Home Blog Page 63

Israeli Embassy celebrates Israel’s 78th Indece Day in Accra

0
Israel’s Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Roey Gilad, addressing the event in Accra.

Israel’s Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Roey Gilad, has warned that the growing extremist threat in the Sahel mirrors the security challenges confronting the Middle East, stressing that no country can defeat terrorism alone.

Speaking at Israel’s 78th Independence Anniversary celebration in Accra, Ambassador Gilad said armed groups operating in Mali and the wider Sahel posed dangers similar to Hamas and Hezbollah.

Israel’s Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Roey Gilad, shares a toast with the Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Hon. Kenneth Adjei, who represented President

“The situation in the Sahel is not much different than the situation in the Middle East,” he said, adding “JNIM and Al-Qaida are not different than Hamas and Hezbollah, as was evident only a few days ago in Mali. No state can meet such a challenge alone and a coalition of the willing is essential.”

His remarks come amid growing concern over insecurity in West Africa’s Sahel region, where countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger continue to battle insurgent groups linked to extremist ideologies. Ghanaian security experts have also warned about possible spill over threats to coastal states, including Ghana.

By drawing comparisons between the two regions, the envoy placed the Sahel crisis within a wider global security context, arguing that terrorism has become an international challenge requiring coordinated responses.

Participants hold Israeli flags and sit attentively during proceedings at the 78th Independence Anniversary of Israel in Accra, expressing solidarity and support

Ambassador Gilad, who also serves as Israel’s ambassador to Liberia and Sierra Leone, said Israel continues to face serious regional threats, citing Iran and allied armed groups in Lebanon, Gaza and Yemen. According to him, these tensions have shaped Israel’s security priorities in recent years.

The ambassador also referred to the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks and the hostage crisis that followed. He disclosed that on January 26, 2026 Israel recovered the body of Sergeant Major Ran Gvili, whom he described as the last among 251 Israelis abducted during the attacks.

According to him, 166 of those abducted returned alive, while 85 were returned dead. He said although that chapter had closed, Israel still face difficult national wounds and political debates over its future.

He noted that Israel would hold general elections in October, this year, describing democracy as the means through which nations determine their future.

Despite the security concerns, Ambassador Gilad ended on a hopeful note, saying peace remains central to Israel’s national values.

He said Israel was currently engaged in talks with Lebanon and remained interested in peaceful relations with its neighbours, including the Palestinians.

He, however, argued that the disarmament of Hamas was necessary for normal life to return to Gaza.

The Israeli envoy also praised Ghana’s contribution to international peacekeeping, particularly the role of Ghanaian soldiers serving under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

He said Israel deeply appreciated Ghana’s long-standing service in helping to maintain peace and security in southern Lebanon.

Beyond security matters, Ambassador Gilad highlighted the historic ties between Ghana and Israel. He recalled that Israel opened its embassy in Accra in 1956, one year before Ghana attained independence, making it the first Israeli embassy in Sub-Saharan Africa.

He said relations between the two countries had grown from early cooperation in agriculture to new sectors such as cybersecurity, fintech, defence, energy and infrastructure.

The ambassador also referenced bilateral political consultations held in Jerusalem in January, this year, attended by Ghanaian officials including Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister James Quayson and Deputy Agriculture Minister John Dumelo.

Representing President John Dramani Mahama at the event, the Minister for Works and Housing, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei congratulated Israel on its 78th anniversary and praised the country’s resilience, innovation and democratic tradition.

He described Ghana and Israel as long-standing partners whose relations were built on mutual respect, shared values and practical cooperation.

According to him, Ghana sees strong potential for Israeli investment and expertise in flagship programmes such as the 24-hour economy policy, the Big Push infrastructure agenda and digital transformation efforts.

He also identified agriculture, health, education and innovation as key areas for future collaboration between the two countries.

The anniversary reception was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, the Israeli community in Ghana, and invited Ghanaian guests.

The occasion was marked by music and entertainment performances by Tania Vinokur, an international violinist, singer and performer known for blending diverse cultural influences.

 

 

For more news, join The Chronicle Newspaper channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBSs55E50UqNPvSOm2z

Mahama advances 24-hour economy vision with ground-breaking market at Asesewa

0
President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has cut sod for the construction of a state-of-the-art 24-hour economy model market at Asesewa, a landmark project expected to restore the town’s historic prominence as one of Ghana’s vibrant commercial centres while opening a new chapter of economic opportunity for traders, farmers, and small-scale enterprises.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on Friday, marked the fulfillment of a major campaign promise under the President’s broader economic transformation agenda, which seeks to stimulate district-level commerce, expand local enterprise, and create sustainable jobs through strategic infrastructure investment.

