By Stephen K Effah
Saturday, 29 March 2008
A Tripartite Committee, made up of representatives of the Ghanaian and Liberian governments and the UNHCR, has been formed to monitor and handle the situation of Liberian refugees in Ghana, and oversee their eventual repatriation home.
This follows consultations in Accra between the two governments and the UNHCR as a result of the recent protests by the refugees at the Buduburam settlement over their repatriation package.
Mr Kwamena Bartels, Minister of the Interior, led Ghana’s team for the talks, while Mrs Olubanke King-Akerele, Liberia’s Foreign Minister, led that country’s delegation.
A joint statement signed by Nana Obiri Boahene, Minister of State at the Interior Ministry , and Mrs King-Akerele, said the refugees will be dispersed for better management and monitoring in consonance with the mandate of the tripartite committee.
It said those refugees currently at the Kordiabe camp should be returned to the Buduburam settlement and subjected to good behaviour and respect for Ghana laws.
The statement said that those refugees who registered to return voluntarily under the UNHCR Voluntary Repatriation Programme prior to the crisis, would be encouraged to do so.
It acknowledged the concrete steps achieved so far following deliberations between the representatives of the two governments, citing the termination of the month-long protest by the women in the camp.
Other achievements, the statement mentioned, include a decision by the UNHCR to resume its voluntary repatriation pro-gramme and normal humanitarian assistance to the refugees at the settlement.
It said there is also "recognition and acceptance by the Liberian refugees that repatriation back to Liberia is the only viable option."
Mrs King-Akerele was grateful to the Ghana government for its cooperation, "We appreciate that we had concrete achievements," she said, adding that the Liberian government is happy that the UNHCR has decided to resume its voluntary repatriation.
She apologised to the Ghana government for the embarrassment the protests have caused the country, saying "they expressed regrets when we met with them."
She expressed her government’s readiness to assist the committee in its work.
Nana Boahene assured the Liberian delegation that Ghanaians will live with the refugees in harmony.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Thursday, March 27, 2008
CHRAJ Sensitizes Media On Human Rights Issues
By Stephen K. Effah
Wednesday, 19 March 2008
The first of a series in regional sensiti-sation workshops aimed at broadening journalists’ knowledge on human rights issues to enable them to report on such issues more efficiently, was held in Accra yesterday.
Organised by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), it sought to educate them on the functions of the commission and to strengthen its relationship with the media.
A Deputy Commissioner of CHRAJ, Richard Quayson, said that the peace that the country is enjoying is due mainly to the growing culture of respect for human rights and dignity.
As a result, he said, the commission does not take the issue of human rights and dignity for granted.
Since the establishment of the commission, he said, it has pursued an agenda aimed at realising a free, just and equitable society where fundamental human rights are protected
"Our agenda, therefore, is to deepen this culture of respect for human rights and human dignity, and make it the way of life for all persons," he added.
The commission is promoting and inculcating values of integrity and accountability within the body politic and also helping to fight corruption in all its forms, Mr Quayson said.
That, he explained, is the surest way to develop peace, security and friendly relationships within the country and promote social progress and better standard of life in larger freedom.
He said the commission requires credible partners committed to defend the cause of freedom and of right to accomplish its mandate, and therefore urged the media, which the CHRAJ sees as a credible partner, to help.
Mr Quayson said the partnership between the media and the commission would begin a new wave of human rights consciousness "where people of all walks of life will be empowered with human rights knowledge."
Reverend Duke Hammond, Director of Administration of CHRAJ, said the fact that the commission has does not often investigate high-profile cases does not mean it is not working, adding that there are a lot of cases it had addressed without making it public.
He said that CHRAJ is rated as one of the best human rights institutions in Africa and the world at large, hence it will not rest on its oars.
Rev. Hammond urged the media to establish human rights desk in their various organisations to promote human right issues which are not covered extensively, saying it will go a long way to help the commission and the country.
He said that out of the 138 districts in the country, the commission is present in only 100 districts but they are being manned by university graduates, adding that the commission will do an audit of the newly created districts to establish which of them needs an office as a matter of urgency.
The commission has the mandate to "investigate private enterprises as far as violation of human rights is concerned," but cannot investigate an issue before a court or judicial tribunal.
"We cannot investigate a matter involving relations or dealings between the government and any other government or an international organisation and a matter relating to the exercise of prerogative of mercy," he stated.
Most of the cases addressed by the CHRAJ, he said, are done through negotiations and mediation, adding "not more than three per cent go through full blown panel hearings."
Rev Hammond underscored the need for government to resource the commission to reduce its dependence on donors, whose support come with some constraints.
Wednesday, 19 March 2008
The first of a series in regional sensiti-sation workshops aimed at broadening journalists’ knowledge on human rights issues to enable them to report on such issues more efficiently, was held in Accra yesterday.
Organised by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), it sought to educate them on the functions of the commission and to strengthen its relationship with the media.
A Deputy Commissioner of CHRAJ, Richard Quayson, said that the peace that the country is enjoying is due mainly to the growing culture of respect for human rights and dignity.
As a result, he said, the commission does not take the issue of human rights and dignity for granted.
Since the establishment of the commission, he said, it has pursued an agenda aimed at realising a free, just and equitable society where fundamental human rights are protected
"Our agenda, therefore, is to deepen this culture of respect for human rights and human dignity, and make it the way of life for all persons," he added.
The commission is promoting and inculcating values of integrity and accountability within the body politic and also helping to fight corruption in all its forms, Mr Quayson said.
That, he explained, is the surest way to develop peace, security and friendly relationships within the country and promote social progress and better standard of life in larger freedom.
He said the commission requires credible partners committed to defend the cause of freedom and of right to accomplish its mandate, and therefore urged the media, which the CHRAJ sees as a credible partner, to help.
Mr Quayson said the partnership between the media and the commission would begin a new wave of human rights consciousness "where people of all walks of life will be empowered with human rights knowledge."
Reverend Duke Hammond, Director of Administration of CHRAJ, said the fact that the commission has does not often investigate high-profile cases does not mean it is not working, adding that there are a lot of cases it had addressed without making it public.
He said that CHRAJ is rated as one of the best human rights institutions in Africa and the world at large, hence it will not rest on its oars.
Rev. Hammond urged the media to establish human rights desk in their various organisations to promote human right issues which are not covered extensively, saying it will go a long way to help the commission and the country.
He said that out of the 138 districts in the country, the commission is present in only 100 districts but they are being manned by university graduates, adding that the commission will do an audit of the newly created districts to establish which of them needs an office as a matter of urgency.
The commission has the mandate to "investigate private enterprises as far as violation of human rights is concerned," but cannot investigate an issue before a court or judicial tribunal.
"We cannot investigate a matter involving relations or dealings between the government and any other government or an international organisation and a matter relating to the exercise of prerogative of mercy," he stated.
Most of the cases addressed by the CHRAJ, he said, are done through negotiations and mediation, adding "not more than three per cent go through full blown panel hearings."
Rev Hammond underscored the need for government to resource the commission to reduce its dependence on donors, whose support come with some constraints.
A Trafficked Woman's Ordeal In Russia
By Stephen K. Effah
Thursday, 27 March 2008
A VIVID example of what some people go through in their bid to seek greener pastures in Europe emerged on Tuesday at a forum on human trafficking.
With a monthly income of GH¢150 in Ghana, a bread baker’s dream of earning more money in Russia as a nanny turned sour when she found herself lured into prostitution.
Desperate to travel, she abandoned baking and was trafficked to Russia.
On her arrival in Russia, where she thought she would be working as a nanny, she was housed with some Ghanaians and Nigerians for two weeks after which her passport was seized and she was given a cell phone, taxi fare, and an address at where she was to start work.
It was not until she arrived at the address that she found out that she was to work as a prostitute, and had to on the spot sexually satisfy three men.
Luckily, she was able to contact the Ghana Consulate in Russia which rescued her the next day.
Mr Eric Peasah, Counter-Trafficking Field Manager of the International Organisation of Migration narrated the ordeal of the bread baker at a media forum on human trafficking in Accra on Tuesday.
