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Togo opposition leader courts for Ghana’s support to reverse constitutional changes

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Dr. Jean-Emmanuel Gnagnon

Dr. Jean-Emmanuel Gnagnon, the leader and presidential candidate of the Togolese Movement for Restoration (MTR), has arrived in Ghana to seek support from the Ghanaian people in resolving the political crisis in Togo.

Dr. Gnagnon and vice president of the party, Advocate Brice Afatsawo-Kpotor, are on a mission to rally international support against the recent constitutional changes in Togo, which they believe undermine democracy and the people’s right to elect their leader.

Dr. Jean-Emmanuel Gnagnon

During a visit to the Kwame Nkrumah Museum in Accra, Dr. Gnagnon expressed his disapproval of the new legislation, which grants parliament the power to elect the president, effectively denying citizens their right to vote.

He emphasised that the MTR is committed to promoting peace, socialism, and progress in Africa and is determined to challenge this undemocratic move.

Dr. Gnagnon plans to meet with key stakeholders in Ghana, including the National Chief Imam, the Christian Council, and the National Peace Council, to garner support for the Togolese people’s cause. He believes that international pressure can help reverse the constitutional changes and ensure a democratic and inclusive political process in Togo.

The recent constitutional amendments, adopted by Togolese lawmakers on March 25, have sparked controversy and opposition from various quarters. The changes introduce a parliamentary system, where the president will be elected by lawmakers for a single six-year term, without public input. The president’s powers will be significantly reduced, with the president of the council of ministers assuming full authority and accountability for managing the government.

The MTR, launched on February 24, 2024, is a progressive socialist party that prioritizes citizen responsibility, tolerance, social justice, and shared prosperity.

As the next elections approach, the party is positioning itself as a champion of political restoration, the rule of law and human rights in Togo.

By seeking support from Ghana and other international partners, Dr. Gnagnon and the MTR aim to build a strong coalition to challenge the undemocratic forces in Togo and ensure a brighter future for the Togolese people.

I won’t sacrifice natural justice on altar of corruption fight -Prez

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MAXWELL OFORI
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President Akufo-Addo addressing the inauguration of the Law House in Accra.

The President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has indicated that he will adhere to the rules of natural justice in the fight against corruption. Accordingly, a mere allegation of corruption does not mean wrongdoing, thus the need for due process to be followed, which he has been doing.

President Akufo-Addo said this on Monday, June 10, 2024 at the commissioning of the state-of-the-art office complex for the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice.

Addressing the gathering of law lords, lawyers and other guests, he used the opportunity to comment on former President Mahama referring to him as a “clearing agent.”

“…I am sure we are all aware of the statement by the former president and perennial NDC presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama, stigmatising me as a clearing agent because, for him, mere allegation without more is enough to merit the condemnation of an accused public official, especially one of my administrators.

“For my part, and let me state it again for the record, I will not set aside due process and the rule of natural justice on the altar of the fight against corruption, no matter how much opprobrium this position incurs for me,” he added.

ASSURANCE

President Akufo-Addo underscored the paramount importance of law enforcement and the rule of law, especially in the context of the upcoming critical election year, and assured Ghanaians that the law enforcement agencies will do their best to ensure that law and order prevail in the country at all times.

“In so saying, I want to use the opportunity of this platform to reassure the Ghanaian people that the law enforcement agencies of the state, including the Office of the Attorney-General, will do all within their power to ensure that law and order prevail in the country at all times, especially during this critical election year,” President Akufo-Addo asserted.

Recognising that the election is approaching, President Akufo-Addo emphasised that the ambitions of any political party or presidential candidate would not be allowed to compromise the nation’s hard-earned peace, security and stability. “It will not happen,” he said bluntly.

ENFORCEMENT

However, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the nation’s robust legal framework and made it clear that laws on vigilantism and other relevant statutes would be rigorously enforced to safeguard the tranquility of the country.

He said that his government owed its commitment to ensuring the enforcement of the law to the good people of Ghana, who have consistently demonstrated their deep attachment to peaceful democratic values.

President Akufo-Addo called for continuous adaptation and evolution of the legal system to meet the changing needs of society while maintaining a steadfast commitment to justice, fairness, and equality for all.

“The rule of law is not a static concept. It is a living principle that requires constant nurturing and vigilance,” he reminded the audience.