The Asesewa market project forms part of a nationwide initiative to construct 261 ultramodern district-level markets across the country, an ambitious programme designed to decentralize economic growth, strengthen local supply chains, and position communities as engines of national development under Ghana’s 24-hour economy policy.

Addressing a large gathering of traditional leaders, traders, residents, and government officials at the ceremony, President Mahama reflected on Asesewa’s proud commercial heritage, describing the town as a historic trading center whose growth has been constrained by years of inadequate market infrastructure.

Historically, Asesewa has been a market town for many years, but over time, the infrastructure has not kept pace, affecting its growth,” the President stated.

He explained that the construction of the ultramodern market is intended not only to improve trading conditions, but also to reposition Asesewa as a thriving economic hub capable of attracting investment, increasing commerce, and stimulating surrounding local economies.

President Mahama stressed that the 24-hour market concept is central to his government’s broader economic vision, one that aims to unlock productivity beyond traditional business hours, encourage continuous economic activity, and create employment opportunities for thousands of Ghanaians, particularly women and youth engaged in trade and agribusiness.

“This initiative is about more than building markets. It is about building opportunity, creating jobs, and transforming local economies into centres of productivity and prosperity,” he emphasized.

The planned Asesewa market complex is designed as a modern integrated commercial enclave equipped with world-class facilities to support large-scale trading, storage, transportation, security, and social welfare services.

According to project details, the facility will include 100 lockable stores and 150 open trading stalls, providing secure and accessible spaces for traders dealing in food items, textiles, household goods, and agricultural produce.

It will also feature 36 modern washrooms fitted with improved sanitary amenities, addressing long-standing hygiene concerns often associated with traditional market spaces.

In a move to strengthen security and emergency preparedness, the market complex will include an on-site police post and fire station, ensuring rapid response to security threats, fire outbreaks, and other emergencies.

Recognizing the crucial role women play in local commerce, government has also incorporated social support infrastructure into the project. A daycare center will provide childcare support for market women, while an on-site pharmacy and health clinic staffed by professionals will improve access to healthcare services for traders and patrons.

A dedicated Women’s Bank is also expected to operate within the market complex, aimed at improving access to credit, financial literacy, and business support services for women entrepreneurs, many of whom remain excluded from formal financing systems despite their central role in Ghana’s informal economy.

The facility will further boast 10 warehouses for bulk storage, a meat processing and sales shop, two cold stores for perishable goods, and a restaurant with food courts to enhance convenience for traders and visitors.

In addition, plans include a shopping mall with six guest rooms, creating opportunities for business lodging and commercial expansion.

Provision has also been made for a livestock trading area, a market manager’s office, and a modern lorry terminal to improve transportation logistics, reduce congestion, and facilitate the smooth movement of goods and passengers.

For residents of Asesewa and surrounding communities, the project represents more than a market redevelopment initiative—it is widely seen as a catalyst for economic revival, urban renewal, and inclusive growth.

With construction now set to begin, many are hopeful that Asesewa will soon reclaim its historic identity as a bustling centre of trade, this time powered by modern infrastructure, expanded opportunity, and a bold vision for a 24-hour economy.

 

 

For more news, join The Chronicle Newspaper channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBSs55E50UqNPvSOm2z

Koforidua Mayor tours BECE centres

0
Mr. Ransford Owusu Boakye, Mayor of Koforidua

Candidates sitting for this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) across the Eastern Region have received a significant morale boost, following a motivational tour of selected examination centers in Koforidua by Mr Ransford Owusu Boakye, the mayor, of Koforidua.

The high-profile visit, aimed at encouraging candidates and monitoring the smooth conduct of the nationwide examination took the ministerial delegation to four major centers in Koforidua namely Koforidua Secondary Technical School, New Juaben Senior High School, Pentecost Senior High School and Oti Boateng Senior High School, where warm interactions with candidates, teachers, invigilators and examination officials underscored the government’s continued commitment to quality education and credible examinations.

At each center, the mayor addressed candidates, many of whom were visibly anxious, but optimistic as they prepared to write papers that will shape the next stage of their academic journey.

In a message filled with hope and reassurance, he urged the students to remain calm, focused and confident, reminding them that the BECE represents far more than an academic assessment; it is a gateway to future opportunities.