He blamed the increasing cases of human trafficking in the country on the desire of many Ghanaians to travel abroad.
"Trafficking in persons is increasing these days because people are desperate to travel, especially so at a time advertisements and flyers promising work abroad are everywhere," he said.
He advised people to be circumspect in their desire to seek greener pasture abroad in order to avoid being victims of human trafficking.
Mr Peasah called for a concerted effort to nip in the bud the emerging human trafficking in Ghana , saying even though statistics are scarce due to the underground nature of the business, since 2002, 642 children trafficked to work in fishing communities along the Volta Lake have been rescued by his organisation.
Children as young as three years are trafficked by their parents to work in fishing communities along the lake due to poverty but, Mr Peasah said, the good news is that people are now discerning and "some have now started going for their children due to the suffering the children go through."
The forum, organised by the Christian Council of Ghana as part of its anti-child trafficking programme, was aimed at building the capacity of journalists in reporting on human trafficking.
Thursday, 27 March 2008
A VIVID example of what some people go through in their bid to seek greener pastures in Europe emerged on Tuesday at a forum on human trafficking.
With a monthly income of GH¢150 in Ghana, a bread baker’s dream of earning more money in Russia as a nanny turned sour when she found herself lured into prostitution.
Desperate to travel, she abandoned baking and was trafficked to Russia.
On her arrival in Russia, where she thought she would be working as a nanny, she was housed with some Ghanaians and Nigerians for two weeks after which her passport was seized and she was given a cell phone, taxi fare, and an address at where she was to start work.
It was not until she arrived at the address that she found out that she was to work as a prostitute, and had to on the spot sexually satisfy three men.
Luckily, she was able to contact the Ghana Consulate in Russia which rescued her the next day.
Mr Eric Peasah, Counter-Trafficking Field Manager of the International Organisation of Migration narrated the ordeal of the bread baker at a media forum on human trafficking in Accra on Tuesday.
He blamed the increasing cases of human trafficking in the country on the desire of many Ghanaians to travel abroad.
"Trafficking in persons is increasing these days because people are desperate to travel, especially so at a time advertisements and flyers promising work abroad are everywhere," he said.
He advised people to be circumspect in their desire to seek greener pasture abroad in order to avoid being victims of human trafficking.
Mr Peasah called for a concerted effort to nip in the bud the emerging human trafficking in Ghana , saying even though statistics are scarce due to the underground nature of the business, since 2002, 642 children trafficked to work in fishing communities along the Volta Lake have been rescued by his organisation.
Children as young as three years are trafficked by their parents to work in fishing communities along the lake due to poverty but, Mr Peasah said, the good news is that people are now discerning and "some have now started going for their children due to the suffering the children go through."
The forum, organised by the Christian Council of Ghana as part of its anti-child trafficking programme, was aimed at building the capacity of journalists in reporting on human trafficking.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
28th Feb Shooting Incident Immortalised In Film
By Stephen K. Effah
Saturday, 01 March 2008
AN animated film on the three Ghanaian ex-servicemen gunned down by a British colonial police officer on February 28, 1948, whose deaths marked a turning point in the independence struggle, is expected to be premiered on July 1, in Accra.
The 60-minute cartoon film was outdoored on Thursday, to mark the 60th anniversary of the incident.
It is aimed at presenting the event from the perspective of some of the veterans who witnessed it, to the children and the youth in an interesting manner.
Produced by Parable Productions, advocates of students and children’s literature through folklore, "28 February-Crossroads" forms part of a National Heroes project by the company to revisit some significant events in Ghana’s history in an animated form.
The film begins with the normal life of the three veterans Sergeant Adjetey, Corporal Attipoe and Private Odartey Lamptey through to their gunning down on February 28 at the Osu (Christiansborg) Castle.They were on their way to present a petition on their conditions of service to the then governor of the Gold Coast.
The three who fought with their allied forces during the Second World War, were former members of the Gold Coast Regiment of the Royal West African Frontier Force.
Soundtrack for the film, which is in production, was chosen from the 1940s and 1950’s classic tunes including that of the legendary E. T. Mensah — Ekuusen baadon, "Tea, tea, tea" as well as Ephraim Amu’s Yen ara asase ni.
Also, the company is working on similar animated films, "Tetteh Quarshie and the Golden Pod", "Asantewaa — The Making of a Kingdom" and "The Pride of Adinkra" among others.
It will also come out with a 30 minute TV series on children called Akwaaba.
Speaking to Times Weekend, Cecil Jones Abban, President of Parables Productions, said it was about time that historical events of the country are explored and presented in an interesting manner to the youth.
He expressed regret that most of the historical events and stories about the country’s heroes are left for foreigners to tell which should not be the case, adding that most of the heroes were resourceful, thus good role models to project for the children to learn from.
The company needs about GH¢200,000 to finish the work on the animated cartoon and called for the support of all stakeholders and corporate organisations to support the project.
Mr Abban underscored the need for the country to recognise animated movies since it has the potential to earn the country huge sums of money and at the same time create awareness about pertinent moral issues.
Saturday, 01 March 2008
AN animated film on the three Ghanaian ex-servicemen gunned down by a British colonial police officer on February 28, 1948, whose deaths marked a turning point in the independence struggle, is expected to be premiered on July 1, in Accra.
The 60-minute cartoon film was outdoored on Thursday, to mark the 60th anniversary of the incident.
It is aimed at presenting the event from the perspective of some of the veterans who witnessed it, to the children and the youth in an interesting manner.
Produced by Parable Productions, advocates of students and children’s literature through folklore, "28 February-Crossroads" forms part of a National Heroes project by the company to revisit some significant events in Ghana’s history in an animated form.
The film begins with the normal life of the three veterans Sergeant Adjetey, Corporal Attipoe and Private Odartey Lamptey through to their gunning down on February 28 at the Osu (Christiansborg) Castle.They were on their way to present a petition on their conditions of service to the then governor of the Gold Coast.
The three who fought with their allied forces during the Second World War, were former members of the Gold Coast Regiment of the Royal West African Frontier Force.
Soundtrack for the film, which is in production, was chosen from the 1940s and 1950’s classic tunes including that of the legendary E. T. Mensah — Ekuusen baadon, "Tea, tea, tea" as well as Ephraim Amu’s Yen ara asase ni.
Also, the company is working on similar animated films, "Tetteh Quarshie and the Golden Pod", "Asantewaa — The Making of a Kingdom" and "The Pride of Adinkra" among others.
It will also come out with a 30 minute TV series on children called Akwaaba.
Speaking to Times Weekend, Cecil Jones Abban, President of Parables Productions, said it was about time that historical events of the country are explored and presented in an interesting manner to the youth.
He expressed regret that most of the historical events and stories about the country’s heroes are left for foreigners to tell which should not be the case, adding that most of the heroes were resourceful, thus good role models to project for the children to learn from.
The company needs about GH¢200,000 to finish the work on the animated cartoon and called for the support of all stakeholders and corporate organisations to support the project.
Mr Abban underscored the need for the country to recognise animated movies since it has the potential to earn the country huge sums of money and at the same time create awareness about pertinent moral issues.
Burger Highlife Rocks National Theatre
By Stephen K. Effah
Saturday, 15 March 2008
THE second Burger High-life Concert staged at the National Theatre in Accra last Saturday, proved that highlife is firmly rooted in the country to the extent that no other genre can match its popularity.
It undoubtedly generated nostalgia for great songs and performances of the 1980s and the early 1990s.
For about three hours, six of the maestros of that genre took turns to deliver old hits, bringing back fond memories to the audience.
In spite of the low turnout, the event, organised by the Goethe Institut to celebrate and to let the public have a feel of the spirit and rhythm of highlife in order to revive the genre, lived up to its expectation.
No wonder the audience yearned for more, performance after performance. With their classical performance characterised by good singing, thrilling stagecraft and great backing by the Systems Band, Ben Brako, Pat Thomas, Lee Duodu, Charles Amoah, George Darko and Mc God left the audience relishing the evening.
