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Alabaster Box sues Medikal over ‘Akwaaba’ interpolation

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Medikal

About a week after threatening legal action against rapper Medikal, Ghanaian a cappella group, Alabaster Box, has sued the ‘Omo Ada’ hit maker for using a portion of their ‘Akwaaba’ song without their approval.

Earlier, the music group had indicated that Medikal used part of their ‘Akwaaba’ song for his latest song titled ‘Welcome to Africa.’

A letter they wrote to Medikal states that the first 10 seconds of ‘Welcome to Africa’ is a reproduction of their song.

They say the choice of title and verses of Medikal’s song point to the fact that his work is derived from Alabaster Box’s ‘Akwaaba.’

The group also alleges that Medikal’s aggressive promotion and distribution of his track on major streaming platforms also deepen the violation.

The lawyers therefore demanded the immediate removal of ‘Welcome to Africa’ from all digital and traditional platforms.

They also demanded the cessation of any marketing, performance, or business related to the track and the termination of any contracts associated with its production and distribution.

Apart from these, Alabaster Box also wanted Medikal to render accounts of revenue generated from the song, and disclose all individuals or companies involved in its promotion and distribution.

They said failure to comply with the above-listed demands would result in a legal action against the rapper.

Credit: myjoyonline.com

We’re tired of the slow pace, show us action –KSM to Mahama

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NANA KWESI COOMSON
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KSM

Renowned Ghanaian comedian and social commentator, Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM), has expressed dissatisfaction with President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, citing a perceived lack of urgency and direction in governance.

In a recent video shared on his YouTube channel, KSM voiced frustration over what he described as the slow pace of government business. He noted that political squabbles—particularly a dispute with the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) surrounding a recent cocaine-related scandalhad taken centre stage, sidelining more critical national issues.

“There appears to be a void in leadership activity, which allows the opposition to push distracting agendas,” he said.

According to KSM, such distractions would be less effective if the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) had a clearly defined national agenda with detailed policies and a roadmap for development.

He was particularly critical of the government’s failure to outline a concrete vision, suggesting this shortcoming gives opponents room to derail the national conversation.

What Rev Ntim Fordjour is doing is part of an agenda, and it is nauseating,” he asserted. “If the NDC had a well-crafted national plancomplete with policy direction and frameworks for implementationit would eliminate that vacuum and prevent people from pushing irrelevant agendas.

KSM also questioned the visible absence of enthusiasm among government appointees, stating that Ghanaians are struggling to sense any real energy or momentum from the current administration.

“They campaigned on the promise of bringing in fresh energy to lead the country forward. But right now, people aren’t feeling it,” he said.

While he acknowledged President Mahama’s personal drive, he noted that it seemed the President lacked active support from his team.

“President Mahama does have some drive. But it feels like the ministers and appointees around him aren’t matching that energy,” he added.

‘Thanks for using my name to fill halls but…’ -Napo to comedian OB Amponsah

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh and Comedian OB Amponsah

Running mate to the 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as “Napo,” has broken his silence over viral jokes made about him by comedian OB Amponsah.

During his performance at the Bukom Boxing Arena, the comedian, humorously addressed Napo, highlighting his remarks during the 2024 election campaign.

OB’s jokes centered on Napo’s statements, which sparked public debate, and these segments resonated strongly with the audience, eliciting laughter at the December 21, 2024 event.

In a lighthearted yet pointed comment, Napo acknowledged the use of his name in OB’s stand-up performance.

“If somebody who is a comedian is using my name and he is filling halls, I am very happy. I thank him because he is putting my name out there for free,” he said.

He joked that while he appreciates the publicity, he would like to share in the financial rewards.

“But I will let my lawyers write to him so that we share the proceeds, the revenue, because I am unemployed.”

One of the jokes revolved around the campaign utterance comparing President Akufo-Addo’s achievements to those of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

During his unveiling as the running mate in Kumasi on July 9, 2024, Napo said that no president, including the revered Dr. Nkrumah, has developed Ghana like President Akufo-Addo.

“Since independence from 1957 till today, we’ve not had any president that has helped Ghana like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. I say from 1957 till today, you can bring your Kwame Nkrumah… no president who has protected Ghana and moved the country forward like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo,” he explained.

Credit: myjoyonline.com

Managing music career and education is very difficult -Guru

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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0
Guru

Rapper Maradona Yeboah Adjei, popularly known as Guru, has offered a candid look into the demanding task of balancing higher education with a thriving music career.

In an interview with Andy Dosty on Daybreak Hitz on April 14, 2025, the ‘Lapaz Toyota’ composer revealed that he was still pursuing his tertiary studies when he released several of his hit records.

