parliament for Nkwanta South in the Volta Region, Gershon Gbediame has disclosed that the Ministry of Roads and Transport has awarded the contract for the construction of the Nkwanta road following the demonstration by the youth. He described as worrying the fact that the initial contract was awarded last May but financing was not forthcoming. According to him, they have been able to secure pre-finance loan from the European Union. Gershon Gbediame was reacting to demonstration by the youth in the Nkwanta District stating that no Politian including him to make an attempt to campaign in the town towards the 2012 general elections. They claim successive governments including the NPP and NDC failed on their promise to construct the Nkwanta-Kpasah road. The youth also accused the Member of Parliament, Mr. Gershon Gbediame for not being of help to the district. But Gershon Gbediame advised the people to exercise patience with the government on road projects. He however blamed the previous NPP government for neglecting the road project that was started by the last NDC administration.