The great performances of Lee Duodu, Charles Amoah and Mc God made them the toast of the concert which was emceed by Fritz Baffuor who added different flavour to the show through his appropriate jokes.
The great keyboardist, Bob Fiscian set the ball rolling with his nifty touches of the keyboard as he dished out some fantastic tunes while the audience sat to listen before Ben Brako took over to perform some of his tracks.
When Mc God mounted the stage at exactly 9.55 pm, the auditorium lit up with the performance of some of his hits lit including ‘Mo Ye Bue, Moye Kenken,’ a song dedicated to the various professionals whose efforts are moving the nation forward.
Others were ‘Mr. Okwaa Donto’ and ‘Highlife Agogo,’ which the audience sang along perfectly. Dressed in a specially designed African print, which had the photographs of the Big Six embossed on it, his robot-style dance moves triggered laughter among the audience.
The excitement continued when the man with the "golden voice," Pat Thomas, took his turn to deliver four of his hit songs which included ‘Sika Ye Mogya’ and ‘Woma Menka Bi’.
Charles Amoah’s ‘Eye Odo Asem’ and ‘Asaawa Do’ got the patrons to their feet. Apparently inspired by the response from the audience, he removed his jacket to display his skilful footwork. and got the patrons to their feet.
Apparently inspired by the response from the audience, he removed his jacket to display his skilful footwork.
Then came the time, when Lee Duodu took charge of the microphone at 11. 10 pm to dish out some of his memorable repertoire. The excitement reach crescendo.
Delivering tracks like "Mafro Odo Mpa’, ‘Akwankwa Tia’ and ‘Odo Beba Na Maye Atiaa’, Lee Duodu pulled the crowd to their feet. The audience yearned for more even as he announced the end of his performance.
Then it was the turn of the ‘Ako Te Brofo’ man, George Darko, who displayed his skill on the guitar.
He performed ‘Mene Me Dear’ and ‘Odo Colour’ and ended with a track, Ayisha from his yet to be released album which unfortunately failed to move the audience to their feet to end the night as it had begun.
The Systems Band, proved their mastery of the various musical instruments as they played the different songs with consistency and perfection.
Saturday, 15 March 2008
THE second Burger High-life Concert staged at the National Theatre in Accra last Saturday, proved that highlife is firmly rooted in the country to the extent that no other genre can match its popularity.
It undoubtedly generated nostalgia for great songs and performances of the 1980s and the early 1990s.
For about three hours, six of the maestros of that genre took turns to deliver old hits, bringing back fond memories to the audience.
In spite of the low turnout, the event, organised by the Goethe Institut to celebrate and to let the public have a feel of the spirit and rhythm of highlife in order to revive the genre, lived up to its expectation.
No wonder the audience yearned for more, performance after performance. With their classical performance characterised by good singing, thrilling stagecraft and great backing by the Systems Band, Ben Brako, Pat Thomas, Lee Duodu, Charles Amoah, George Darko and Mc God left the audience relishing the evening.
The great performances of Lee Duodu, Charles Amoah and Mc God made them the toast of the concert which was emceed by Fritz Baffuor who added different flavour to the show through his appropriate jokes.
The great keyboardist, Bob Fiscian set the ball rolling with his nifty touches of the keyboard as he dished out some fantastic tunes while the audience sat to listen before Ben Brako took over to perform some of his tracks.
When Mc God mounted the stage at exactly 9.55 pm, the auditorium lit up with the performance of some of his hits lit including ‘Mo Ye Bue, Moye Kenken,’ a song dedicated to the various professionals whose efforts are moving the nation forward.
Others were ‘Mr. Okwaa Donto’ and ‘Highlife Agogo,’ which the audience sang along perfectly. Dressed in a specially designed African print, which had the photographs of the Big Six embossed on it, his robot-style dance moves triggered laughter among the audience.
The excitement continued when the man with the "golden voice," Pat Thomas, took his turn to deliver four of his hit songs which included ‘Sika Ye Mogya’ and ‘Woma Menka Bi’.
Charles Amoah’s ‘Eye Odo Asem’ and ‘Asaawa Do’ got the patrons to their feet. Apparently inspired by the response from the audience, he removed his jacket to display his skilful footwork. and got the patrons to their feet.
Apparently inspired by the response from the audience, he removed his jacket to display his skilful footwork.
Then came the time, when Lee Duodu took charge of the microphone at 11. 10 pm to dish out some of his memorable repertoire. The excitement reach crescendo.
Delivering tracks like "Mafro Odo Mpa’, ‘Akwankwa Tia’ and ‘Odo Beba Na Maye Atiaa’, Lee Duodu pulled the crowd to their feet. The audience yearned for more even as he announced the end of his performance.
Then it was the turn of the ‘Ako Te Brofo’ man, George Darko, who displayed his skill on the guitar.
He performed ‘Mene Me Dear’ and ‘Odo Colour’ and ended with a track, Ayisha from his yet to be released album which unfortunately failed to move the audience to their feet to end the night as it had begun.
The Systems Band, proved their mastery of the various musical instruments as they played the different songs with consistency and perfection.
Police Swoop On Refugees
By Stephen K.Effah, Buduburam
Tuesday, 18 March 2008
Armed police personnel at dawn yesterday rounded up hundreds of protesting Liberian refugees at their Buduburam set-tlement in the Central Region for demonstrating without a permit in breach of the Public Order Act.
The Public Order Act enjoins groups or individuals who intend to hold a public event to inform the police five days before the event stating the venue and time among other requirements.
The arrest, according to the Interior Ministry, followed their persistent refusal to respect the laws of the country.
The arrested protesters, mostly women and children, have since been taken to the Youth Leadership Training Centre at Kordiable, near Afienya, for screening.
A statement issued by the ministry after their arrest, said those arrested would have their refugee status revoked after they have been screened, adding that "government intends to return all those arrested to Liberia since the war there is over".
The refugees have since February 19, embarked on what they termed "peaceful protest" against the 100 and 50 dollar repatriation package given adults and children below 18 years, respectively, under the UNHCR voluntary repatriation programme.
They are reportedly demanding to be resettled in a western country. The government has denied any intention to integrate them in Ghana.
They have since the beginning of their agitation, been sleeping on a football field in front of the UNHCR repatriation office near the settlement.
Speaking to the Times, the spokesperson of the protestors, Cecilia Garlo, said armed police arrived and surrounded them while they were having their morning service.
Ms Garlo said the leader of the police team walked up to her, and said "you have violated the laws of Ghana. I have come to take you away."
She said, surprised by what the police officer told her, she explained that they were only having a peaceful protest but he ordered the women to board the police trucks. They were driven away in 10 trucks but Ms Garlo said she could not tell how many they were.
When she asked where they were being taken to, the officer replied: "They are being taken to where violators of the law are taken ."
She was prevented from boarding the trucks and was told, "You are the leader so we are bringing a special car to take you away."
One of the women, Deborah B. Solo, weeping, told the Times that her three children, all below the age of 15 and her sister were among those taken away and she did not know what would happen to them.
When the Times got to the settlement at about 8.15 a.m. yesterday, armed police numbering about 400 in anti-riot vans had taken position at vantage points.
Hundreds of the other refugees left their homes at the settlement and assembled at the football field, apparently, to show solidarity with the arrested protesters.
The police team leader who declined to give his name said the police went there to "ensure law and order."
The refugees did not seek permission before going on with their protest which contravenes the Public Order Act, he said and added: "Ghanaian laws don’t allow a group or any individuals to congregate and put themselves or children under harsh conditions," he said.
Interior Minister, Kwamena Bartels, last Tuesday met with the leadership of the refugees to explain to them the illegality of their protest, and warned them to end it, otherwise, the government would be forced to take a decisive action against them.
Tuesday, 18 March 2008
Armed police personnel at dawn yesterday rounded up hundreds of protesting Liberian refugees at their Buduburam set-tlement in the Central Region for demonstrating without a permit in breach of the Public Order Act.
The Public Order Act enjoins groups or individuals who intend to hold a public event to inform the police five days before the event stating the venue and time among other requirements.
