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United thump Everton to give Amorin 1st premier league win

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Zirkzee scored his second and third goals of the season

Ruben Amorim collected his first Premier League victory in emphatic fashion as his Manchester United side easily put away lowly Everton at Old Trafford.

United drew at Ipswich last weekend in Amorim’s first game in charge since replacing interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, before beating Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League on Thursday.

On Sunday they were initially wasteful in the final third and had little control of the contest, but they were clinical once they broke through with Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee both scoring twice.

The hosts attempted to sign visiting defender Jarrad Branthwaite in the summer and it was a game to forget for the Everton defender, inadvertently contributing to United’s first two goals.

Rashford’s low strike deflected in off the centre-back’s outstretched boot for the opener, before Branthwaite dawdled on the ball allowing Amad Diallo to nip in and feed Bruno Fernandes, who laid it off for Zirkzee to convert.

The Red Devils effectively ended the game as a contest just 20 seconds into the second half when the impressive Diallo slid a pass through to Rashford to convert and Dutchman Zirkzee coolly slotted United’s fourth on 64 minutes to wrap up a comfortable victory.

United have now beaten Everton 42 times in the Premier League, the highest tally of any side against one opponent in the competition.

Credit: bbc.com

I’ll Change The Face Of Sports In Ghana … When Elected President Again -Mahama

By
NAABENYIN JOOJO AMISSAH
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John Dramani Mahama - NDC flagbeaerer

The leader and presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr John Mahama, has bemoaned the current state of sports development in the country, which recently forced the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to place a ban on Ghana’s main stadia. He has, therefore, promised to change the narrative when elected president on December 7, 2024.

In the “Resetting Ghana” manifesto of the NDC, the party noted that though Ghana was once a force to reckon with in African sports, it has now become a pale shadow of itself.

“From the heights of African football dominance to consistent appearances at World Cups, amid impressive performances, Ghana now struggles to compete with relative minnows in the sport and has suffered embarrassing exits from recent international competitions.

Our proud track record in athletics, boxing and hockey, among others, lies in ruins. Chronic under-investment, poor administration, corruption, out-moded infrastructure and abandonment of grassroots talent development have accounted for the current state of affairs,” said Mr Mahama.

Proposed solutions to reset the situation

To address the situation, he has given an assurance that he would implement far-reaching policies that would put Ghana back among the ranks of elite sporting nations in Africa and beyond if elected. 

John Dramani Mahama

The next NDC government shall thus focus on systematic long-term support for sports with a comprehensive National Sports Policy to guide the development of the following.
Sports infrastructure, sporting talents and human resource, sports governance and administration ethics, life-long participation and inclusivity, sports for economic and social development.

It would also include a framework for the implementation of the African Union’s Sports Agenda 2063 and the SDG Sports-Related Goals.

Sports Infrastructure Development
If elected, the NDC has planned to undertake emergency refurbishment of pitches at our national stadia in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Cape Coast and Sekondi, to meet FIFA standards.

Additionally, the party desired to pursue its long-standing policy of establishing international-standard stadia in all regions and provide for an equitable geographic spread of infrastructure for the development of sporting talents in all districts.

Also, the NDC proposed in its manifesto to build more multi-purpose sports facilities to promote regional sporting events and inter-school competitions as part of its talent development policy.
Upgrading of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) Sports College into a modern Sports University to offer training programmes in sports, related medicine, science and sports management/administration with campuses around Ghana, will be high on the priority table of Mr Mahama.
To rejuvenate the dwindling fortunes of sports, Mr Mahama has promised to establish Sports Centres of Excellence in the northern, middle and southern zones, in collaboration with existing universities and the private sector.

To develop a strategy in partnership with the private sector to provide community sporting facilities to stimulate talent development is another policy the party would implement.
Sport Talents and Human Resource Development
In the manifesto, the NDC promised to adequately support the development of colts, division one and two and the Ghana Premier League by augmenting the salaries of all registered footballers with allowances.