“You have prepared for this moment for years. This is your opportunity to demonstrate what you have learned. Stay focused, avoid fear, and give your very best. Success comes to those who prepare well and believe in themselves,” he told the candidates.

His presence was met with excitement and appreciation from students, many of whom said the visit gave them renewed confidence and inspiration at crucial moment.

Several candidates described the encouragement as timely, saying it helped reduce anxiety and strengthened their resolve to perform well.

One candidate remarked: “Seeing leaders come here personally to encourage us makes us feel important. It gives us confidence that we can succeed.”

Commitment to Free, Fair and Credible Examinations

Beyond motivating students, Mr Boakye held discussions with supervisors, invigilators, and teachers on the need to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, fairness and vigilance throughout the examination period.

He commended examination officials for their dedication and stressed that the integrity of Ghana’s educational system depends largely on transparency, discipline and strict compliance with examination regulations.

“Teachers and invigilators remain the backbone of our educational system. Their commitment to fairness, discipline, and proper supervision preserves the credibility of our examinations and safeguards the future of our children,” he noted.

He also emphasized the importance of maintaining an examination environment which is free from malpractice, intimidation or irregularities, urging all stakeholders to work together to protect the sanctity of the BECE.

Stakeholders Praise Visit

Education stakeholders welcomed the mayor’s presence, describing it as a practical demonstration of leadership’s interest in the welfare and academic progress of young people.

Teachers at the centres said such visits not only motivate candidates, but also reassure educators that their efforts are recognised and valued.

“When students see leaders personally come to encourage them, it motivates them to take their studies seriously. It tells them their future matters and that society believes in them.”

Okere to hold investment forum to drive economic growth

0
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Okere in the Akuapem Ridge of the Eastern Region, Hon. Daniel Nana Addo-Kenneth (in black) with the traditional leaders in a group photograph after the meeting

The Member of Parliament (MP) for Okere in the Eastern Region, Daniel Nana Addo-Kenneth, has initiated stakeholder consultations with traditional authorities on a strategic roadmap toward hosting the maiden Okere Stakeholders Investment Forum, a flagship initiative aimed at attracting investors, stimulating enterprise and creating sustainable jobs for the youth.

The initiative is largely described by constituents as a significant step towards unlocking the economic potentials of the Okere.

The high-level engagement, held on Saturday, at the Adukrom Palace, brought together chiefs and queen mothers from the seven major traditional areas within the constituency, in what many observers described as a historic gathering, focused squarely on economic transformation.

Traditional leaders representing Abiriw, Dawu, Awukugua, Adukrom, Apirede, Aseseeso and Abonse attended the meeting, signaling a united front by the traditional leadership towards a common development vision for Okere.

At the heart of the deliberations was a singular, urgent and transformative question: “How do we bring Investors to Okere to create jobs?”

That question framed a day of intense dialogue, strategic planning, and collective commitment toward building a future in which the youth of Okere can find meaningful employment and entrepreneurial opportunities within their own communities rather than seeking uncertain prospects elsewhere.

The gathering reflected a growing recognition that development can no longer be left to the government alone, but must emerge from strong partnerships between traditional leadership, elected representatives, private investors, and local communities.

For Daniel Nana Addo-Kenneth, the investment forum is envisioned not merely as an event but as a practical economic vehicle to connect Okere’s untapped resources, peaceful environment, and strategic location with domestic and international investment capital.

Roadmap for the Maiden Investment Forum

One major outcome of the meeting was the agreement to convene a special follow-up meeting dedicated solely to finalizing the roadmap for the Maiden Okere Stakeholders Investment Forum, which is expected to become a defining platform for showcasing the constituency’s economic potential.

Key pillars discussed as part of the proposed investment framework include Litigation-Free Lands for Development where Traditional authorities are expected to work closely with local leadership to identify and dedicate peaceful, litigation-free acres of land suitable for industrial projects, commercial farming, agro-processing facilities, and manufacturing enterprises.

This is expected to remove one of the biggest barriers to investment—land acquisition uncertainty, and send a strong signal that Okere is investment-ready.

The constituency also plans to identify and package bankable projects in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, agro-processing, real estate, renewable energy, and rural industrialization for presentation to potential investors.

Rather than waiting passively for investment interest, Okere intends to proactively build commercially viable proposals capable of attracting serious financing.

Perhaps the strongest pillar of the initiative is its jobs-first approach.