The arrest, according to the Interior Ministry, followed their persistent refusal to respect the laws of the country.
The arrested protesters, mostly women and children, have since been taken to the Youth Leadership Training Centre at Kordiable, near Afienya, for screening.
A statement issued by the ministry after their arrest, said those arrested would have their refugee status revoked after they have been screened, adding that "government intends to return all those arrested to Liberia since the war there is over".
The refugees have since February 19, embarked on what they termed "peaceful protest" against the 100 and 50 dollar repatriation package given adults and children below 18 years, respectively, under the UNHCR voluntary repatriation programme.
They are reportedly demanding to be resettled in a western country. The government has denied any intention to integrate them in Ghana.
They have since the beginning of their agitation, been sleeping on a football field in front of the UNHCR repatriation office near the settlement.
Speaking to the Times, the spokesperson of the protestors, Cecilia Garlo, said armed police arrived and surrounded them while they were having their morning service.
Ms Garlo said the leader of the police team walked up to her, and said "you have violated the laws of Ghana. I have come to take you away."
She said, surprised by what the police officer told her, she explained that they were only having a peaceful protest but he ordered the women to board the police trucks. They were driven away in 10 trucks but Ms Garlo said she could not tell how many they were.
When she asked where they were being taken to, the officer replied: "They are being taken to where violators of the law are taken ."
She was prevented from boarding the trucks and was told, "You are the leader so we are bringing a special car to take you away."
One of the women, Deborah B. Solo, weeping, told the Times that her three children, all below the age of 15 and her sister were among those taken away and she did not know what would happen to them.
When the Times got to the settlement at about 8.15 a.m. yesterday, armed police numbering about 400 in anti-riot vans had taken position at vantage points.
Hundreds of the other refugees left their homes at the settlement and assembled at the football field, apparently, to show solidarity with the arrested protesters.
The police team leader who declined to give his name said the police went there to "ensure law and order."
The refugees did not seek permission before going on with their protest which contravenes the Public Order Act, he said and added: "Ghanaian laws don’t allow a group or any individuals to congregate and put themselves or children under harsh conditions," he said.
Interior Minister, Kwamena Bartels, last Tuesday met with the leadership of the refugees to explain to them the illegality of their protest, and warned them to end it, otherwise, the government would be forced to take a decisive action against them.
CHRAJ Sensitizes Media On Human Rights Issues
By Stephen Kwabena Effah
Wednesday, 19 March 2008
The first of a series in regional sensiti-sation workshops aimed at broadening journalists’ knowledge on human rights issues to enable them to report on such issues more efficiently, was held in Accra yesterday.
Organised by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), it sought to educate them on the functions of the commission and to strengthen its relationship with the media.
A Deputy Commissioner of CHRAJ, Richard Quayson, said that the peace that the country is enjoying is due mainly to the growing culture of respect for human rights and dignity.
As a result, he said, the commission does not take the issue of human rights and dignity for granted.
Since the establishment of the commission, he said, it has pursued an agenda aimed at realising a free, just and equitable society where fundamental human rights are protected
"Our agenda, therefore, is to deepen this culture of respect for human rights and human dignity, and make it the way of life for all persons," he added.
The commission is promoting and inculcating values of integrity and accountability within the body politic and also helping to fight corruption in all its forms, Mr Quayson said.
That, he explained, is the surest way to develop peace, security and friendly relationships within the country and promote social progress and better standard of life in larger freedom.
He said the commission requires credible partners committed to defend the cause of freedom and of right to accomplish its mandate, and therefore urged the media, which the CHRAJ sees as a credible partner, to help.
Mr Quayson said the partnership between the media and the commission would begin a new wave of human rights consciousness "where people of all walks of life will be empowered with human rights knowledge."
Reverend Duke Hammond, Director of Administration of CHRAJ, said the fact that the commission has does not often investigate high-profile cases does not mean it is not working, adding that there are a lot of cases it had addressed without making it public.
He said that CHRAJ is rated as one of the best human rights institutions in Africa and the world at large, hence it will not rest on its oars.
Rev. Hammond urged the media to establish human rights desk in their various organisations to promote human right issues which are not covered extensively, saying it will go a long way to help the commission and the country.
He said that out of the 138 districts in the country, the commission is present in only 100 districts but they are being manned by university graduates, adding that the commission will do an audit of the newly created districts to establish which of them needs an office as a matter of urgency.
The commission has the mandate to "investigate private enterprises as far as violation of human rights is concerned," but cannot investigate an issue before a court or judicial tribunal.
"We cannot investigate a matter involving relations or dealings between the government and any other government or an international organisation and a matter relating to the exercise of prerogative of mercy," he stated.
Most of the cases addressed by the CHRAJ, he said, are done through negotiations and mediation, adding "not more than three per cent go through full blown panel hearings."
Rev Hammond underscored the need for government to resource the commission to reduce its dependence on donors, whose support come with some constraints.
Wednesday, 19 March 2008
The first of a series in regional sensiti-sation workshops aimed at broadening journalists’ knowledge on human rights issues to enable them to report on such issues more efficiently, was held in Accra yesterday.
Organised by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), it sought to educate them on the functions of the commission and to strengthen its relationship with the media.
A Deputy Commissioner of CHRAJ, Richard Quayson, said that the peace that the country is enjoying is due mainly to the growing culture of respect for human rights and dignity.
As a result, he said, the commission does not take the issue of human rights and dignity for granted.
Since the establishment of the commission, he said, it has pursued an agenda aimed at realising a free, just and equitable society where fundamental human rights are protected
"Our agenda, therefore, is to deepen this culture of respect for human rights and human dignity, and make it the way of life for all persons," he added.
The commission is promoting and inculcating values of integrity and accountability within the body politic and also helping to fight corruption in all its forms, Mr Quayson said.
That, he explained, is the surest way to develop peace, security and friendly relationships within the country and promote social progress and better standard of life in larger freedom.
He said the commission requires credible partners committed to defend the cause of freedom and of right to accomplish its mandate, and therefore urged the media, which the CHRAJ sees as a credible partner, to help.
Mr Quayson said the partnership between the media and the commission would begin a new wave of human rights consciousness "where people of all walks of life will be empowered with human rights knowledge."
Reverend Duke Hammond, Director of Administration of CHRAJ, said the fact that the commission has does not often investigate high-profile cases does not mean it is not working, adding that there are a lot of cases it had addressed without making it public.
He said that CHRAJ is rated as one of the best human rights institutions in Africa and the world at large, hence it will not rest on its oars.
Rev. Hammond urged the media to establish human rights desk in their various organisations to promote human right issues which are not covered extensively, saying it will go a long way to help the commission and the country.
He said that out of the 138 districts in the country, the commission is present in only 100 districts but they are being manned by university graduates, adding that the commission will do an audit of the newly created districts to establish which of them needs an office as a matter of urgency.
The commission has the mandate to "investigate private enterprises as far as violation of human rights is concerned," but cannot investigate an issue before a court or judicial tribunal.
"We cannot investigate a matter involving relations or dealings between the government and any other government or an international organisation and a matter relating to the exercise of prerogative of mercy," he stated.
Most of the cases addressed by the CHRAJ, he said, are done through negotiations and mediation, adding "not more than three per cent go through full blown panel hearings."
Rev Hammond underscored the need for government to resource the commission to reduce its dependence on donors, whose support come with some constraints.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
President Bush Begins Visit Tuesday
By Stephen K. Effah
Thursday, 14 February 2008
United States President George Bush is due in Ghana next Tuesday, February 19, for a three-day state visit.
The visit forms part of his five-nation tour of Africa also covering Liberia, Sierra Leone, Benin and Tanzania.
President Bush’s visit will be the second time Ghana will be hosting a US president. The first was in 1998 when President Bill Clinton paid a day’s visit to the country.
The Foreign Minister, Akwasi Osei-Adjei, at a news conference in Accra yesterday, said President Bush will be accompanied by his wife, Laura and US business executives.
He said during the visit, Mr. Bush and his host and their respective teams will hold bilateral talks at the Castle.