It also planned to diversify interests and investments into other sports disciplines beyond football and boxing by injecting reasonable resources into other competitive sporting activities including beach soccer, volleyball and regatta.

It also intended to ensure equitable investments in other national teams such as the women’s football teams, disability sports, football teams, juvenile teams and other lesser-known sports.

The party has again planned to establish a School Sport Development Agency to focus on developing young talents and promoting physical fitness among young people.

Hold biennial capacity-building programmes and sporting clinics for technical teams, especially women and persons with disabilities to pursue careers in sports administration and management;
Offer scholarships to promising sports talents, encourage sporting personalities to invest in pension schemes while in active service, revive Schools and Colleges Sports at all levels, including Primary and Junior High schools, in consultation with relevant stakeholders.

Support retired sports personalities to pursue other sports-related careers after an active sporting life and promote community teams and competitions in various sports.

 

Mad Rush For NPP ‘T’ Shirts In A/R

By
SEBASTIAN R. FREIKU
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Dr Mahamudu Bawumia - NPP presidential candidate

Like the Kwabre East and other constituencies, constituents and particularly supporters and followers of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Atwima Kwanwoma, are craving for NPP ‘T’ shirts.

Kofi Oduro Kyeremateng – Atwima Kwanwoma NPP constituency chairman

Party executives from these constituencies want the party hierarchy to consider providing more of party ‘T’ shirts for voters in the area.

They claim supply of ‘T’ shirts is a guarantee for the party’s victory at the December polls.

The Atwima Kwanwoma constituency Chairman, Kofi Oduro Kyeremateng, identified inadequate supply of ‘T’ shirts as one of the few conspicuous challenges facing the party, ahead of the December 7 polls.

Briefing a delegation of the Ashanti Regional NPP Council of Elders at Atwima Nkoranza last week, the constituency chairman said the issue of ‘T’ shirts is making a lot of magic, as the people are chasing party executives for them.

According to him, the constituency has so far procured and supplied about 11,000 ‘T’ shirts, which has solved some challenges half way, and stressed the need for more T shirts.

Chairman Kyerematen noted that the current 125,600 voter population needs more resources and fair distribution of resources to ensure victory.

In a bid to improve the electoral fortunes of the party in the  constituency, the constituency executives  have adopted a “Go to vote” policy to encourage  voters domiciled outside the constituency  to come to vote  in the constituency  in their numbers to meet 90,000 votes targeted in  the December polls.

Precious Minerals Marketing Company: The Success Story Via Strategic Investments

By
SEBASTIAN R. FREIKU
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Nana Akwasi Awuah, Managing Director - PMMC

The Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC), established in 1963 to purchase and market Ghana’s gold and diamond resources has made tremendous strides to elevate Ghana to the forefront of the African and global gold industry since 2017.

The State-Owned Agency now operates as the Government’s National Assayer with the sole mandate of assaying all gold that leaves the country.

The company, located in the Diamond House Building, in Accra, is also the sole implementing agency for the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), the global regime for the trade in diamonds.

Another core function of the Company is Jewellery production for which it operates under the subsidiary name, PMMC Jewellery Ltd (PJL).

Achievements

In 2018, Ghana was adjudged the best gold producer in Africa. The country also placed 6th globally, in the same category that year.

Yet in 2023, Ghana once again emerged as the top gold producer in Africa, displacing South Africa and other major players.

MD’s strategic role

Before Nana Akwasi Awuah assumed the role of Managing Director in 2021, PMMC was facing significant financial challenges, including debts owed to local partners totaling over GHc70 million and an additional amount of about US$5 million owed to International Creditors.

The PMMC Managing Director, however, worked diligently to settle these outstanding obligations, according to a documentary produced by the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) on State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs).

Nana Awuah noted that PMMC has successfully paid off the foreign debt and has established a plan to liquidate the local debt through an arrangement with the Receiver.