Under the emerging framework, every investment partnership is expected to prioritise skills training for local youth, direct job creation, support for entrepreneurship, value-chain opportunities for farmers, artisans and traders and long-term economic empowerment rather than short-term gains.

Okere Has What Investors Are Looking For

Daniel Nana Addo-Kenneth emphasised that Okere possesses key advantages many investors actively seek like peace, social stability, available land, improving infrastructure and a ready youthful workforce.

According to him, while traditional leaders are providing leadership on land and community support, his role as a Member of Parliament is to leverage policy advocacy, strategic facilitation and investor engagement to channel capital into the constituency.

“Okere has the peace and physical infrastructure investors beg for. My job is to bring the investors to meet that peace,” he indicated.

This statement captures what is increasingly becoming known as the Okere Jobs Compact, a development formula built on collaboration between traditional authority and political leadership for economic transformation.

A notable theme that emerged from the meeting was inclusiveness. Leaders were emphatic that the proposed forum must not become an elite gathering reserved for politicians, executives and corporate figures, but rather a people-centered platform designed to solve real economic challenges confronting ordinary residents.

The vision is for investment to benefit the farmer who needs guaranteed markets and fair prices for produce, the SHS graduate who needs practical employment opportunities and the artisan who seeks regular contracts and skills upgrading.

The rest are the trader who needs capital expansion and stronger supply chains and the entrepreneur who requires access to partnerships, financing and mentorship.

 

 

For more news, join The Chronicle Newspaper channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBSs55E50UqNPvSOm2z

Arsenal, Atletico Madrid lock horns at the Emirates Stadium

0
Bukayo Saka, Arsenal

Budapest dreams will be realised for either Arsenal or Atletico Madrid on Tuesday evening, when the two Champions League hopefuls lock horns in the second leg of their semi-final at the Emirates Stadium.

Last week’s first leg – a tale of three penalties – ended in a 1-1 stalemate in the Spanish capital, putting Mikel Arteta‘s men at a marginal advantage ahead of their biggest European game in two decades.

Winning, drawing or even losing by a narrow scoreline would have been acceptable for Arsenal at the Metropolitano Stadium last week, so a stalemate was a fine result at face value, although there was a palpable sense of Gunners frustration at full time.

Julian Alvarez, Atletico Madrid

Yet to suffer defeat in the 2025-26 Champions League, Arsenal will set a new club record for their longest unbeaten streak in the competition (14 matches) if they can end their 20-year exile from the final, and recent European and domestic exploits suggest that Arteta’s men can do just that.

Another trophyless season awaits if Simeone’s men cannot correct their Emirates errors.

Atletico have already suffered Copa del Rey final heartbreak at the hands of Real Sociedad and have little on the line domestically, having already secured a top-four finish in La Liga.

Faced with an Atletico side renowned for a leaky defence away from home, having conceded at least twice in seven of their last 10 games on the road, Arteta’s revitalised attack can fire the Gunners into the Champions League final.

Credit: .sportsmole.co.uk

GPL Match Day 31 shakes up title race, as heavyweights stumble

0
Hearts of Oak players celebrating a goal

Match day 31 of the Ghana Premier League may ultimately be remembered as the point where the title race began to slip out of reach for the chasing pack, as a combination of dropped points, inconsistent performances and shifting momentum created a clear separation at the top.

Match day 31 exposed underlying weaknesses in contention particularly in consistency and defensive stability, while reinforcing how crucial efficiency and game management have become in the closing stages of the season, where margins are increasingly defined not just by results, but by control and composure.  
Medeama 2-0 Bibiani Gold Stars

All eyes were on the top-of-the-table clash and Medeama SC rose to the occasion with a performance full of authority and composure to defeat Bibiani Gold Stars. From the opening whistle, Medeama showed intent, pressing high and controlling possession in midfield. Their ability to dictate the tempo prevented Gold Stars from settling into any rhythm. The home side’s attacking movement caused constant problems, with their forwards finding pockets of space between the lines.

Razak Sanou, Bibiani Gold Stars

The breakthrough came after sustained pressure, as Medeama capitalized on a defensive lapse to take the lead. Once ahead, they managed the game intelligently, maintaining control while limiting Gold Stars to very few clear-cut chances. A second goal in the latter stages effectively sealed the contest, sending the home crowd into celebration.