The talks according to him, will focus on policy initiatives such as the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA), the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), President Bush’s Malaria Initiative Programme, the African Education Initiative and Bush’s Emergency Plan for AIDS relief to which the US has committee over 40 billion dollars support for anti retroviral treatment globally.
The achievements made between Ghana – US private investments, he said, would also feature prominently during the summit.
Mr Osei-Adjei said the summit will review some international topics of interest to both countries, especially Ghana’s role in addressing security concerns in troubled regions since both countries benefit greatly from major military training support in Ghana – US military co-operation.
"Relations between Ghana and US are now at an all time high. Ghana remains poised to take full advantage of the many initiatives of the current administration geared at Africa’s development," he said.
The Foreign Minister said Ghana was currently a focal point of many initiatives under US policy on Africa designed to help the continent to develop with the framework of four main priority areas.
He named the areas as support and promotion of democratic governance and political freedom, expansion of economic growth and opportunity through trade and investment and the fight against HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis.
Thursday, 14 February 2008
United States President George Bush is due in Ghana next Tuesday, February 19, for a three-day state visit.
The visit forms part of his five-nation tour of Africa also covering Liberia, Sierra Leone, Benin and Tanzania.
President Bush’s visit will be the second time Ghana will be hosting a US president. The first was in 1998 when President Bill Clinton paid a day’s visit to the country.
The Foreign Minister, Akwasi Osei-Adjei, at a news conference in Accra yesterday, said President Bush will be accompanied by his wife, Laura and US business executives.
He said during the visit, Mr. Bush and his host and their respective teams will hold bilateral talks at the Castle.
The talks according to him, will focus on policy initiatives such as the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA), the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), President Bush’s Malaria Initiative Programme, the African Education Initiative and Bush’s Emergency Plan for AIDS relief to which the US has committee over 40 billion dollars support for anti retroviral treatment globally.
The achievements made between Ghana – US private investments, he said, would also feature prominently during the summit.
Mr Osei-Adjei said the summit will review some international topics of interest to both countries, especially Ghana’s role in addressing security concerns in troubled regions since both countries benefit greatly from major military training support in Ghana – US military co-operation.
"Relations between Ghana and US are now at an all time high. Ghana remains poised to take full advantage of the many initiatives of the current administration geared at Africa’s development," he said.
The Foreign Minister said Ghana was currently a focal point of many initiatives under US policy on Africa designed to help the continent to develop with the framework of four main priority areas.
He named the areas as support and promotion of democratic governance and political freedom, expansion of economic growth and opportunity through trade and investment and the fight against HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis.
What Will The President Tell The Nation?
By Stephen Kwabena Effah
Thursday, 14 February 2008
President J.A. Kufuor’s State of the Nation Address to Parliament this morning, will focus on how his vision for a humane and prosperous nation has been realised in the past seven years, Andrew Awuni, Press Secretary to the President, has said.
It is his last address to parliament before he hands over to the next president on January 7, 2009.
The State of the Nation Address is a statutory requirement under the 1992 constitution.
Addressing a news conference in Accra yesterday Mr Awuni said "the president will have a lot to share with the nation when he appears before the august house" on his leadership, inspired by development in freedom with emphasis on rule of law and good governance.
He said the President will emphasise on the 2008 budget statement, the economic policy, and his New Year message to underscore the fact that "Ghana today is a healthier state."
The president, will also encourage Ghanaians to tap into the fortunes that have accrued to the nation as a result of seven years of sound economic management and good governance.
"Thus, the president was definite when he declared that Ghana is at the threshold of great prosperity and it requires all Ghanaians to pull together and seize the opportunity to make a giant leap."
One key undertaking worthy of note, this year he said is the President’s continued efforts to strengthen the purchasing power of Ghanaians to further improve on standards of living taking advantage of the policies targeted at mitigating hardship.
Thursday, 14 February 2008
President J.A. Kufuor’s State of the Nation Address to Parliament this morning, will focus on how his vision for a humane and prosperous nation has been realised in the past seven years, Andrew Awuni, Press Secretary to the President, has said.
It is his last address to parliament before he hands over to the next president on January 7, 2009.
The State of the Nation Address is a statutory requirement under the 1992 constitution.
Addressing a news conference in Accra yesterday Mr Awuni said "the president will have a lot to share with the nation when he appears before the august house" on his leadership, inspired by development in freedom with emphasis on rule of law and good governance.
He said the President will emphasise on the 2008 budget statement, the economic policy, and his New Year message to underscore the fact that "Ghana today is a healthier state."
The president, will also encourage Ghanaians to tap into the fortunes that have accrued to the nation as a result of seven years of sound economic management and good governance.
"Thus, the president was definite when he declared that Ghana is at the threshold of great prosperity and it requires all Ghanaians to pull together and seize the opportunity to make a giant leap."
One key undertaking worthy of note, this year he said is the President’s continued efforts to strengthen the purchasing power of Ghanaians to further improve on standards of living taking advantage of the policies targeted at mitigating hardship.
GT Relocates Payphones To Deprived Communities
By Stephen K. Effah
Wednesday, 13 February 2008
Although the advent of mobile phones and their increasing availability is perceived by the general public as a huge blessing, it is having a heavy toll on Ghana Telecom’s (GT) payphones in the country.
Due to the extensive penetration of mobile phones in the country, patronage of GT payphones has reduced drastically in recent years.
Disclosing this to the Times in an interview in Accra yesterday, Joseph Wireko, Manager of Marketing Communications in charge of Fixed Network Services of GT, said the company as a result, is relocating 40 per cent of its public payphones countrywide to schools, hospitals and deprived communities for better utilisation.
However, GT also operates a mobile phone system known as One-touch.On the state of payphones and their patronage in the wake of mobile phone penetration, he stated that payphones are no more economical, saying "we are not making profit from them.
"Payphones have come against heavy competition which we cannot close our eyes to. In the current competitive industry, it has come under severe pressure because of the impact of mobile phones," he pointed out.
Although, he said, the company is not making profit from payphones GT does not deem it appropriate to phase them out since they are indispensable, especially in emergency situations.
Mr.Wireko said that there are two phone cards of the company designed for fixed lines which can also be used on payphones apart from the normal cards for the payphones.
That, he explained, gives people who have those phone cards the opportunity to use payphones at anytime, especially in emergency cases where one has run out of mobile phone credit or battery.
He said the relocation exercise which started last October, will see 20 per cent of the payphones being moved to schools and hospitals and other strategic locations nationwide.
He said 10 per cent would also be taken to deprived communities where GT have existing fixed lines system in place, noting that additional 10 per cent, which would be a GSM (a digital telephone system for transmitting mobile voice and data) based powered by solar energy, would also be sent to communities without fixed lines.
Mr Wireko said that the GT is hoping to add more value to payphones in the future, for example by the addition of voice mail, noting that one can receive calls on payphones which is an advantage to those in deprived communities.
Wednesday, 13 February 2008
Although the advent of mobile phones and their increasing availability is perceived by the general public as a huge blessing, it is having a heavy toll on Ghana Telecom’s (GT) payphones in the country.
Due to the extensive penetration of mobile phones in the country, patronage of GT payphones has reduced drastically in recent years.
Disclosing this to the Times in an interview in Accra yesterday, Joseph Wireko, Manager of Marketing Communications in charge of Fixed Network Services of GT, said the company as a result, is relocating 40 per cent of its public payphones countrywide to schools, hospitals and deprived communities for better utilisation.
However, GT also operates a mobile phone system known as One-touch.On the state of payphones and their patronage in the wake of mobile phone penetration, he stated that payphones are no more economical, saying "we are not making profit from them.
"Payphones have come against heavy competition which we cannot close our eyes to. In the current competitive industry, it has come under severe pressure because of the impact of mobile phones," he pointed out.
Although, he said, the company is not making profit from payphones GT does not deem it appropriate to phase them out since they are indispensable, especially in emergency situations.
Mr.Wireko said that there are two phone cards of the company designed for fixed lines which can also be used on payphones apart from the normal cards for the payphones.
