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Kenya scraps bread tax as protesters tear-gassed

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Protesters angered by the new finance bill

Kenya’s government has scrapped some proposed taxes in this year’s controversial finance bill after a public outcry.

The announcement by MPs came as police fired tear gas and used water canon to try to disperse angry protesters in the capital, Nairobi.

The parliamentary finance committee has axed what would have been a 16% levy on bread as well as higher taxes on cooking oil and mobile money services.

Since coming to office in 2022, President William Ruto has introduced several new and unpopular taxes with the aim of eliminating the country’s national debt of nearly $80bn (£63bn).

But critics of the latest proposals fear they will stifle economic growth and lead to job losses.

The U-turn over the new finance bill was announced by Kuria Kimani, chairman of the parliamentary finance committee, at a press briefing attended by President Ruto as well as other lawmakers in the ruling coalition.

His finance team has been collecting public views on the bill and he said the decision to drop some of the proposals had been made to protect Kenyans from the increasing cost of living.

Other proposed taxes that have been axed include one on motor vehicles, which critics said would have also hit the insurance industry.

Mr Kimani also announced a reversal on a proposed eco tax that targeted products seen as having a negative impact on the environment, such as packaging, plastics and tyres.

It had faced a backlash with many arguing it would raise the cost of key goods such as nappies, sanitary towels, computers and mobile phones.

The levy would now only apply to imported goods, Mr Kimani said.

Mr Ruto did not speak or react during the briefing – but the move, which has been seen as succumbing to public pressure, will be a blow to his government.

Credit: bbc.com

Russia’s Putin to visit North Korea for the first time in 24yrs

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Russian President Putin shakes hands with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un

Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to arrive in North Korea later on Tuesday, in his first visit in 24 years, underlining the deepening ties between the two nuclear-armed states.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un extended an invitation to Putin when Kim visited Russia’s east in September for the first talks between the two men since 2019.

“At the invitation of the Chairman of State Affairs of the DPRK, Kim Jong Un, Vladimir Putin will pay a friendly state visit to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea on June 18-19,” the Kremlin said on Monday, using North Korea’s official name.

North Korea’s state news agency, KCNA, also announced the visit but offered no further details.

Putin last visited Pyongyang in July 2000, four months after he was first elected president. He met the country’s then-leader, Kim Jong Il, Kim’s father.

In a letter published in Tuesday’s edition of the Rodong Sinmun, the newspaper of North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party, Putin said the two countries had developed good relations and partnerships over the past 70 years based on equality, mutual respect and trust.

“We will develop alternative mechanisms of trade and mutual settlements that are not controlled by the West, and jointly resist illegitimate unilateral restrictions,” Putin wrote. “And at the same time – we will build an architecture of equal and indivisible security in Eurasia.”

He thanked North Korea for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine and promised to support Pyongyang to defend its interests against what he called “US pressure, blackmail and military threats”.

South Korea and the United States discussed the impending visit last week and expressed concerns about the implications for regional security of the two countries’ closer ties.

Credit: aljazeera.com

ECOWAS Court of Justice trains lawyers on Electronic Case Management System

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CJ Torkornoo ECOWAS team in a group photograph

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court of Justice has organised a sensitisation and training programme on the Electronic Case Management System (ECMS) for lawyers and government agents for English speaking member-states to increase efficiency and accessibility to justice.

The ECMS, borne out of the Covid-19 pandemic, had come to stay as a continuous means to leverage on technology to bridge gaps and overcome barriers to justice.

Justice Edward Amoako Asante, President of the Community Court of Justice, addressed the opening ceremony of the sensitisation and training programme in Accra, on Friday, June 14, 2024.

He said the aim of the training was to ensure a successful roll-out of the ECMS, which the court had committed itself to sensitising and training both private legal practitioners and government lawyers from all ECOWAS member states.

It will, therefore, equip lawyers with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the new system efficiently.

This training session is exclusively for Anglophone countries and same had been held in Lomé, Togo, for Francophone states early last week, all in the effort introduce the ECMS to lawyers in the Community.

“The sensitisation and training program aims to equip lawyers with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the new system efficiently,” Justice Asante said.