THE LAW HOUSE

The President also reflected on the significance of the commissioning of the Law House, saying that the event was not just a celebration of a new building but of a collective commitment to the rule of law and justice.

“It is proof of our belief that a strong legal system is essential for the development and prosperity of our nation,” he said.

He further stated that the inauguration of the edifice not only celebrated the new infrastructure but also reinforced Ghana’s dedication to the principles of justice and the rule of law, ensuring that peace and democratic values remain at the core of the nation’s development.

Chief Justice commends government

The Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, commended the government for the edifice, and advocated its replication across the country.

The President of the Ghana Bar Association, Yaw Boafo also commended the government for allocating funds for such project.

However, he bemoaned the poor state of infrastructure of the office of the A-G across the country, and called for improvement.

CIMG Unveils Ghana’s First Regional Brand Index Report

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JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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Dignaries prensent at the launch display the brand index report booklet

The Chartered Institute of Marketing, Ghana (CIMG) has launched its maiden Regional Brand Index (RBI) Coffee Table Publication and the 35th Annual National Marketing Performance Awards.

Mrs. Nana Ama Poku, Deputy Managing Director of Corporate Resources at CBG, served as the Chairperson for the evening.

Dr. Kasser Tee, National President of Chartered Institute of Marketing, Ghana (CIMG), has described the CIMG Annual National Marketing Performance Awards as the longest-standing and most credible awards in Ghana, celebrating its 35th edition this year.

“We organise these awards annually to create awareness about the relevance of marketing for running successful businesses, promote higher standards for marketing performance and champion the interests of consumers,” Dr. Tee explained.

He was speaking at the launch of the maiden Regional Brand Index (RBI) Coffee Table Publication and the 35th Annual National Marketing Performance Awards in Accra recently.

Dr. Tee expressed gratitude to the numerous donors, sponsors and past awardees who have supported the CIMG awards over the years.

“We cannot tell the success story of the CIMG awards without mentioning our numerous donors, the support we receive in diverse ways from sponsors, the pride with which awardees receive and cherish our awards, and the solid commitment of the team of assessors,” he acknowledged.

The second part of the evening focused on the unveiling of the 2023 Ghana Regional Brand Index (GH-RBI) publication.

Dr. Tee highlighted the significance of this pioneering project, which aims to leverage research to promote regional brands within Ghana.

“The Coffee Table Publication we launch today encapsulates the rich diversity, vibrancy, and potentials of each of the 16 regional brands in Ghana,” he noted.

Dr. Tee urged regional leaders to strategically communicate and promote their regions’ unique attributes to create and nurture strong brand identities.

“It is imperative for each region to embark on a journey of deliberate and strategic communications to champion and promote their virtues as they strive to build resilient brand identity,” he said.

Mr. Andrew Egyapa Mercer, the Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture in his speech highlighted the multifaceted benefits of the Regional Brand Index report, emphasising its critical role in shaping policy decisions, tourism product development and attracting potential investors.

The minister underscored the importance of this report in providing detailed insights that will aid policy makers in understanding each region’s strengths and areas for improvement.

“A data-driven approach in policy making and intervention will significantly aid the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and other governmental bodies, in formulating policies that are tailored to the specific needs and potentials of each region,” the Minister stated.

The Minister also noted that the insights from the index will facilitate the creation of more effective marketing campaigns that highlight the distinct attractions of each region.

Additionally, he said the Regional Brand Index will serve as an invaluable resource for investors, providing a clear picture of the investment landscape across Ghana.

“The launch of the Regional Brand Index Report is a significant milestone in our journey towards achieving a well-balanced and prosperous Ghana,” the Minister remarked.

“It underscores our commitment to recognizing and harnessing the unique potentials of each region, fostering inclusive growth, and promoting our rich cultural heritage and tourism.”

Mr. Theodore Osae, Vice President of CIMG and Chairman of the Awards Planning and Selection Committee, also addressed the attendees, emphasising the Institute’s dedication to maintaining high standards and credibility in the awards process.

APC, PDP are the same – Salihu Lukman

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Salihu Lukman

An erstwhile National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Salihu Lukman, has said that there is no difference between the ruling party and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

Lukman, who made this statement while speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics monitored by DAILY POST, said the APC was now becoming worse than the PDP it came to replace.

According to him, the PDP was becoming a one-man show where internal democracy had been dumped and candidates imposed on the electorate, stressing that it was the reason they came up with the APC.