That, he explained, gives people who have those phone cards the opportunity to use payphones at anytime, especially in emergency cases where one has run out of mobile phone credit or battery.
He said the relocation exercise which started last October, will see 20 per cent of the payphones being moved to schools and hospitals and other strategic locations nationwide.
He said 10 per cent would also be taken to deprived communities where GT have existing fixed lines system in place, noting that additional 10 per cent, which would be a GSM (a digital telephone system for transmitting mobile voice and data) based powered by solar energy, would also be sent to communities without fixed lines.
Mr Wireko said that the GT is hoping to add more value to payphones in the future, for example by the addition of voice mail, noting that one can receive calls on payphones which is an advantage to those in deprived communities.
Illegal Structures On GWCL Pipelines To Be Demolished
By Stephen K. Effah
Tuesday, 12 February 2008
Illegal structures along the area earmarked for Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) pipelines from Awoshie through to Abeka in Accra, face demolition, the Minister of Water Resources, Works and Housing, Boniface Alhaji Abubakar Saddique, has stated.
This is to facilitate the laying of pipes from the Weija Treatment Plant to Accra East to ensure free flow of treated water in the area.
Owners of affected structures to be demolished were unable to provide permits on their buildings when contacted by officials of the GWCL and the contractor.
Alhaji Saddique said this in Accra yesterday when he inspected progress of work on the Accra East and Accra West Inter-connection project being funded by the governments of Ghana, Denmark and the Netherlands.
The project encompasses expansion of the Weija Treatment Plant and laying of pipes from Mallam Junction to the Legon Booster Station. Started last year, the project will be completed in November, this year.
Alhaji Saddique said the water requirement of Accra is 150 million gallons daily but current supply is about 55 million gallons.
"Accra’s population is growing at 2.1 per cent while that of water is only one per cent," he noted.
He said 180 million dollars is needed to expand the Kpong Treatment Plant to produce about 40 million gallons of water daily to Accra to augment the inadequate supply.
He said the project when completed, will ease the problem of water shortages in Accra East, which covers Madina, Legon, Haatso, Agbogba and its environs.
Mr Pinkney Raymond, Construction Manager of Ballast Nedam, a Dutch firm and executors of the project, said about 60 per cent of work is complete and assured the Minister that work is on schedule.
Prof. Mike Oquaye, MP for Dome-Kwabenya, who accompanied the Minister, was happy about progress of work so far, noting that the issue of water shortage in the Accra East would soon be over.
He noted that Taifa, for instance, has for years experienced acute water shortage in the metropolis making life unbearable for residents. He urged the contractors to speed up work for water to flow to the people in the area soon.
Tuesday, 12 February 2008
Illegal structures along the area earmarked for Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) pipelines from Awoshie through to Abeka in Accra, face demolition, the Minister of Water Resources, Works and Housing, Boniface Alhaji Abubakar Saddique, has stated.
This is to facilitate the laying of pipes from the Weija Treatment Plant to Accra East to ensure free flow of treated water in the area.
Owners of affected structures to be demolished were unable to provide permits on their buildings when contacted by officials of the GWCL and the contractor.
Alhaji Saddique said this in Accra yesterday when he inspected progress of work on the Accra East and Accra West Inter-connection project being funded by the governments of Ghana, Denmark and the Netherlands.
The project encompasses expansion of the Weija Treatment Plant and laying of pipes from Mallam Junction to the Legon Booster Station. Started last year, the project will be completed in November, this year.
Alhaji Saddique said the water requirement of Accra is 150 million gallons daily but current supply is about 55 million gallons.
"Accra’s population is growing at 2.1 per cent while that of water is only one per cent," he noted.
He said 180 million dollars is needed to expand the Kpong Treatment Plant to produce about 40 million gallons of water daily to Accra to augment the inadequate supply.
He said the project when completed, will ease the problem of water shortages in Accra East, which covers Madina, Legon, Haatso, Agbogba and its environs.
Mr Pinkney Raymond, Construction Manager of Ballast Nedam, a Dutch firm and executors of the project, said about 60 per cent of work is complete and assured the Minister that work is on schedule.
Prof. Mike Oquaye, MP for Dome-Kwabenya, who accompanied the Minister, was happy about progress of work so far, noting that the issue of water shortage in the Accra East would soon be over.
He noted that Taifa, for instance, has for years experienced acute water shortage in the metropolis making life unbearable for residents. He urged the contractors to speed up work for water to flow to the people in the area soon.
Korle-Bu Hospital Problems Compound
By Stephen Kwabena Effah
Monday, 11 February 2008
The normal known challenges of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital have been the lack of doctors, nurses, and other staff, but now it has emerged that another challenge is that of the 50-year-old lifts which break down intermittently, making health service delivery cumbersome.
The breakdown of the elevators in storey buildings at the hospital is hampering work there, says Dr. Benjamin Annan, acting Chief Executive of the hospital.
"Currently, the 32-bed capacity medical and Surgical Emergency Ward is not in use because its elevator is down."
Dr. Annan expressed these concerns when the Health Minister, Major (rtd) Courage Quashiga, last Friday inspected projects completed and ongoing at the hospital.
He said when the elevators are not functioning, personnel of the hospital are obliged to carry patients up the stairs for treatment.
The hospital has contracted an engineer in Switzerland to fix the elevator at the Medical and Surgical Emergency Unit, within two weeks, he said.
At the newly refurbished Gynaecology Theatre, Professor Lassey Anyetei, acting head of the department, said out of the three theatres, only two are functional. The ward needs a diathermy machine, which controls bleeding during surgery, and accessories to make it function.
The minister inspected a five-storey medical ward being renovated by the hospital at a cost of GH¢1.5 million. The building, constructed in the 1960s will after renovation, accommodate the intensive care unit, pharmacy and conference hall among others.
Dan Seedah of Macdons Engineering Consult, contractors for the project, told the minister that work started on the building five years ago but was delayed until two years ago due to infrequent cash flow.
A major problem has been the procurement of materials because of the slow procurement process but said that is being fast-tracked, noting that work is expected to be complete by July this year.
The minister inspected a 16-block housing project being undertaken by the Health Ministry.
Mr Jackson Amankwah, head of Capital Investment and management unit of the ministry said seven blocks have so far been completed for allocation.
He said that they have run out of funds and thus requested ¢14.5 million from the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning to complete the rest of the blocks in three years.
He said the blocks would be allocated to health workers, especially doctors to solve their accommodation problem.
Dr. Annan appealed to the ministry to allocate about 90 per cent of the blocks to health workers of the hospital since they were instrumental in the projects and also because they are close to the hospital.
Maj. Quashigah said the blocks are useful for, especially new doctors’ accommodation, adding, "We will make sure the hospital gets the majority of them."
He urged them to draw a maintenance plan for all their projects to ensure that proper maintenance work are carried out all the time as would be spelt out in the plan.
Monday, 11 February 2008
The normal known challenges of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital have been the lack of doctors, nurses, and other staff, but now it has emerged that another challenge is that of the 50-year-old lifts which break down intermittently, making health service delivery cumbersome.
The breakdown of the elevators in storey buildings at the hospital is hampering work there, says Dr. Benjamin Annan, acting Chief Executive of the hospital.
"Currently, the 32-bed capacity medical and Surgical Emergency Ward is not in use because its elevator is down."
Dr. Annan expressed these concerns when the Health Minister, Major (rtd) Courage Quashiga, last Friday inspected projects completed and ongoing at the hospital.
He said when the elevators are not functioning, personnel of the hospital are obliged to carry patients up the stairs for treatment.
The hospital has contracted an engineer in Switzerland to fix the elevator at the Medical and Surgical Emergency Unit, within two weeks, he said.
At the newly refurbished Gynaecology Theatre, Professor Lassey Anyetei, acting head of the department, said out of the three theatres, only two are functional. The ward needs a diathermy machine, which controls bleeding during surgery, and accessories to make it function.
The minister inspected a five-storey medical ward being renovated by the hospital at a cost of GH¢1.5 million. The building, constructed in the 1960s will after renovation, accommodate the intensive care unit, pharmacy and conference hall among others.