The ECMS involves electronic filling, service and notifications of court processes and on the request of parties, applications would be heard virtually on video-conferencing platforms such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

“Consistent with the Rules of Procedure and Practice Directions of the Court, the ECMS supports the electronic filing of applications and documents, automatic electronic service, and the electronic management of all aspects of cases from filing through delivery of judgment to post-judgment procedures and archiving of case files,” His Lordship Asante stated

The ECMS features two main modules with web interfaces – an external user portal for litigants and their lawyers, accessible 24/7, and an internal interface for judges and judicial staff.

In the short to long term, the ECMS would enhance accessibility to the Court for parties and significantly reduce the cost of litigation, which previously included expenses such as flight tickets to and from Abuja as well as hotel accommodations for parties and their lawyers.

The Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana, Gertrude Trokornoo expressed her gratitude to the ECOWAS Court for choosing Accra for this exercise, as it is a great honour.

She indicated that the training is the second time in two years that Ghana and its judiciary have hosted the ECOWAS Court.

Justice Torkornoo underscored the important of the sessions to the host country, as it serves as an opportunity for the bench and bar to observe the regional court in session and to learn more about the practice and procedure of the court.

Diana Asonaba Dapaah, a Deputy Attorney-General and Minister for Justice commended the training programme, as it is in tandem with the importance Ghana places on Information Technology in the administration of Justice.

“The introduction of the ECMS is not just a technological upgrade, but a strategic move to streamline our judicial processes, ensuring that they are efficient, transparent and accessible to all,” she said.

The Deputy Minister also said the sensitisation and training programme was timeous, giving that it will serve as a crucial conduit to close the knowledge gap between the Court and the public it represents, facilitating a deeper comprehension of the Court’s role, its mandate and procedure.

Furthermore, the ECMS will reform how court cases are managed by digitizing court procedures, thereby speeding up trials, ensuring accuracy in records, reducing cost, providing a seamless flow of case management and improving the delivery of Justice across the ECOWAS Member States.

She used the occasion to assure Ghana’s continuous effort to abide and remain committed to the values of the Court and the principles of international law and work in concert with the Court to ensure the effective functioning of the Court for the benefit of the sub-region.

Background of ECOWAS Court of Justice

The ECOWAS Court of Justice was established under the Lagos Treaty of 1975 and set up by an ECOWAS Protocol in 1991 and became operational in 2001, following the appointment of the first judges of the Court.

Under the 1993 ECOWAS Revised Treaty, the Court is designated as the principal judicial organ of the Community, charged with the interpretation and application of the Community’s legal texts.

Since 2005, the Court’s jurisdiction has been expanded by Member States to include the adjudication of human rights cases and these cases are brought before the court mostly by individuals and NGOs against member states and ECOWAS Institutions thereby playing a pivotal role in upholding fundamental human rights, the rule of law, and good governance within our sub-region.

 

Health benefits of drinking water

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You Stay Regular

It’s common to get a little constipated if you don’t drink enough water. Inactivity, diet changes, illness, and even stress can add to the problem. The constipation usually passes on its own, but you can help move things along with exercise, over-the-counter meds, and of course, water.

See a doctor if your constipation lasts for more than a week or two or you have dizziness, bad pain in your belly, or blood in your stool. These could be signs of something more serious.

Your Joints Work Better

Water makes up a large part of your joint cartilage that helps absorb shock and make bone-against-bone movements smoother. Water also can help keep gout (a painful joint condition) at bay. It helps flush toxins from your body that could inflame your joints, too.

You Sweat

And that’s a good thing! As sweat evaporates from your skin, it cools down your body. Have a couple of extra cups of water in the couple of hours before you head out for exercise. Try to take about drink 7 to 10 ounces of water every 10 to 20 minutes during exercise, too. Remember, you might not see the sweat you lose if you’re in the pool or an air-conditioned gym.

You Avoid Dehydration

Without enough water, you can sweat away too much fluid. You can also lose sodium and potassium that your body needs. It’s especially true in the heat. When it happens, you may be thirsty, pee less than usual, and your mouth might dry out. You could even feel dizzy, lightheaded, and confused.

Your Kidneys Stay Healthier

Water helps your kidneys remove waste from your blood. If you don’t get enough water, that waste — along with acids — can build up. That can lead to your kidneys getting clogged up with proteins called myoglobin. Dehydration can also lead to kidney stones and urinary tract infections.