The APC chieftain said they came up with the idea of the opposition parties merging to defeat the PDP and correct some of the anomalies noticed at that time.

“We were clear on the kind of party APC should be. We saw the weaknesses of the PDP, apart from the imposition of candidates, part of the problem was that elected candidates were not accountable to the party or anybody and we thought building the APC would depart from that and that was where the slogan ‘change’ came from.

“When the debate about the manifesto of the party was going on, the conception was that the party was going to be social democratic with a priority on the issues of health, education and social services but the party has deviated,” Lukman said.

Lukman said part of the party’s problems started from Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, adding that the President was like an emperor because he was the singular electoral asset of the party.

“We were hoping with Asiwaju (President Bola Ahmed Tinubu), things will start changing,” he said, lamenting that things rather got worse.

“We are having a party where some of its organs have not been convened since its formation. We are having a party in which for one year no meeting has taken place and that party is controlling the government,” the APC chieftain lamented.

Credit: dailypost.ng

Mahama’s Promise Of Incentives To Teachers Laudable

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THE CHRONICLE
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Editorial

John Dramani Mahama, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has promised that teachers who accept to be posted to rural areas in Ghana to teach will get an incentive of 20 percent of their salary, when he is elected President on December 7, 2024.

This is one of the numerous campaign messages of Mr Mahama, who is the flag bearer of the opposition NDC.Mr Mahama, who served as President from June 2012 to January 6, 2017 is seeking re-election on the ticket of the NDC.

In a Facebook post, Mr Mahama reiterated one of his campaign messages on the education sector about the welfare of teachers and incentives.“Teachers who agree to serve in a rural school will be paid 20 percent of their salary as incentives. This will encourage teachers to accept to serve in rural schools,” Mr Mahama said.

The Chronicle holds the view that quality education is a right for every child and commends Mr. Mahama for this bold and visionary proposal. We are happy with the way the various flagbearers of the political parties are serving Ghanaians with their manifesto policies and programmes. The 2024 elections must be a battle of wits and minds and not the display of electoral thuggery and violence.

Most of the rural areas are understaffed with teachers and the unfortunate thing is that the rural pupils and students write the same exams with their colleagues in the urban areas where the teacher-student ratio is higher.

The challenge of attracting qualified teachers to rural areas is a long-standing issue in the country. Many rural schools struggle with inadequate staff, leading to subpar educational outcomes for students in these regions. By offering a 20 percent salary incentive, Mr. Mahama aims to make rural postings more attractive, ensuring that every child, regardless of their geographical location, has access to quality education.

This policy is not just about financial incentives; it is about valuing the dedication and hard work of teachers who often go the extra mile under challenging conditions. It is an acknowledgment of their crucial role in shaping the future of our nation. This incentive could also inspire a new generation of teachers who are motivated by both financial reward and the opportunity to make a significant impact in rural communities.

Mr. Mahama, who served as President from June 2012 to January 2017, is no stranger to addressing educational challenges. His previous tenure saw various initiatives aimed at improving the educational infrastructure and access. This new proposal aligns with his track record and reinforces his commitment to education as a cornerstone of national development.

Beyond improving the immediate educational outcomes, this policy could have far-reaching implications. Enhanced education in rural areas can contribute to reducing poverty, promoting economic development and fostering social equity. Educated individuals are better equipped to contribute to their communities, creating a positive ripple effect that can drive sustainable development in rural Ghana.

While political campaigns often highlight the differences between candidates, certain initiatives transcend party lines and deserve broad support. This incentive for rural teachers is one such policy.

It addresses a fundamental issue that affects the nation’s future and should be supported by all stakeholders, regardless of political affiliation. We urge all educators, policymakers and citizens to support initiatives that bring us closer to an equitable and thriving educational landscape in Ghana.

Police call for calm as Ondo youths protest ‘assault’ by EFCC operatives

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Youths protest alleged assualt by EFCC operatives

The Ondo State Police Command has called for calm as youths stormed major roads in Akure, the Ondo State capital, to protest alleged brutality of the operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

EFCC operatives had in the early hours of Saturday stormed two night clubs in Akure, arresting 127 youths they alleged to be internet fraudsters.

According to the protesters, EFCC operatives molested the youths, arrested some and damaged some properties.

The protesters, armed with placards to express their grievances, called for justice for their friends.

The Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development in Ondo State, Saka Ogunleye, appealed to the youths to calm down, saying the government would resolve the matter.