Nana Akwasi Awuah has attributed PMMC’s remarkable turnaround to the implementation of new reforms spearheaded by the Vice President of the Republic, which have been instrumental in transforming the company into a profitable state agency.

These strategic interventions have enabled PMMC to overcome its past financial challenges and emerge as a thriving enterprise.

Game-changer

Nana Akwasi Awuah disclosed that the Company has adopted strategic investments in cutting-edge 3D technology, which has enabled the company to design and produce high-quality gold and diamond jewellery that can compete with the best in the world.

This technological advancement has been a game-changer, empowering PJL to manufacture intricate jewellery and other gold-based products with precision and efficiency.

He also disclosed that the Company has taken advantage of the digitalization drive, led by the Vice President, to develop E-Commerce website in order to market and sell its premium jewellery online.

Working Environment

Nana Awuah emphasised PMMC’s commitment to employee welfare, ensuring that no staff member is owed salary arrears or long service payments as previous years before 2017.

He added that those who have demonstrated remarkable efficiency over the years, be it 5, 10, 15, or 20 years of service, have been rewarded with motivational sums, in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

This strategic approach, he explained, is aimed at stimulating growth and profits through a highly motivated and engaged workforce.

Government’s restructuring factor

Nana Awuah has also credited the Government’s decision to restructure PMMC as a key factor in the company’s success. This restructuring has culminated in the opening of a new state-of-the-art refinery by the Vice President, where about 400 kilograms of gold are expected to be processed each day.

This initiative is part of the Government’s broader strategy to ensure that Ghana mines and refines its gold deposits for export and the manufacturing of jewellery, thereby, promoting full value beneficiation of the mineral resource and also reducing the need for Ghanaians to travel abroad to purchase such products.

Corporate Social Responsibilities

The MD highlighted PMMC’s active engagement in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, noting that the company provides support to healthcare agencies, NGOs and outfits focused on breast cancer awareness campaign and other health campaigns.

Additionally, PMMC has been supporting the student front with funding for educational projects, including scholarships and other incentives to needy and vulnerable students through a partnership with student organisations, such as the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), University Students Association of Ghana (USAG), and others.

MD’s Vision

The Managing Director expressed his vision to oversee the continued reforms and growth of PMMC, ensuring that the Company can obtain the necessary international certification and to enable Ghana’s jewellery to penetrate the international market.

He also emphasised the company’s collaboration with government agencies to crack down on illegal activities in the mining sector, ensuring that the gold it uses in production are responsibly sourced free from conflict, child labour and environmental degradation.

Role of Board, Management and Staff recognised

Nana Awuah has expressed appreciation to the Board, Management and Staff of the Company for the continued support and contribution to the success story of PMMC, stating that their collective efforts have been instrumental in the company’s remarkable turnaround and transformation into a profitable state-owned enterprise.

“Our team has been the driving force behind PMMC’s success,” the CEO emphasised.

“Their unwavering commitment, hard work and shared vision have been crucial in overcoming the challenges we face and positioning the company for long-term growth and profitability.”

Nana Awuah’s commendation of his team’s dedication underscores the pivotal role they have played in elevating PMMC to become a leading player in Ghana’s mining sector and a source of national pride.

Dampare-Led Security Taskforce Meets TUC In Accra

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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The security taskforce

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare who is also the Chairman of the National Election Security Task Force (NESTF), has met with representatives of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) and key stakeholders in Accra yesterday.

The meeting, which was attended by all NESTF members, aimed to assure business leaders of the security measures in place to safeguard the upcoming general elections, ensuring a stable environment for trade and investment.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Dampare underscored the significance of national unity and collaboration, emphasising Ghana’s progress in election security over the years.

He lauded Ghanaians for their collective efforts in maintaining peace and urged all to stay committed to free, fair and peaceful elections.

“Let us not go back on our progress, but aim higher. As Ghanaians, we have demonstrated resilience and unity in times past and this should inspire us to do more,” the IGP stated.