You Keep Your Brain Sharp

You may not remember as well, think as clearly, or concentrate as easily when you’re low on water. And you don’t have to be seriously dehydrated. It can happen if you’re just a little below where you should be. How little? Less than 4 cups of water in a 150-pound person.

You Could Lose Weight

People who had just 2 or 3 more cups of water a day seem to have less fat, sugar, salt, and overall calories through the day. That means proper hydration could help you lose weight.

Extra water can replace empty, sugary calories many people drink with meals. Water also seems to speed up your metabolism, and it takes up space in your stomach so you feel more full.

Your Heart Works Better

Your ticker doesn’t have to work as hard when you drink enough water. In fact, even mild dehydration affects your blood vessels (making them less springy) about the same as smoking a cigarette. Skimping on water also leads to less blood in your body, which can lower your blood pressure and raise your heart rate. It takes just 15 to 20 minutes for enough water to even things out.

You’re Less Likely to Faint

You’re less likely to pass out when you give blood if you’ve had enough water. The same seems to be true if you’re careful to replace water lost through sweat or urine. When levels get a bit low, your blood pressure can drop and your nervous system can’t control it as well. That could make you faint. Watch out for this if it’s hot outside, and especially when you exercise.

How Much Is Enough?

A good rule of thumb is 15 cups a day for men and 11 cups for women. But keep in mind that includes total fluids. You get 20% to 30% of your water from food. You get more from other drinks like juice, tea, and milk. If you’re sick, you’ll need more (especially with diarrhea or vomiting). If you’re exercising or outside in the heat, focus on getting a little extra, too.

Don’t Have Too Much

Too much water can dilute the salt in your blood enough to make you sick (it’s called hyponatremia). Plus, you don’t want to overdo it if you have certain health issues or take drugs that cause you to retain water, like NSAIDs, opiates, antidepressants, or others. Drink enough to keep a hint of yellow in the color of your urine, but not so much that it’s always clear, or you spend all day in the bathroom. Talk to your doctor if you’re unsure.

Credit: webmd.com

National best cocoa farmers embark on an educational trip to UK

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The 2023 National Best Cocoa Farmer-Adwoa Sintim receiving her reward from Peter Mac Manu, board chair of COCOBOD

A delegation of fourteen (14) National Best Cocoa Farmers have embarked on an educational and familiarisation trip to the United Kingdom.

The contingent, made up of current and past award winners from 2019 to 2023, is expected to undertake a number of activities aimed at promoting the country’s cocoa sector, and offer them the opportunity to acquire knowledge and insight into the processes involved in the international cocoa trading system.

Amongst the activities to be undertaken by the delegation include visits to Cadbury and Mars Cocoa Processing Factories, meeting with the Ghanaian Business Community and also pay a courtesy call on the Ghana High Commission to the United Kingdom.

The team will also visit the Cocoa Research Institute of the United Kingdom to acquaint themselves with operations of the institution, which conducts research into cocoa.

Other key highlights of the visit will include participation in a Town Hall Meeting and UK Ghana Business Forum to be attended by the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana and later hold meeting with management of the Ghana International Bank (GIB-UK).

According to the Head of Public Affairs at COCOBOD, Mr. Fiifi Boafo, the trip will offer the farmers numerous benefits such as knowledge exchange, skills development, market access and understanding consumer’s preferences, quality standards and market demands.

Mr. Boafo further observed that the initiative was a demonstration of COCOBOD’s commitment to empowering farmers, building innovation and strengthening the cocoa industry.

According to him, management recognises the pivotal role cocoa farmers play in the country’s economy and the potential for growth through knowledge sharing in advanced farming techniques.

“The objective of management is to empower our hard working farmers by exposing them to global trends and building their confidence in the sector,” he emphasized. The delegation is expected to return to Ghana on Thursday, June 27.

Feature: Ministry of Lands should intervene in Land Guard Crisis

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Wisdom Koudjo Klu

The emergence of land guards has escalated conflicts over land ownership, posing a significant threat to peace and security in Ghanaian neighbourhoods. Initially employed to protect land, they have turned into illegal enforcers, vandalizing property and intimidating civilians.