“Combining music and academics is incredibly challenging, but I’ve managed to put out a few songs that have done remarkably well. Eye Nwanwa is currently topping the charts, and Bebree also made a notable impact,” he shared.

Guru shed light on the creative process behind his music, explaining that his team often draws inspiration directly from their surroundings.

“We usually tap into street culture—the rhythms, the sounds around us—and channel that into our music. That’s our formula. The songs have met expectations, although some of the original ideas came from outside contributors,” he explained.

Guru also addressed ongoing speculation about his track Enkoyie, featuring Benji. The song’s themes, including a reference to “kakistocracy,” led many listeners to believe it was politically driven. However, the rapper pushed back against those assumptions.

“Most of the time, we construct songs around specific ideas. In this case, I was building a concept within a broader theme. The track was actually about relationships, not politics,” he clarified.

Although Guru hasn’t released a full album in nearly six or seven years, he emphasized that he remains active in the music scene, choosing to drop new music whenever creativity strikes.

German doctor charged with murder of 15 patients

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admin
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German palliative care doctor charged

A German palliative care doctor has been charged with murdering 15 of his patients using a cocktail of lethal drugs.

Prosecutors in Berlin have accused the 40-year-old of setting fire to the homes of some of his suspected victims to cover his tracks.

He allegedly killed 12 women and three men between September 2021 and July 2024, though prosecutors have said they believe that total could rise.

The doctor, who has not been named due to strict privacy laws in Germany, has not admitted to the charges, prosecutors said.

He is accused of administering an anaesthetic and a muscle relaxant to his patients without their knowledge or consent.

The relaxant “paralysed the respiratory muscles, leading to respiratory arrest and death within minutes”, the prosecutor’s office said in a statement.

He worked in several German states, and the ages of those whose deaths are being treated as suspicious range from 25 to 94.

It is also alleged that the suspect set fire to the apartments of his alleged victims to cover up the killings on five different occasions.

The suspect is accused of killing two patients in a single day in July 2024 – a 75-year-old man at his home in central Berlin, and a 76-year-old woman in a neighbouring district “a few hours later”.

Prosecutors said the doctor tried to set fire to the woman’s house but failed, adding: “When he noticed this, he reportedly informed a relative of the woman, claiming that he was standing in front of her apartment and that no one had responded to his ringing.”

The doctor was initially suspected of having killed four people in his care when he was arrested in August 2024 but investigations have uncovered other suspicious deaths, with more exhumations on potential victims planned.

A “lifelong professional ban” and “preventative detention” is being sought for the 40-year-old suspect. He remains in custody.

Credit: bbc.com

UK Supreme Court backs ‘biological’ definition of woman

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Campaigners gathered outside the Supreme Court for the verdict

Judges at the UK Supreme Court have unanimously ruled that a woman is defined by biological sex under equalities law.

It marks the culmination of a long-running legal battle which could have major implications for how sex-based rights apply across Scotland, England and Wales.

The court sided with campaign group For Women Scotland, which brought a case against the Scottish government arguing that sex-based protections should only apply to people that are born female.

Judge Lord Hodge said the ruling should not be seen as a triumph of one side over the other, and stressed that the law still gives protection against discrimination to transgender people.

The Scottish government argued in court that transgender people with a gender recognition certificate (GRC) are entitled to the same sex-based protections as biological women.

The Supreme Court was asked to decide on the proper interpretation of the 2010 Equality Act, which applies across Britain.

Lord Hodge said the central question was how the words “woman” and “sex” are defined in the legislation.

He told the court: “The unanimous decision of this court is that the terms woman and sex in the Equality Act 2010 refer to a biological woman and biological sex.

“But we counsel against reading this judgement as a triumph of one or more groups in our society at the expense of another, it is not.”

He added that the legislation gives transgender people “protection, not only against discrimination through the protected characteristic of gender reassignment, but also against direct discrimination, indirect discrimination and harassment in substance in their acquired gender”.

Credit: bbc.com

Israeli troops will remain in Gaza ‘security zones’ after war, minister says

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admin
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Residents said there were fresh Israeli strikes in the south-west of Jabalia overnight

Israel’s defence minister has said troops will remain in the so-called security zones they have established by seizing large areas of Gaza even after an end to the war.

Israel Katz said the zones would provide a “buffer” to protect Israeli communities “in any temporary or permanent situation”, and that “tens of per cent” of the Palestinian territory had been added since the Israeli offensive resumed three weeks ago.