For Gold Stars, the defeat is a major setback. Their defensive fragility was once again exposed, and their inability to respond in big matches raises serious concerns. With this result, Medeama extended their lead at the top to eight points, placing them firmly in command of the title race with only a few games remaining.

Dreams FC 2-0 Asante Kotoko

Dreams FC continued their impressive late-season resurgence with a confident and well-deserved victory over Asante Kotoko, a result that further deepens Kotoko’s struggles. Dreams began the game with energy and purpose, pressing aggressively and forcing Kotoko into errors.

Their attacking play was fluid, with quick passing combinations stretching the Kotoko defense. The opening goal came as a reward for their dominance, following a well-worked move that exposed gaps in Kotoko’s backline.

Kotoko attempted to respond but lacked cohesion in their play. Their midfield struggled to link up effectively with the attack, and their forward line appeared isolated for long periods. Defensive lapses continued to plague them, and Dreams capitalized again to double their advantage.

The second half saw Kotoko enjoy slightly more possession, but they failed to convert it into meaningful chances. Dreams, meanwhile, remained organized and disciplined, comfortably seeing out the game.

Karela United 2-1 Young Apostles

In a tightly contested encounter, Karela United secured a vital 2-1 victory over Young Apostles, boosting their position in the standings while deepening their opponents’ relegation worries. Karela started strongly, using their home advantage to apply early pressure. Their attacking intent paid off with the opening goal, which came from a well-executed move that caught the Young Apostles defense off guard. The hosts looked confident and in control for much of the first half.

However, Young Apostles showed resilience and responded with determination, finding an equalizer that brought them back into the contest. The goal shifted momentum briefly, as they pushed forward in search of a second.

Samartex 3-1 Holy Stars

Samartex delivered one of the standout performances of the round, defeating Holy Stars 3-1 in a match that highlighted their growing confidence and attacking prowess.

Samartex asserted control early, dominating possession and dictating play with crisp passing and intelligent movement. Their attacking players combined effectively, creating multiple opportunities and eventually breaking the deadlock with a well-taken goal.

The home side continued to press and doubled their lead with another clinical finish, leaving Holy Stars struggling to cope with the intensity. Although Holy Stars managed to pull one back and briefly threaten a comeback, Samartex quickly restored their two-goal cushion with a third strike.

Nations FC 0-1 Hearts of Oak

Hearts of Oak secured a narrow but crucial away victory against Nations FC, demonstrating their trademark defensive discipline.

The match was closely contested, with both sides showing caution in the early stages. Nations FC looked organized and attempted to control possession, while Hearts focused on maintaining a solid defensive structure.

The decisive moment came when Hearts capitalized on a rare opportunity, scoring the only goal of the match. From that point, they shifted into a more defensive approach, relying on their well-drilled backline to protect their lead.

Aduana FC 0-0 Heart of Lions

Aduana’s clash with Heart of Lions ended in a goalless stalemate, a result that reflects a game low on attacking quality but high on tactical discipline.

Table

Aduana FC enjoyed more possession and looked the more proactive side, attempting to break down a compact Heart of Lions defense. However, their attacking play lacked the creativity and precision needed to unlock the opposition.

By Jesse Otoo

It will be a beautiful story if Wendy Shay wins TGMA Artiste of the Year –Reggie Rockstone

0
Wendy Shay

Hiplife pioneer Reggie Rockstone has thrown his support behind Wendy Shay for Artiste of the Year at the 2026 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), scheduled for 9th May 2026.

Speaking in an interview with Kwame Dadzie on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z, he said although all the nominees are deserving, a win for Wendy Shay would be a refreshing and meaningful moment for the industry.

“I would be a beautiful story if Wendy picked it up. I am just saying even from the outlook. Of course I would love for Medikal too because he put in a lot of work. But it will be beautiful [if Wendy wins]. It will make me smile really big,” he said.

Wendy Shay is nominated alongside Medikal, Black Sherif, Diana Hamilton, Stonebwoy, and Sarkodie in the Artiste of the Year category.

If she wins, it will be her first time claiming the top award, same as Medikal. Black Sherif and Diana Hamilton each have one Artiste of the Year title to their name, while Stonebwoy and Sarkodie have won it twice apiece.

Last year, King Promise won the award following a competitive run that sparked intense conversations around PR campaigns and media debates among the nominees.

The Artiste of the Year of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards, “is the Artiste(s) adjudged by the Academy, Board and the General Public as the artiste with the highest audience appeal and popularity in the year under review. The artiste must have released a hit Single/EP/Album, and must be one of the artistes with the highest nominations in the year under review.”