He expressed that the NESTF’s innovative approach to election security, including the introduction of a long-term blueprint to integrate election security into national processes beyond the December elections.

Dr. Dampare reiterated a toll-free number, 0800-311-31, for the public to report suspicious activities or provide intelligence.

He emphasised that this initiative aims to ensure transparency and enhance collaboration between security forces and citizens.

“We want you to focus on your businesses and trust us with election security. Together, we can ensure Ghana remains peaceful,” he said.

Stakeholder Support and Reassurances

The Comptroller General of the Ghana Immigration Service, Mr. Kwame Asuah Takyi, highlighted the strategic inclusion of the private sector in election discussions, calling it a progressive step.

“There is an undeniable link between peace, elections, and development. Protecting our borders and ensuring internal stability remain our top priorities,” he noted.

The Director-General of Prisons, Isaac Kofi Egyiri, reaffirmed the readiness of security agencies to address any threats.

“We will not allow anyone to jeopardise the peace we have enjoyed as a nation,” he declared, urging political actors and their supporters to avoid actions that could incite unrest.

Dr. Serebour Quaicoe, Director of Training at the Electoral Commission (EC), assured attendees of the Commission’s commitment to transparent, credible and fair elections.

He emphasised the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, including the media, civil society, and security agencies, in ensuring electoral integrity.

GUTA representatives from the business community, including the Ghana Employers Association, Chamber of Mines and Chamber of Oil Bulk Distributors, commended the initiative.

President of the Association of Industries, Dr Humphrey Ayim-Drake pledged their support for the election process while expressing optimism about the measures being implemented.

“The stability of our democracy is essential for a predictable business environment and the security of our investments.

“We are grateful for this engagement and stand ready to collaborate for Ghana’s peace and progress,” he remarked.

 

 

Fashion an avenue for bridging gender inequality -Australian High Commission 

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Emelia Edwards, Second Secretary of the Australian High Commission in Ghana

The Second Secretary of the Australian High Commission in Ghana, Emelia Edwards, has emphasised the importance of the fashion industry as an avenue for the economic empowerment of Ghanaian women.

Delivering a speech at the Global Fashion Week held in Accra on Sunday, November 24, 2024 Emelia Edwards stated that the fashion industry presents an opportunity to bridge the inequality gap and promote inclusivity.

She, therefore, appealed to investors and stakeholders to focus on developing the sector and providing economic opportunities to women.

Emelia Edwards reiterated the commitment of the Australian government to the promotion of Ghana’s fashion industry.

She explained that the High Commission’s partnership with the organizers of the Global Fashion Week is indicative of their belief that a thriving fashion industry will help improve the conditions of some Ghanaian women.

She cited the example of a Ghanaian-Australian fashion brand that is making a huge impact both in Ghana and Australia. She disclosed that the brand is providing employment opportunities to an appreciable number of Ghanaian women.

“This is the second time we’ve partnered with Global Ovation to bring an Australian bite to this special program.

“We are proud to be supporting this event. I’m excited that we are going to see Ghana’s rich history of textile production combining with Australian fashion. It is truly special to see our countries come together to produce beautiful pieces.

“Australia is committed to being at the forefront of creativity, innovation and inclusivity. We want to encourage individuals and communities to tell their stories through their crafts and share them with the world,” she said.

The Global Fashion Week saw the exhibition of a collection of outstanding Ghanaian and Australian fashion.

The event also served as a platform for showcasing the works of Ghanaian photographer and Australian-Ghanaian photographer Sean Okkai, and for tasting premium Australian wine.

 

Judiciary committed to nurturing future leaders –CJ

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, CJ

The Chief Justice (CJ), Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, has unveiled transformative initiatives under the 2024 Enhanced Chief Justice’s Mentoring Programme, reaffirming the Judiciary’s commitment to nurturing future leaders grounded in integrity and service to the nation.

The event, held on Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at the Ghana School of Law, carried the theme: “I Pledge Myself to the Service of Ghana.”