This transformation has instilled fear among legitimate landowners, who constantly worry about the safety of their investments. Hired by opportunistic individuals, land guards unlawfully seize land, provoking violent confrontations and property destruction. The issue goes beyond legal and economic implications, affecting societal stability.

To uphold property rights and ensure stability, it’s essential to address the menace through a holistic approach that involves: the government, law enforcement, judiciary, and the public. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial to devising effective solutions that rebuild trust in land ownership and foster sustainable development of our nation. The criminal activities, of these guards, have dire consequences, leaving many Ghanaians facing emotional and financial hardship.

Viewpoint

Land guards in Ghana engage in illegal activities primarily due to several underlying reasons. One significant cause is the prevalence of land disputes, which arise from unclear ownership, conflicting claims, and inadequate legal mechanisms for resolution. This uncertainty creates opportunities for exploitation by land guards seeking financial gain. Moreover, ineffective law enforcement and corruption within the judicial system contribute to the spread of land guard activities, as perpetrators believe they can act without consequence.

Another key driver is the socio-economic environment. High levels of poverty and unemployment compel individuals to seek livelihoods in activities such as land guarding, despite their illegality. Additionally, political and elite support often shields land guards from prosecution, encouraging their involvement in unlawful land activities for personal or developmental gain.

Traditional and cultural factors also complicate land disputes in our country. Disputes rooted in traditional leadership systems and cultural practices intersect with modern land laws, leading to complex legal and social challenges that can escalate into violence involving land guards.

Furthermore, rapid urbanization and development increase demand for land, exacerbating existing disputes and providing opportunities for illegal occupation by land guards. Combined with limited public awareness about land rights and legal processes, these factors create conditions ripe for misinformation and manipulation by land guards.

Economic and Social Consequences

Activities of land guards have far-reaching consequences. Economically, they deter property investments and hinder development. The threat of violent land seizures dissuades individuals and businesses from buying and developing land, stalling economic progress. This instability also deters foreign investors who perceive Ghana as a risky investment destination.

Socially, the menace of land guards erodes trust in the legal system and the government’s capacity to protect its citizens. When people doubt their government’s ability to ensure property safety, it fosters a sense of helplessness and disenchantment. This loss of confidence can lead to increased social unrest and diminish community cohesion as individuals resort to self-defence and vigilantism to safeguard their interests.

A Plea for Comprehensive Measures

To effectively address the land guard crisis, a comprehensive strategy is necessary. The government must demonstrate a strong commitment to eradicating this menace through sustained action. Key measures include:

Strengthening Law Enforcement: Invest in training and equipping law enforcement agencies to combat land guard activities effectively. Establish specialized police units to address land-related crimes.

Combating Corruption: Implement enhanced anti-corruption measures to hold accountable those colluding with land guards within the system. This demands internal reforms within law enforcement agencies and robust oversight mechanisms.

Legal Reforms: Enact stringent legislation that criminalizes land guard activities and provides clear property protection guidelines. Expedite the judicial process to resolve land disputes and reduce the backlog of cases leading to land guard hiring.

Public Awareness and Community Engagement: Educate the public on their rights and legal avenues for settling land disputes. Involve communities in monitoring and reporting land guard activities to curb this menace.

Technological Solutions: Implement modern land registration and monitoring systems to mitigate disputes. A transparent and accessible land registry that documents ownership clearly can impede land guard operations. Digital tools can enhance surveillance and prompt responses to land guard incidents.

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources must play a crucial role in implementing these measures to effectively address the land guard crisis.

Conclusion

The land guard crisis is a complex challenge requiring coordinated efforts. The government must take decisive action to safeguard citizens’ property rights and re-establish trust in the legal system. Through a blend of enhanced law enforcement, anti-corruption measures, legal reforms, public education, and technological advancements, We can aim to eliminate this problem.

Immediate action is crucial for national peace, security, and development. By addressing the root causes and implementing sustainable measures, Ghana can create a safer, more secure environment for citizens, ensuring property rights are upheld, and economic progress is not impeded by the land guard threat.

By Wisdom Koudjo Klu

(wisdomklu@gmail.com)

Today’s Euro 2024 Matches Preview:

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Germany Jamal Musiala

Germany title credentials to be tested in Hungary grudge match

Euro 2024 host Germany will get a better idea of whether its blend of youth and experience can sustain a title challenge when it takes on a Hungary side on Wednesday eager to bounce back from a disappointing result in its Group A opener. Germany ran riot in a 5-1 win over 10-man Scotland in the tournament’s first match while Hungary slipped to a 3-1 defeat against Switzerland.