He said Israel would continue its six-week blockade of humanitarian aid to pressure Hamas to release hostages, despite the UN warning of “devastating” consequences.

Meanwhile, hospital officials said at least 24 Palestinians were killed in Israeli strikes across Gaza on Wednesday.

The majority of those reported killed were in Gaza City, in the north.

They included 10 members of the Hassouna family, mostly children and women. One of them was Fatema Hassouna – a young writer and photographer.

The BBC has asked the Israeli military for comment on the strike.

The Hamas-run Civil Defence agency also said two people were killed in an Israeli strike on tents for displaced families in the Yarmouk Stadium, to the north-west, on Tuesday night.

Another two people were killed after a strike at a camp near southern city of Khan Younis, it added. Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry has said more than 1,650 people have been killed since the war resumed on 18 March.

Credit: bbc.com

US judge says he could hold Trump administration in contempt of court

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admin
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A US judge

A US judge has said he could hold the Trump administration in contempt of court for “wilful disregard” of an order to halt the departure of deportation flights carrying more than 200 people to El Salvador last month.

The administration had invoked a 227-year-old law meant to protect the US during wartime to carry out the mass deportation.

“The Court does not reach such conclusion lightly or hastily; indeed, it has given Defendants ample opportunity to rectify or explain their actions. None of their responses has been satisfactory,” federal judge James Boasberg wrote.

In a statement, the White House said it would appeal.

White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said: “We plan to seek immediate appellate relief.

“The President is 100% committed to ensuring that terrorists and criminal illegal migrants are no longer a threat to Americans and their communities across the country.”

Judge Boasberg’s decision to begin contempt proceedings escalates a clash between the White House and the judiciary over the president’s powers.

The administration could avoid a contempt finding, or “purge” itself of contempt, if they provide an explanation of their actions and come into compliance with the original order issued last month, Boasberg said on Wednesday.

That filing is due by 23 April, he said.

His ruling comes despite the Supreme Court’s later finding that Donald Trump could in fact use the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to conduct the deportations to El Salvador.

The Supreme Court’s ruling against Boasberg’s temporary restraining order “does not excuse the Government’s violation”, he said.

Credit: bbc.com

Tips for Healthy Easter Eating

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admin
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Easter is a special time of year that many of us look forward to. It’s a time to take a break from studies, relax, and enjoy the company of friends and family.

While you might be looking forward to the chocolate eggs and other treats, if you’re wondering how to enjoy your Easter holiday period without falling behind on any of your long-term health goals, here are some tips to help you over the Easter break.

Plan your Easter meals

One of the most effective ways to eat healthy during the Easter break is to plan your meals. Planning your meals helps you stay on track and ensures that you get all the nutrients your body needs. Start by making a list of healthy foods that you enjoy (such as fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and nuts) and plan your meals around these foods. Try to include a variety of colours on your plate, as this will ensure that you’re getting a range of vitamins and minerals.

Plan your Easter treats as well. While it’s okay to indulge a little, it’s important not to go overboard.

Eat chocolate mindfully

Eating chocolate mindfully can be a delicious and enjoyable experience that doesn’t have to leave you feeling guilty. Instead of denying yourself the pleasure of indulging in your favourite treats over Easter, try savouring them slowly and deliberately, paying attention to the flavours, textures, and sensations. Mindful eating can help you to fully enjoy the experience of eating chocolate, while also tuning in to your body’s hunger and fullness cues, so you can avoid overeating. Remember that treating yourself in moderation can be a positive and healthy way to enjoy the holiday season, so go ahead and savour that chocolate bunny guilt-free!

Cook at home

Cooking at home is a great way to eat healthy and save money. When you cook at home, you can control the ingredients that go into your meals, and you can avoid the added sugars and unhealthy fats that are often found in restaurant meals. Plus, cooking can be a fun and creative activity, and you can involve your family and friends.

During the Easter break, try to experiment with new healthy recipes. You can make a healthy Easter brunch with egg-white omelettes, whole-grain pancakes, and fresh fruit. Or, make a healthy Easter dinner with roasted vegetables, grilled fish, and a quinoa salad. Try out this recipe for a Hot Cross Bun-ana Bread Loaf, courtesy of Accredited Practicing Dietitian and UQ Research Assistant Zara Nance.

Get active

Getting active is another important aspect of staying healthy. Exercise has been shown to have a positive impact on both physical and mental health. During the Easter break, try to incorporate some physical activity into your routine. You can go for a walk, run, or bike ride, or participate in a workout class. Find something that you enjoy and make it a part of your daily routine.