Addressing a distinguished audience – including Supreme Court Justices, members of the Ghana Bar Association, educators, students and the media – Justice Torkornoo celebrated the vision of her predecessors in establishing the mentoring programme.

Initiated by Justice Georgina Theodora Wood in 2008, the initiative has grown to bridge the gap between the Judiciary and the public, while inspiring young people to pursue careers in law and public service.

This year’s programme introduced Justice Clubs, an innovation aimed at extending mentorship beyond the annual event.

These clubs, inaugurated in five Senior High Schools and youth groups, including St. Mary’s Senior High School, Accra High School and market porters (Kayayei) – are designed to deepen students’ understanding of legality, rights and constitutional principles.

“We are committed to demystifying the Judiciary and fostering a culture of justice through interactive engagements in schools and communities,” Justice Torkornoo said.

Plans are underway to establish Justice Clubs nationwide in 2025.

The Moot Court Competitions 

A new highlight of the programme was the moot court competition, which saw students from Justice Clubs showcasing their advocacy skills.

Justice Torkornoo praised participants for their dedication and encouraged them to view law as a tool for social transformation.

“The competition reflects our commitment to nurturing critical thinking and effective advocacy among young people,” she remarked.

Building a Culture of Service

In her keynote address, Justice Torkornoo underscored the importance of service to national development, stating “a nation’s greatness is the sum of its citizens’ efforts.

Whether in Science, Engineering or Law, progress comes from projects that benefit the collective good.”

She urged young people to prioritise ethical values, integrity and a commitment to lawful behaviour as drivers of personal and national success.

Justice Torkornoo expressed deep gratitude to institutional partners, sponsors, mentors and educators for their support in making the programme successful.

She highlighted the contributions of the UNDP, UNFPA, Bank of Ghana and Kasapreko Company Limited, among others.

Encouraging students to actively engage in the programme’s activities – including court visits and interactive forums – Justice Torkornoo concluded: “Today, we plant seeds of justice and service that will grow into a legacy of leadership and integrity for Ghana.”

On her part, Mrs. Efua Ghartey, President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) inspired young Ghanaians to view the legal profession as a tool for change and national development.

“Each of you has the potential to be change-makers,” Mrs. Ghartey said, adding “Whether as human rights lawyers defending the marginalised, corporate lawyers driving economic innovation, or legal aid lawyers ensuring justice for the underprivileged, your path can be one of service.”

Mrs. Ghartey indicated that lawyers have played critical role in Ghana’s history, from the independence movement to contemporary advocacy for human rights and economic equity.

“Service is a daily commitment to making a difference, no matter how small,” she noted “It’s about standing up for what is right and creating opportunities where none seem to exist.”

The Journey to Excellence

Justice of the Court of Appeal, Eric Kyei Baffour, added a personal touch, sharing how he overcame academic struggles to become a celebrated legal professional.

He told the students that their time is their most valuable assets, cautioning them against the distractions of social media.

“Invest in enriching your knowledge and preparing for a fulfilling career.”

Both speakers emphasised the importance of integrity, discipline and service in shaping Ghana’s future leaders, urging students to view law as a profession that transcends personal success to drive collective progress.

 

Media Freedom: A Cornerstone Of Democracy Under Threat

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admin
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Opinion

Imagine waking up one morning, tuning into your favorite radio station, only to hear a monotonous beeping sound. The station is eerily off-air. Frustrated, you switch on your TV, hoping to catch up on the day’s news, only to be greeted by a blank screen—either the ants-like static of analogue TV or the cold, unscrambled “unavailable” message on digital.

You’d feel disoriented, wouldn’t you? That creeping sense of unease stems from being cut off from the lifeline that connects us to the world—the media.

It’s a nightmare scenario, yet recent developments from Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC) risk edging us dangerously close to it. With December’s general elections looming, the EC’s decision to impose quotas on media accreditation at collation centers has raised alarms within the media fraternity and among the public.