Meanwhile, in a statement posted on its official X handle, the EFCC noted that the 127 youths arrested during the operations were suspected internet fraudsters.

The commission insisted that the operatives neither brutalised anyone nor damaged any property during the operation.

Credit: channelstv.com

CSNF organise walk to mark cancer awareness month

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JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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Some participants at the Cancer Survivors Walk

The Cancer Support Network Foundation (CSNF) kicked off Cancer Awareness Month with a well patronised Cancer Survivors Walk over the weekend. The event, held on June 8, 2024 commenced at 6:30 am from Accra Girls Senior High School and concluded at El-Wak Sports Stadium.

The walk saw the participation of hundreds of cancer survivors, their families, medical professionals and supporters from all walks of life, coming together to celebrate resilience and promote awareness.

The walk is the first in a series of programmes organised by CSNF to mark Cancer Awareness Month, designated globally to raise awareness about cancer, encourage early detection and celebrate the strength of survivors.

After the walk, a total amount of GHC16,100 was donated to four cancer patients to aid in their treatment.

In an interview with Blaise Akom, Secretary of CSNF, he emphasised the significance of the walk and the month-long campaign.

“Today being the 8th of June, we’ve gathered here this morning to celebrate all cancer survivors. June is designated as Cancer Survivors Month and Cancer Support Network Foundation has designated this day to help celebrate these women. So we had a walk this morning just to let them know that they are not alone,” he stated.

Mr. Akom highlighted the importance of community support in the fight against cancer, addressing the stigma that often surrounds the disease.

“Most of the stigma surrounding cancer has been something that most people are shying away from. So we are encouraging them that they are better felt in the society. So they should be bold to tell their stories so that it will inspire others,” he added.

The event is aimed not only to celebrate survivors, but also to encourage regular cancer screenings and preventive measures.

“We try to encourage everyone to take their cancer screenings very seriously, especially with those ones that we can screen off. Don’t wait till you are hit by cancer. Cancer is just closer to us. Don’t think that cancer is far away from you,” Mr Akom advised.

Mr. Akom provided insights into the various types of cancer screenings that individuals should consider based on their risk factors. He stressed the importance of breast cancer screening, cervical cancer screening and vaccinations for HPV among children aged 9 to 14.

“Early detection is very key. When you see it early, much can be done for you. It’s not only about cancer then. We have millions of people who have survived the condition,” he said.

Additionally, he warned against lifestyle choices that increase cancer risks, such as smoking and the use of shisha.

“Smoking has become a common thing in the system, where about 69 chemicals have been found in cigarette that can cause cancer. And aside from those impacts, now they’ve tried to modernise smoking into shisha.

A session of shisha is equal to about 100 sticks of cigarettes. So there’s no safe method of smoking,” he cautioned.

The walk was a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of awareness in combating cancer. CSNF aims to make this event an annual fixture in Ghana, fostering a culture of support and proactive health measures within the community.

As the participants reached El-Wak Sports Stadium, the sense of achievement and hope was palpable.

The Cancer Support Network Foundation’s commitment to celebrating survivors and promoting cancer awareness was evident, setting a positive tone for the activities lined up for Cancer Awareness Month.

Social Movement, She Leads call for prioritisation of menstrual health, rights

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Ms. Racheal Mpere delivering her keynote address

Members of ‘Social Movement’, a young women advocacy group of Defence for Children International (DCI-GHANA) and the She Leads project, are calling on the government to prioritise menstrual health and rights, so that every person who menstruates can feel empowered to manage their period with confidence and dignity.

Section of the participants

The group maintained that, “menstruation is a natural biological process, yet it has been shrouded in secrecy, shame and misinformation. In many cultures, menstruating individuals face discrimination, exclusion and even violence”, a practice which is unacceptable.

Ms. Racheal Mpere, member of the movement, said in a keynote address in Kumasi to climax activities commemorating the 2024 World Menstrual Hygiene Day that achieving a “period friendly world” collectively behoves on governments, businesses and individuals to prioritise menstrual health and rights, and create inclusive policies and challenge societal norms.

The programme was by Defence for Children International (DCI-GHANA), an NGO, under the She Leads project.

Ms. Mpere explained that the campaign is to raise awareness about menstruation and dispel the myths and misconceptions that perpetuate stigma and to lobby for policies and legislation that protect the rights of menstruating individuals.