Additionally, Easter is a great time to get active with family and friends. You can organize an Easter egg hunt, play a game of football or basketball, or go for a hike in nature. Not only will you be getting some exercise, but you’ll also be spending quality time with your loved ones.

Maintaining social support

If you are enjoying treats but want to keep consumption at a reasonable and healthy level, it’s important to inform family and friends to avoid overfeeding you with festive treats. When heading out for events and gatherings, let your close ones know that you are keeping the sweet treats under control. They might even offer you healthier options when that happens. Attitudes and positive behaviours are often infectious, you could even positively influence their food choices too!

Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is important for both physical and mental health. Drinking plenty of water can help you maintain healthy skin, aid in digestion, and prevent dehydration. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day and avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks, and excessive alcohol as they have a dehydrating effect.

You can also stay hydrated by drinking herbal teas, coconut water, and fresh fruit and vegetable juices. Try making a refreshing green smoothie with spinach, banana, and almond milk, or a tropical fruit smoothie with mango, pineapple, and coconut water.

Take care of your mental health

Taking care of your mental health during the Easter break is essential. While eating healthy and staying active can have a positive impact on your mental health, it’s also important to take time for yourself. Make sure to get enough rest, spend time with loved ones, and engage in activities that bring you joy. Taking care of your mental health will not only help you feel better in the moment, but it can also help you maintain good mental health in the long run. Make sure to prioritise your mental health this Easter break and beyond.

Adopting healthy habits during the Easter break can help you return to your studies feeling refreshed and revitalised. So, use this Easter break as an opportunity to prioritize your health, and return to university feeling healthy, focused, and ready to tackle whatever challenges come your way.

Credit: habs.uq.edu.au

High Court fixed July 15 to commence  Dram Oil, Deloitte and Touche trial

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admin
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Court

An Accra High Court, Commercial Division has fixed July 15, 2025, for the commencement of a trial involving Dram Oil and Trading Limited, an oil trading company and Deloitte and Touche.

Dram Oil and Trading Limited (plaintiff) is seeking an order from the court for the payment of $187.596 million, amongst others, from Deloitte and Touche, a globally famous audit firm, arising out of alleged negligence on the part of the audit firm against the Company.

The plaintiff alleged that Deloitte and Touche, the defendant, had been appointed by the Accra High Court in 2018, to undertake an audit work in a case involving the plaintiff and a Bulk oil Distribution Company, Vihama Energy Limited, with whom the plaintiff had previously undertaken an oil transaction using a facility from Cal Bank Ghana Limited.

According to the statement of claim of Dram Oil and Trading Limited, which was filed in court by its counsel, Gaspar Lyle Nii-Aponsah, of Lex Premier Associates, the plaintiff said it had previously been involved in a dispute of a commercial nature brought against it and other defendants by Cal Bank Ghana Limited, arising out of a refined oil transaction between the Company, Vihama Energy Limited and Cal Bank.

The Company said after it became victorious in the year 2015 in the suit initiated by Cal Bank against it and the other defendants, Deloitte and Touche was appointed to audit the receivables, payments and under-recoveries due from Vihama Energy to Dram Oil, which the court found in its judgment had been received by Vihama Energy, but withheld from Dram Oil causing Dram Oil to default on its facility obligation to Cal Bank.

In the current suit, Dram Oil also alleged that the judgment it won in 2015 had firmly found that Vihama Energy had been paid fully all fees owed by Dram Oil under the Tripartite Agreement covering the oil transaction and, therefore, Vihama Energy was not entitled to any further sums, the reality of which led Vihama Energy to withdraw its previously filed counterclaim.

It was further alleged that it was for these reasons, amongst others, that in the High Court judgement dated May 18, 2015, presided over by Justice NovisiAryene made further consequential orders for the appointment of a reputable audit firm to audit the books, records and inventory of Vihama Energy Limited.

Dram Oil said the orders were particularly with respect to payments, receivables, emergency cargo under recoveries received and withheld by Vihama Energy Limited under its Tripartite Agreement with Cal Bank and Dram Oil and Trading Limited.

It was compliance with the consequential orders that eventually led to Dram Oil and Trading entering into an agreement with Deloitte and Touche to undertake that assignment.

Dram Oil alleged that, subsequently, Deloitte and Touche tendered its audit report from the assignment, which concluded that Dram Oil was rather indebted to Vihama Energy by a significant sum of money.

It also alleged that the said report was being adopted by the court after Deloitte and Touche’s Partner, who had overseen the audit, Mr. Daniel Owusu, had been cross-examined by lawyers for Dram Oil and Cal Bank on how Deloitte and Touche reached the conclusions it did in the audit report.

GNA

 

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