In its recent press release, the EC acknowledged the concerns raised by media organizations about the restrictions. While emphasizing its commitment to transparency, the Commission pointed to the need for an “orderly and peaceful process” at collation centers, which it claims justifies the quotas on media access.

It assured stakeholders that discussions are underway with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA) to find an acceptable arrangement.

On the surface, this might appear as a reasonable move to maintain order. But when you peel back the layers, it becomes evident that limiting media access—however diplomatically packaged—is an affront to press freedom and, by extension, democracy.

Collation centers are not just bureaucratic hubs—they are the heartbeat of the electoral process. It is where raw votes are transformed into the official results that determine the future of our nation. Restricting media access at such a crucial stage risks creating an information vacuum.

Here’s why the quota system is problematic:

  1. Transparency Suffers: The fewer journalists present, the harder it becomes to independently verify the process. Transparency thrives on scrutiny, and the presence of diverse media outlets ensures that no single narrative dominates.
  2. Public Trust Wavers: Elections are not just about casting votes; they’re about believing in the system. Restricting media access breeds suspicion, creating fertile ground for rumors and misinformation.
  3. A Constitutional Breach: Ghana’s 1992 Constitution guarantees the media’s right to information. Limiting access undermines this right, which is critical in ensuring accountability and public confidence in the electoral process.

The EC’s concern for order and peaceful collation processes is valid. No one wants chaotic scenes that disrupt the tallying of results. But order and transparency are not mutually exclusive. The EC must adopt strategies that ensure smooth operations without curbing the media’s ability to perform its role.

The EC can:

  • Expand Accreditation Slots: Rather than limiting access outright, the EC could increase accreditation slots while implementing rotational access to avoid overcrowding.
  • Leverage Technology: Set up live-streaming services at collation centers that all accredited media houses can access remotely, reducing the need for physical presence.
  • Develop Clear Guidelines: Work with media associations to establish protocols for reporting at collation centers to avoid interference with official processes.

At its core, this issue isn’t just about media houses—it’s about every Ghanaian. The media is the public’s watchdog, ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and transparently. When their access is restricted, it’s not just their rights that are trampled—it’s ours.

Imagine an election night where results trickle out in whispers, unverified and speculative. Imagine the tension that misinformation could breed, all because journalists were barred from providing accurate, timely updates. That’s the danger we face if we don’t protect media freedom.

The EC has assured the public of its commitment to transparency. But actions speak louder than words. Engaging with GJA and GIBA is a step in the right direction, but the outcome of these discussions must reflect the principles of openness and accountability.

As citizens, we must also demand better. The media is our lifeline in this democratic process, and their ability to operate freely should be non-negotiable.

Because when the media is silenced, democracy suffocates. And Ghana, a nation that has prided itself on its democratic credentials, cannot afford to let that happen.

Source: myjoyonline.com

Editor’s note: Views expressed in this article do not represent that of The Chronicle

Editorial: Police Protection For Media Houses: Dwumfuor Led Coalition Goofs Badly

By
THE CHRONICLE
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Dr George Akuffo Dampare

Ghana is eight days away from the ninth consecutive presidential and parliamentary elections since the inception of the 4th Republic. Like every other election, security has become a priority in the quest to ensure violence-free voting and election activities.

This year, the National Election Security Taskforce, led by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, has assigned police officers to media houses as part of the security measures for the December7 elections.

Per the circular sent to the media houses, the assigned officers would promptly respond to any distress call for security intervention. They are not going to stay in the news rooms of the journalists to monitor their work.

The Chronicle finds the decision of the National Election Security Taskforce very welcoming, considering the fact that the stakes are high in this year’s elections.  Also, there have been situations in the past where journalists and media houses were attacked for executing their duties. We think that if an arrangement such as this was in place, the affected media house could have quickly called for help.