Dan Seedah of Macdons Engineering Consult, contractors for the project, told the minister that work started on the building five years ago but was delayed until two years ago due to infrequent cash flow.
A major problem has been the procurement of materials because of the slow procurement process but said that is being fast-tracked, noting that work is expected to be complete by July this year.
The minister inspected a 16-block housing project being undertaken by the Health Ministry.
Mr Jackson Amankwah, head of Capital Investment and management unit of the ministry said seven blocks have so far been completed for allocation.
He said that they have run out of funds and thus requested ¢14.5 million from the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning to complete the rest of the blocks in three years.
He said the blocks would be allocated to health workers, especially doctors to solve their accommodation problem.
Dr. Annan appealed to the ministry to allocate about 90 per cent of the blocks to health workers of the hospital since they were instrumental in the projects and also because they are close to the hospital.
Maj. Quashigah said the blocks are useful for, especially new doctors’ accommodation, adding, "We will make sure the hospital gets the majority of them."
He urged them to draw a maintenance plan for all their projects to ensure that proper maintenance work are carried out all the time as would be spelt out in the plan.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Is A-Plus a musician or politician?
By Stephen Kwabena Effah
Saturday, January 26,2008
Is he a politician in disguise, or Just a bigot exercising his freedom of speech through music as enshrined in the 1992 Constitution?
He is A-Plus, and could best be described as a "political satirist" in the Ghanaian music landscape.
His name, perhaps when mentioned, prompts politicians to "run for cover" because of their "politricks". For seven years now, his punchy but straight-forward lyrics on the country's political arena have brought him under severe criticism and scrutiny by some politicians and a number of people.
But the 30-year-old unrepentant hip-life artiste is unperturbed about what his critics say about his lyrics, and is bent on unleashing another 'bomb' this year but this time, on African politics.In an exclusive interview with The Spectator this week, he explained that his decision to move to African politics was borne out of the fact that "politics is broad. It is not about NPP and NDC.
I want to show that I'm not a local champion." He said the spotlight of his new album, which he described as "extra punchy and knockout," would be on "anyone (politician) who is making Africa difficult to stay in," adding that politicians should see their people as God-given to them to take care of “and not as slaves."
He mentioned General Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria, and the Member of Parliament for Nkawkaw, Kwabena Adusah Okerchiri, among other African politicians as those to be featured in his upcoming album expected to be out during the Easter Festivities.
He told The Spectator that he decided to throw the searchlight on Atiku Abubakar because he is said to own about 800 cars, which he said, their acquisition is doubtful while Kwabena Okerchiri on the other hand, has also become a pompous leader.
A-Plus, who spoke with confidence and showed off his maturity and knowledge on African politics, expressed worry at how some African politicians and leaders have taken advantage of political power to amass wealth to the detriment of their people.
He observed that corruption has characterised African leadership, and as a result, politicians are bent on being in power for long, even when their term of office expires “so that they can continue stealing and oppress their people.”
His next album is anticipated to, as usual, lampoon top African leaders and politicians whose administration has been or was characterised by bad governance with its resultant corruption and death of people.
So, will the Southern African country, Zimbabwe, and its 'defiant' President Robert Gabriel Mugabe, be punched for his reportedly 'bad governance'? And what about the recent post electoral crisis in Kenya?
It is important that such politicians should take a cursory look at the end of the likes of former Liberian President, Charles Taylor, and former President of Zaire, Mobutu Sese Seko, and take a lesson from it before it's too late, he advised. "How they ended up should be a guide to all African leaders and politicians," he added.
Touching on the local political front, he said that the NPP flag bearer for the 2008 elections, Nana Akuffo-Addo, is one politician he admires, saying "Nana Addo is my godfather". When asked why, he said: "Nana Addo is an individual who has been in politics for long and came out clean".
"I also like freedom fighters like Kwaku Baako and Kwesi Pratt. I'm crazy about them" he added, and urged Ghanaians to celebrate them since some fifty years to come, these freedom fighters would take over from Dr. Kwame Nkrumah who would not be "remembered" again.
Before the NPP December congress last year, he said, some of the presidential aspirants and other politicians approached him to do a song for them but rejected all those offers, some of which were ready to pay a whopping 40,000 dollars!.
He said that, his single "Da no"(That Day) which gave Nana Addo thumps up and recommended that delegates voted him as the NPP aspirant, was something he decided to do for him. "Nana never paid A-Plus one cedi.
He didn't approach me for a song for his campaign," he pointed out. Being a member of the Friends of Nana Akuffo-Addo and his godfather, he made up his mind to do the song for him as his contribution to the campaign, saying "it was something I was dying to do".
A-Plus explained that it was after the song has been made that Nana even got to know about it, and adopted it out of the lots he received from other musicians and people. "All the production and everything were then paid for by Nana Addo," he said.
He told The Spectator that he is ready to do a song for any politician irrespective of his political affiliation but that person should be a rare leader with issues and must have the country and its people at heart.
Not only is A-Plus a 'kanawu' musician, he is also set to take a centre stage in comedy as he has successful passed two tests of comedy shows in August and December last year. He said he wants to prove his versatility. ''The talent is there and I only need to unearth it," he said.
The Spectator finally asked him the big question which has been bothering the minds of many people: Is A-Plus a politician, which he answered with questions. 'Was Fela Kuti a politician? Is the American group, Black Eyed Peas politicians? Both Fela and the Black Eyed-Peas have been singing about corruption, injustice and bad governance in society.
Saturday, January 26,2008
Is he a politician in disguise, or Just a bigot exercising his freedom of speech through music as enshrined in the 1992 Constitution?
He is A-Plus, and could best be described as a "political satirist" in the Ghanaian music landscape.
His name, perhaps when mentioned, prompts politicians to "run for cover" because of their "politricks". For seven years now, his punchy but straight-forward lyrics on the country's political arena have brought him under severe criticism and scrutiny by some politicians and a number of people.
But the 30-year-old unrepentant hip-life artiste is unperturbed about what his critics say about his lyrics, and is bent on unleashing another 'bomb' this year but this time, on African politics.In an exclusive interview with The Spectator this week, he explained that his decision to move to African politics was borne out of the fact that "politics is broad. It is not about NPP and NDC.
I want to show that I'm not a local champion." He said the spotlight of his new album, which he described as "extra punchy and knockout," would be on "anyone (politician) who is making Africa difficult to stay in," adding that politicians should see their people as God-given to them to take care of “and not as slaves."
He mentioned General Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria, and the Member of Parliament for Nkawkaw, Kwabena Adusah Okerchiri, among other African politicians as those to be featured in his upcoming album expected to be out during the Easter Festivities.
He told The Spectator that he decided to throw the searchlight on Atiku Abubakar because he is said to own about 800 cars, which he said, their acquisition is doubtful while Kwabena Okerchiri on the other hand, has also become a pompous leader.
A-Plus, who spoke with confidence and showed off his maturity and knowledge on African politics, expressed worry at how some African politicians and leaders have taken advantage of political power to amass wealth to the detriment of their people.
He observed that corruption has characterised African leadership, and as a result, politicians are bent on being in power for long, even when their term of office expires “so that they can continue stealing and oppress their people.”
His next album is anticipated to, as usual, lampoon top African leaders and politicians whose administration has been or was characterised by bad governance with its resultant corruption and death of people.
So, will the Southern African country, Zimbabwe, and its 'defiant' President Robert Gabriel Mugabe, be punched for his reportedly 'bad governance'? And what about the recent post electoral crisis in Kenya?
It is important that such politicians should take a cursory look at the end of the likes of former Liberian President, Charles Taylor, and former President of Zaire, Mobutu Sese Seko, and take a lesson from it before it's too late, he advised. "How they ended up should be a guide to all African leaders and politicians," he added.
Touching on the local political front, he said that the NPP flag bearer for the 2008 elections, Nana Akuffo-Addo, is one politician he admires, saying "Nana Addo is my godfather". When asked why, he said: "Nana Addo is an individual who has been in politics for long and came out clean".