Young forwards Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz gave Germany fans hope that a new era beckons for the national team but they will carry the memory of Hungary winning 1-0 in Leipzig in the Nations League in September 2022.

Germany is winless in its last three meetings against a Hungary side led by young captain Dominik Szoboszlai who was visibly frustrated in its opening defeat in Cologne as the tournament’s dark horse failed to get up to speed.

The 23-year-old did set up a goal for team mate Barnabas Varga and the duo will be key to their team’s chances of getting their first points on the board having both grabbed four goals in Hungary’s excellent qualifying campaign.

However, coach Marco Rossi knows that any of the same sloppiness that was on display from his side against the Swiss will be ruthlessly exploited by the Germans who play with a fluid intensity under manager Julian Nagelsmann.

The German coach employed Kai Havertz as a front man to draw space for Wirtz and Musiala to drive at defenders either side, a system likely to be used again as the team seek to wrap up a spot in the knockout stage.

However, Nagelsmann is wary of Hungary’s relationist system – where players are free to dictate the play between each other using their individual talents, rather than sticking to a positional doctrine and rigid formation.

Credit: sportstar.thehindu.com

 

 

Scotland seek to restore a sense of pride against Switzerland

Having suffered the heaviest-ever opening defeat at the men’s European Championships, Scotland seek to restore a sense of pride on Wednesday, when they resume Euro 2024 Group A against Switzerland in Cologne.

Scotland

After Steve Clarke‘s men were embarrassed 5-1 by tournament hosts Germany, their Rossocrociati counterparts managed to avoid the same fate by defeating Hungary 3-1.

The Tartan Army’s party was the talk of the town before Scotland had the honour of kicking off the first match of this year’s European Championships, but the celebrations of their ardent supporters were quickly curtailed as a glorious German outfit ripped Clarke’s meek men to shreds in Munich.

Already rooted to fourth place in the Group A standings after Friday’s chastening experience, Scotland will be out of top-two contention with a defeat – no matter the scoreline in Germany and Hungary’s battle – and will be more or less consigned to the same fate with a draw, but Clarke’s men still have 180 minutes to save their Euros bacon.

While Scotland were left to dissect a lacklustre showing at the Allianz Arena, Switzerland deservedly went into the break two goals to the good against Hungary.

Scotland’s attackers barely saw the ball against Germany, partly thanks to Die Mannschaft’s brilliant display and partly due to their perpetually sloppy passing, and a sturdy Swiss side will not give too much away either.

While Yakin’s men did go to sleep briefly against Hungary, their three points were merited, and we can only envisage Switzerland sealing their top-two placement while inflicting familiar Euros misery on the Scots.

Credit: sportsmole.co.uk

Croatia, Albania faceoff in in Group B

Both playing catch-up in Group B, Croatia and Albania cannot afford to lose when they meet in Hamburg on Wednesday afternoon.

Having been beaten in their Euro 2024 openers last weekend, the two teams will aim to stay in contention for a place in the tournament’s knockout phase.

Kovacic, Croatia

Tipped by some pundits to finally bring home some silverware this summer, Croatia started their seventh European Championship appearance – and sixth in succession – with a humbling 3-0 defeat to Spain in Berlin.

Instead, Croatia must try to arrest a decline featuring three defeats from their last five competitive matches, having also been beaten by Turkey and Wales in qualifying – that is as many losses as throughout the previous 29.

While Croatia are seasoned campaigners at the Euros, this summer marks only Albania’s second appearance since gaining independence – both coming in the last three editions.

While the Croatian camp has yet to report any fresh injuries, Albania forward Jasir Asani is a major doubt due to an ankle problem. Therefore, Germany-born Arber Hoxha – who plays his club football for Dinamo Zagreb – may be promoted from the bench.

Either Rey Manaj or Chelsea’s Armando Broja should spearhead the Albanian attack, as Sokol Cikalleshi – a regular fixture during qualifying – was omitted from Sylvinho’s squad and subsequently announced his international retirement.