Just this week, one of the studios of Metro TV, owned by Ignite Media Group, was invaded by an Auctioneer and a Bailiff to execute a court order. It took the intervention of another police team dispatched by the IGP to remedy the situation and ensure calm. In this particular case, the assigned police officers would have been readily available to ensure law and order before the escalation of the situation, which reportedly recorded some injuries.

Since all of us will agree that the 2024 general elections are crucial, no aspect of safety, especially for the media, should be compromised. Ordinarily, media houses should beef up their own security, so the arrangement by the National Elections Security Taskforce comes in handy.

It is for this reason that we are shocked to learn about how the Media Coalition, in raising concerns about the initiative, surprisingly created a negative impression to mar the otherwise good intentions of the police.

Addressing a news conference at the International Press Centre on Thursday, November 28, 2024 the President of the Ghana Journalist Association (GJA), Albert Dwumfuor, on behalf of the Media Coalition, cast aspersions on the National Elections Security Taskforce to demean this laudable initiative

The Media Coalition, which is the professional umbrella bodies of the media industry in Ghana, who represent the interests and concerns of media practitioners and media houses, did not understand why it was not invited to the meeting the Taskforce held with some editors about the initiative.

Because of the role of the Coalition, it would have been appropriate if it had been invited to the meeting with the editors. So we completely agree with the concern they have raised.

That notwithstanding, we are appalled by the misreading and impressions the Coalition created, some of which made allegations against the National Elections Security Taskforce in the form of questions.

The Coalition said it believed that it was deliberate “rather than inadvertence,” not to be invited, “as the police try to avoid our role, eagle eye, and agility to protect and promote the interest of the media industry.”

It continued that, “First, is it a strategy to interfere with the work of the media? Is it a ploy to leak information from media houses? Which media houses have the Police enlisted to detail its media liaison officers to? We can see some dark clouds surrounding this initiative by the police, and answers to these questions will clear the sky.”

It must be stated that The Chronicle was not at the said meeting, but had information that senior editors and journalists who were present did not have qualms with the initiative. It is, therefore, surprising that the Media Coalition is criticising the initiative in this manner. It appears that the Coalition is registering its displeasure because they feel snubbed.

For us, we do not see how the National Elections Security Taskforce that intends to cow the media into silence would offer to provide them with security. In any case, the officers are not stationed at the premises of the media houses or in the newsrooms to warrant the question of whether it was a strategy to interfere in the work of the media house or leak information. The meeting said when a media house is in need of security, they should contact the liaison officers.

It is our position that, whereas the concern raised about not being invited to the stakeholder meeting is legitimate, but not obligatory, as there is no law to that effect; the Media Coalition should not have impugned such motives. They seem to be questioning the intelligence of the editors who met with the National Election Security Taskforce, where the initiative was discussed and accepted.

Indeed, there are other issues with the security agencies and the media, which should be addressed with all the arsenal at our disposal, as an inky fraternity, but on the assigned police liaison officers to media houses, Media Coalition, please you have goofed badly.

 

 

Baidoe Bonsu royal family head attacked

By
KWESI ALFRED ADAMS
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Ebusuapayin Bolo Kwaw in the pic on is hospital bed

The Chieftaincy dispute, which has characterised Ahanta, following the passing of the Overlord of the area, Otumfuo Baidoe Bonsoe XV, is becoming dirty.

Information available to The Chronicle indicates that, the Head of Otumfuo Baidoe Bonsoe XV royal Anona Busua Family, Septuagenarian Bolo Kwaw, has become the latest victim of acid bath, as a result of the dispute.

An unidentified person reportedly entered the room of Bolo Kwaw during the day and allegedly poured acid on him.

 

The assailant, according to reports, used the window of the victim as a passage to gain entry to perpetrate the crime.

A royal family Member, who confirmed the story to this reporter in a telephone interview, added that the assailant had still not been identified.

The victim, according to the family member, is currently battling for his life due to the severity attack.

The family Member said there is now fear and panic in the royal family over the dreadful acid bath and how the chieftaincy dispute has turned dirty.

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