There were also intergenerational dialogue with female leaders on leadership and young female leaders in tertiary institutions on Girls and Young Women (GYW) representation and inclusion in decision making as well as advocacy messages and a call to action by GYW and Social Movement on issues affecting young women.

Ms. Edusei Yaa Kpodo, of the Presbyterian University, who is also the She Leads United Nations Advocate and Ms. Hama Zulienatu, First Female SRC President elect of Kessben University, admonished the GYW to be “determined, focused and disciplined” if they aspire to occupy leadership positions in society.

From Thomas Agbenyegah Adzey, Kumasi 

Labour vows to reject ₦100,000 ‘starvation wage’, may resume strike Tuesday

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Nigeria Labour

The Organised Labour says it won’t accept any ₦62,000 or ₦100,000 “starvation wage” as the minimum wage for Nigerian workers.

Chris Onyeka, an Assistant General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), stated this on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief show on Monday.

He insisted on ₦250,000, labour’s latest demand at the last meeting of the Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage on Friday, as the living wage for an average Nigerian worker.

He said labour won’t accept the latest government’s offer of ₦62,000 and the ₦100,000 proposal by some individuals and economists.

Onyeka said, “We have never considered accepting ₦62,000 or any other wage that we know is below what we know is able to take Nigerian workers home. We will not negotiate a starvation wage.

“We have never contemplated ₦100,000 let alone of ₦62,000. We are still at ₦250,000, that is where we are, and that is what we considered enough concession to the government and the other social partners in this particular situation. We are not just driven by frivolities but the realities of the market place; realities of things we buy every day: bag of rice, yam, garri, and all of that.”

He said the one-week grace period given to the Federal Government last Tuesday, June 4, 2024, would expire by the midnight of Tuesday, June 11, 2024.

Labour said should the Federal Government and National Assembly fail to act on the demands of workers by tomorrow (Tuesday), the organs of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) would meet to decide on the resumption of the nationwide industrial action relaxed last week.

Credit: channelstv.com

Newmont’s Annual ‘Read to Inspire’ Project Enhances Literacy in Community Schools

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A headmistress receiving items from Newmont BRG

Newmont’s Women and Allies Business Resource Group (BRG) in Ahafo recently conducted its annual ‘Read to Inspire’ outreach program, aimed at fostering a love for reading and improving literacy among basic school students in the Ahafo mine and Ahafo North projects’ host communities. Through this initiative the group provides books, resources, and mentorship to selected schools in need.

This year, the BRG distributed over 10,000 exercise books, textbooks, and other stationery to five schools, along with volunteers who engaged in reading sessions with students. Since 2017, the Women and Allies BRG has supported schools in Newmont’s host communities through donations and mentoring for Basic and Junior High School (JHS) students.

The stationery items, voluntarily donated by employees and contractors, not only support educational needs but also introduce junior high students to potential careers in the mining industry.

Newmont’s Women and Allies Business Resource Group (BRG) is one of the company’s diversity and inclusion initiatives aimed at fostering a supportive and inclusive environment within the organization. The group focuses on empowering women and their allies through various initiatives, activities, and programmes.

The schools selected this year included Afrisipakrom Roman Catholic Cluster of Schools, Susuanso Roman Catholic, Susuanso Presbyterian School, and the Methodist and Roman Catholic Basic Schools in Kenyasi No. 1.

Member of BRG interacting with students

Mr. Peter Vaadi, the headmaster of Afrisipakrom Roman Catholic Cluster of Schools, expressed gratitude, saying, “We thank Newmont for its support to communities in this enclave, and we will ensure that the donation is used for its intended purpose. Considering that we just started a new term, this donation will greatly support teaching and learning.”

Similarly, Charlotte Baffour Awuah, headmistress of Susuanso Roman Catholic School, thanked the BRG and highlighted the impact on students preparing for their exams.

At the Methodist Basic School in Kenyasi 1, headmistresses Ruth Kyeremeh and Abina Effa Diawuo, along with Mr. Samuel Boadi of Ramam Catholic, also expressed their appreciation and committed to using the supplies effectively.

Knowing the value of educational resources, Newmont Women and Allies BRG has continuously invested in such programmes to support literacy and child education. Over the years, Newmont has driven various literacy and educational initiatives in its host communities, including the Newmont Gold-4-Gold Childhood Reading Literacy Programme.

Launched in partnership with United Way Ghana and the Ghana Library Authority in 2019, this program aims to enhance literacy among lower primary children in targeted communities.

 

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