Once again, the central striker’s support comes from Sassuolo schemer Nedim Bajrami, who has recorded at least one goal involvement in each of his last three national team appearances – two goals and two assists.

The stakes are already high in these nations’ second Group B contest, as defeat would almost certainly mean elimination from Euro 2024.

While they did not impress in their opener, Croatia’s vast experience should see them past a committed Albania side that may well be bound for the exit.

Credit: sportsmole.co.uk

K’si traders to Bawumia: Frema Opare Is The Ideal Candidate … to break ‘the 8’

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Hon Akosua Frema Osei Opare, Ghana’s Chief of Staff

The leadership and ordinary members of the Kejetia Dubai Traders Association in Kumasi have appealed to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr Mahamadu Bawumia, to count on the leadership qualities of Mrs Akosua Frema Osei-Opare and choose her as his running mate.

Kwame NPP advocating support for Frema Osei-Opare

According to the traders, they could count on the Chief of Staff to deliver as Dr Bawumia’s lieutenant and partner to secure the Presidency for the NPP in the December elections.

In an encounter with the media last Friday, the group said women must be well represented in government and that the choice of Madam Frema Osei-Opare as Dr Bawumia’s running would adequately address this requirement.

Mr Kwame Yeboah alias Kwame NPP, chairman of the Kejetia Dubai Traders Association, pleaded with the flagbearer not to look beyond Madam Frema Osei-Opare, who has the interest of women at heart.

He said the Chief of Staff is an advocate of the Affirmative Action Bill that seeks to provide gender parity in Ghanaian politics.The bill aims to increase women’s participation in decision making positions and that at least 40% of public offices be reserved for them.

“Her role in pushing that the Bill  passed into law makes her the best qualified to partner the flagbearer besides the Ashanti factor in the choice of a running mate”, the chairman stressed.

Mr Kwame Yeboah noted that Madam Frema Osei-Opare has always championed the cause of traders and women being the most populous (18 million – about 51%) of the Ghanaian populace for which she must be empowered to represent women in government to further contribute to the forward march of the country.

Adiza Yakubu rooting for the No. 1 Civil servant

Kwame NPP also referred to Madam Osei-Opare’s exploits at the Presidency as the Chief of Staff over the past seven and half years, which has positioned her as the best bet for the NPP ticket.

Madam Adiza Yakubu and Agya Owusu, both members of the association, said Madam Frema Osei-Opare is a role model for the Ghanaian woman and a pacesetter who has contributed to the success story of the Akufo-Addo-led administration.

“She is dedicated to the welfare of women generally and has, on countless occasions, provided relief to hard-pressed  women in critical situations,” the advocates stressed and pleaded with the flagbearer and the top hierarchy of the party to consider her choice in the best interest of  the party in order to break ‘the 8’.

Adiza Yakubu mentioned that Madam Frema Osei-Opare’s active involvement in the effective running of government machinery in her capacity as the first female Chief of Staff saw to the effective implementation of social intervention policies over the last seven years and deserves to be celebrated. According to them, Madam Frema Osei-Opare has used her own resources to provide solace for distressed members of the public, particularly women.

Dame vrs Jakpa: Fireworks Expected In Court Today

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BERNICE BESSEY
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Jakpa and Dame

Richard Jakpa, founder and Chief Executive of jakpa@business and third accused (A3) in the ongoing ambulance trial has, since May 23, 2024, been running a man-show about how Godfred Yeboah Dame, Attorney-General and Minster of Justice, wanted him to cooperate in his alleged grand scheme to jail Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson (A1), minority leader in Parliament.

Although the Attorney-General’s (A-G) Department through various news releases and interviews has responded to some of the allegations Mr. Jakpa has made, the two ‘combatants’ have the opportunity to confront each other today.

Alfred Tuah Yeboah, Deputy A-G and minister for Justice, had already served a notice during a brief interview with the media  last Thursday, June 13, that the prosecution will not allow whatever testimony given by A3 to  go  unchallenged.

According to Tuah,   the public would be marvelled when the prosecution team starts their cross examination.  “You rest it there and wait for our side of the matter and you will be marveled,” he told the media.

A3 through the lawyers of A1 (Ato Forson) successfully tendered into evidence a secretly recorded audio conversation related to the ongoing trial between himself and the A-G.