This year’s ceremony will take place on 9th May 2026 at The Palms Convention Centre in Accra.

Credit: myjoyonline.com

Why I decided to withdraw from University -Black Sherif reveals

0
Black Sherif

Celebrated Artiste, Black Sherif, has shared his thoughts on his university education and revealed his intentions to return to school in the near future.

Speaking on Joy FM’s ‘Personality Profile’show, Black Sherif, born Mohammed Ismail Sherif Kwaku Frimpong, opened up about his time at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) and why he decided to withdraw from his academic pursuit.

Despite stepping away from his studies to focus on his rapidly rising music career, Black Sherif noted that education is not something he has dismissed entirely – and he plans to go back to school.

Black Sherif’s journey through academia was short-lived. Enrolled at UPSA in 2022, the rapper was working towards a four-year bachelor’s degree when he made the difficult decision to withdraw.

Reflecting on this period, Black Sherif admitted that leaving university was not an event marked by a formal or intense conversation.

Instead, he likened his departure to a ninja’s disappearing act – one that wasn’t explicitly discussed with his family.

“With the university thing, I feel like I smoked it up, you know when ninjas in movies they want to disappear, they drop a smoke bomb,” Black Sherif explained.

My battle with asthmatic made me stop smoking –Reggie Rockstone 

0
Reggie Rockstone

Hiplife originator Reggie Rockstone has revealed that he has stopped smoking due to his battle with asthma.

Speaking in a recent interview on Joy FM, the 62-year-old artiste said quitting smoking is one of several lifestyle changes he has made as he has grown older.

He explained that although he used to smoke and drink alcohol in his younger years, he later resolved to change many of those habits.

When asked if he had smoked before, he said, “I have done everything. I never did hard drugs which I thank God because I have a very addictive personality, so I am blessed in that sense so yeah, with the ganja, I tried all of that before.”

“At this point, being that I am asthmatic, so I got no business smoking again. My father was heavy asthmatic, my son has asthma, so I had no business smoking anyway,” he further stated.

Rockstone also spoke about broader changes to his diet and lifestyle.

“Lately, I have specific food I eat. As I grew older I have become wiser. I had to make some drastic lifestyle changes. Because I came up and show business and we moved around eating all sort of things. But I was blessed to have cut out red meat early. I think I ate pork in my teens. Nobody asked me to stop eating it. I stopped on my own.”

“I have always drunk a lot of water because my father said so, I have always ate fruits,” he added.

The ‘Makaa Maka’ hit maker noted that he enjoys eating watermelon and pawpaw and takes his workout routine seriously.

Donald Trump says wife Melania ‘hates’ when he dances to 1978 hit YMCA

0
Donald Trump dancing with Melania

Donald Trump says his wife doesn’t always appreciate his dance moves.

The president went on a tangent about his affinity for grooving to the Village People’s 1978 hit “Y.M.C.A.” during an appearance in Sumterville, Fla., on Friday.

“She hates when I dance to what’s sometimes referred to as the gay national anthem, you know,” he said of Melania Trump. “She hates it.”

Trump went on to explain why the first lady objects to his fist-pumping dance moves — which, it should be noted, do not resemble the typical alphabetical gestures that “Y.M.C.A.” ordinarily inspires.

“We love that song,” he said. “But she goes, ‘Darling, please.’ You know, she’s a very elegant woman. She goes, ‘Darling, please, don’t dance. It’s not presidential.'”

Trump’s response? “I said, ‘It may not be presidential, but I’m leading by 20 points in the polls.'”

Trump also bragged about how his bid for president impacted the track’s chart performance decades after it was released. “You know, that song was No. 5 32 years ago, and it went to No. 1 32 years later,” he claimed. “There’s never been anything like it. It never hit No. 1. It was No. 5 32 years ago, and it went to No. 1 for months during the last months of the campaign.”

Trump’s chart numbers and dates do not totally check out. While it’s true that “Y.M.C.A.” did experience renewed popularity as he used the song throughout his 2024 presidential campaign (and also because of widespread usage of it on TikTok), the specific data he cites is incorrect.

Trump has a somewhat tumultuous history with “Y.M.C.A.” He played the song throughout his 2020 presidential campaign, which the Village People initially approved of, writing in a February 2020 Facebook post, “He has remained respectful in his use of our songs and has not crossed the line.”

Credit: yahoonews

The Ghanaian Chronicle