The Deputy Minister however believes the leaked audio will not have any significant impact on the matter before the Accra High because the content is already known and by far, they are not bothered by it.

From all indications, the prosecution may attempt to dismantle A3’s testimony with counter evidence during cross-examination before Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, Court of Appeal Judge with additional duty of the High Court.

The court ruled on June 6 that it made no findings on the audio that the A-G was impressing upon A3 to cooperate with him to secure sentence against A1, but Mr. Jakpa, at the last adjourned date, went the extra mile to make a number of pronouncements on it.

Mr Dame, on the other hand, had been strongly advised by the court not to be directly involved in the case. It is, however, not clear whether after the A-G has accepted the advice, but he has not made any appearance in court during the last two sittings.

It is also not certain whether the A-G will be appearing today to conduct the cross-examination personally after A1’s lead counsel – Dr Abdul Baasit Aziz Bamba and Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe – had taken their turn to cross-examine A3.

Earlier, the prosecution requested to cross-examine A3 for four hours but the A-G personally prayed the court for additional hour, following the new twist.

The likes of Martin Kpabu, a private legal practitioner, had predicted things would be murkier on Tuesday than the prosecution was trying to portray.

Speaking on TV3 ‘The Key Point’ panel discussion on last week’s Saturday, Mr Kpebu claimed A3 would have a field day while the prosecution’s case will go from bad to worse.

Dr. Ato Forson and Mr. Jakpa were charged together with the former Director of Ministry of Health, Dr Sylvester Anemana who has been discharged on health grounds, for wilfully causing financial loss of €2.37 million to the state.

Ghana Joins Shelter Afrique Development Bank Board

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Mr Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah- Minister for Works and Housing

Ghana has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Shelter Afrique Development Bank, a Pan-African housing finance and development institution. The win at the 43rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Kigali, Rwanda, on June 13, 2024 makes Ghana one of six countries to steer the affairs of the Bank.

Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, who led Ghana’s delegation to the AGM expressed optimism about the opportunities this development will unlock for the country.

Shelter Afrique has been pivotal in promoting affordable housing across the continent. This year’s AGM, themed “Sustainable Partnerships in the Affordable Housing Finance Value Chain,” brought together representatives from member states, financial institutions, and development partners. The primary focus was on transforming Shelter Afrique into a dynamic development bank that meets international standards.

Addressing the media, on the side-lines of the meeting, Minister Oppong Nkrumah highlighted the significance of Ghana’s new position.

“Securing a seat on the Board of Shelter Afrique is a strategic victory for Ghana. This development not only enhances our influence within the organization but also positions us to attract more resources to support our affordable housing initiatives,” he stated.

Mr Oppong Nkrumah in a groip picture with members of the Board

The Minister emphasized that increasing Ghana’s presence in Shelter Afrique is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its shareholding and leadership role within the bank. “Our increased presence at Shelter Afrique will enable us to tap into a wealth of resources and expertise. This will significantly boost our efforts in rolling out affordable housing projects and providing mortgages to make these homes accessible to our citizens,” Oppong Nkrumah explained.

The AGM marked a pivotal moment for Shelter Afrique, as underscored by its Managing Director, Thierno Habib Hann. “This AGM marks a decisive turning point to affirm our journey of transformation,” Hann remarked. The meeting’s discussions centered around fortifying the organization’s operational framework and aligning it with international best practices to better serve its member states.

For Ghana, this new board seat is a testament to the country’s commitment to addressing its housing deficit. Currently, Ghana faces a significant housing shortfall, with demand far outstripping supply, particularly in urban areas. The government has been proactive in seeking partnerships and investments to bridge this gap, and its engagement with Shelter Afrique is a critical part of these efforts.

Minister Oppong Nkrumah reiterated the government’s dedication to leveraging this new position for the greater good. “With this seat, we are better positioned to influence decisions that directly impact our housing sector. We will advocate for policies and initiatives that support our national housing agenda and ensure that the benefits of our membership in Shelter Afrique are fully realized,” he added.

The Minister also expressed gratitude to the member states and partners who supported Ghana’s bid for the board seat. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to our fellow member states and partners for their confidence in Ghana’s capabilities. This collective effort underscores the spirit of cooperation and shared goals that define Shelter Afrique,” he said.

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