"I also like freedom fighters like Kwaku Baako and Kwesi Pratt. I'm crazy about them" he added, and urged Ghanaians to celebrate them since some fifty years to come, these freedom fighters would take over from Dr. Kwame Nkrumah who would not be "remembered" again.
Before the NPP December congress last year, he said, some of the presidential aspirants and other politicians approached him to do a song for them but rejected all those offers, some of which were ready to pay a whopping 40,000 dollars!.
He said that, his single "Da no"(That Day) which gave Nana Addo thumps up and recommended that delegates voted him as the NPP aspirant, was something he decided to do for him. "Nana never paid A-Plus one cedi.
He didn't approach me for a song for his campaign," he pointed out. Being a member of the Friends of Nana Akuffo-Addo and his godfather, he made up his mind to do the song for him as his contribution to the campaign, saying "it was something I was dying to do".
A-Plus explained that it was after the song has been made that Nana even got to know about it, and adopted it out of the lots he received from other musicians and people. "All the production and everything were then paid for by Nana Addo," he said.
He told The Spectator that he is ready to do a song for any politician irrespective of his political affiliation but that person should be a rare leader with issues and must have the country and its people at heart.
Not only is A-Plus a 'kanawu' musician, he is also set to take a centre stage in comedy as he has successful passed two tests of comedy shows in August and December last year. He said he wants to prove his versatility. ''The talent is there and I only need to unearth it," he said.
The Spectator finally asked him the big question which has been bothering the minds of many people: Is A-Plus a politician, which he answered with questions. 'Was Fela Kuti a politician? Is the American group, Black Eyed Peas politicians? Both Fela and the Black Eyed-Peas have been singing about corruption, injustice and bad governance in society.
Go Africa! Concert Tonight
By Stephen Kwabena Effah
Saturday, 19 January 2008
THE United Kingdom’s most highly regarded roots-reggae band, Steel Pulse, will tonight lead an array of celebrated African musicians at the Independence Square in Accra to start the Ghana 2008 football tourney in a musical way. It has been dubbed the "Go Africa Concert".
The show is expected to draw both foreign and local football and music lovers across Africa who have arrived in the country for the 2008 MTN Africa Cup of Nations, Ghana 2008, which begins tomorrow.
Billed to perform alongside the Grammy award-winning band are the female trio from Uganda, Blu 3; Orentchy from Cote D’Ivore, King Nee from Togo, Nigeria’s 2 Face Idibia, Malaika from South Africa, Don Metok from Benin and a host of others.
Representing Ghana are the now most sought for artistes in the hip life industry, Batman Samini, Tic Tac, Ofori Amponsah and Kwaw Kesse among others.
The audience is assured of nothing but pure music of all genres which would be brewed with football actions to herald the opening match between the Ghana Black Stars and Guinea on Sunday afternoon at the Ohene Djan Stadium in Accra.
Malaika is expected to treat the fans to some Afro pop music while the multi-lingual Orentchy dish out some refreshing francophone and funky music with the Ghanaian artistes delivering some great hip life and highlife tunes.
According to the organisers, fans should count on the several artistes for their favourite songs as the artistes are really poised to deliver to make the 2008 tournament a memorable one in its history.
The "Go Africa Concert" has been put together by MTN in collaboration with other partners and powered by Charter House Productions.
Saturday, 19 January 2008
THE United Kingdom’s most highly regarded roots-reggae band, Steel Pulse, will tonight lead an array of celebrated African musicians at the Independence Square in Accra to start the Ghana 2008 football tourney in a musical way. It has been dubbed the "Go Africa Concert".
The show is expected to draw both foreign and local football and music lovers across Africa who have arrived in the country for the 2008 MTN Africa Cup of Nations, Ghana 2008, which begins tomorrow.
Billed to perform alongside the Grammy award-winning band are the female trio from Uganda, Blu 3; Orentchy from Cote D’Ivore, King Nee from Togo, Nigeria’s 2 Face Idibia, Malaika from South Africa, Don Metok from Benin and a host of others.
Representing Ghana are the now most sought for artistes in the hip life industry, Batman Samini, Tic Tac, Ofori Amponsah and Kwaw Kesse among others.
The audience is assured of nothing but pure music of all genres which would be brewed with football actions to herald the opening match between the Ghana Black Stars and Guinea on Sunday afternoon at the Ohene Djan Stadium in Accra.
Malaika is expected to treat the fans to some Afro pop music while the multi-lingual Orentchy dish out some refreshing francophone and funky music with the Ghanaian artistes delivering some great hip life and highlife tunes.
According to the organisers, fans should count on the several artistes for their favourite songs as the artistes are really poised to deliver to make the 2008 tournament a memorable one in its history.
The "Go Africa Concert" has been put together by MTN in collaboration with other partners and powered by Charter House Productions.
Akufo-Addo Meets Artistes
By Stephen Kwabena Effah
Perhaps, for the first time, the crème de la crème in Ghana’s music and theatre industry have openly gave a resounding thumbs-up to a politician.
The meeting forms part of Mr Akufo- Addo’s strategy to reach out to every sector and group in the country with his all-inclusive gospel during his administration.
Attended by an array of musicians, actors and actresses, comedians, producers and engineers, it afforded him the opportunity to interact with them.
According to them, their decision is borne out of the fact that the candidate who is a great lover of music, has demonstrated his commitment to help the industry.
He said that musicians are ever ready to give Mr Akufo-Addo the necessary support whenever the need arise.
The other unions, including the Ghana Association of Phonographic Industry, Professional Musicians Association of Ghana and Ghana Concert Parties Union, all voiced their readiness to make Nana Addo’s ambition of leading the country become a reality in order for him to move the industry to another pedestal.
Earlier, Nana Addo assured all the players in the entertainment, art and culture industry of the necessary support needed to boost the growth of the industry when given the nod in the December polls.
He underscored the role of the industry to the country’s development and pledged that he would make it part of Ghana’s Development agenda, adding that over the years, the industry has helped in Ghana’s development, hence the need "to further give it a push to make it gain more recognition on the international market".
Saturday, 19 January 2008
Perhaps, for the first time, the crème de la crème in Ghana’s music and theatre industry have openly gave a resounding thumbs-up to a politician.This was when the 2008 presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, hosted them on Thursday.
At a ceremony to interact with the artistic industry, the industry’s players pledged their unflinching support and also to do everything possible and within their power to ensure his victory in the upcoming December polls.
The meeting forms part of Mr Akufo- Addo’s strategy to reach out to every sector and group in the country with his all-inclusive gospel during his administration.
Attended by an array of musicians, actors and actresses, comedians, producers and engineers, it afforded him the opportunity to interact with them.
According to them, their decision is borne out of the fact that the candidate who is a great lover of music, has demonstrated his commitment to help the industry.
Nana Kwame Ampadu, General Secretary of the Musicians Union of Ghana, said he was stunned by the fact that for the first time in the history of the industry, a presidential candidate has invited them to wine and dine together, adding, "we appreciate his interest in our industry".
"It’s amazing and it shows how much you love the industry and we will make sure you become president by all means. Anyone who plays down on the music industry does so at his own peril," he pointed out.
"It’s amazing and it shows how much you love the industry and we will make sure you become president by all means. Anyone who plays down on the music industry does so at his own peril," he pointed out.
He said that musicians are ever ready to give Mr Akufo-Addo the necessary support whenever the need arise.
David Dontoh, an actor, took the opportunity to congratulate Nana Addo on his election to lead the NPP party. He said the ceremony attests to the fact that politicians are beginning to realise the important role of the artistic industry to national development.
He assured Nana Addo of his colleague actors and actresses support of his government, and urged other political leaders to also show interest in the industry to ensure its growth.
The other unions, including the Ghana Association of Phonographic Industry, Professional Musicians Association of Ghana and Ghana Concert Parties Union, all voiced their readiness to make Nana Addo’s ambition of leading the country become a reality in order for him to move the industry to another pedestal.
Earlier, Nana Addo assured all the players in the entertainment, art and culture industry of the necessary support needed to boost the growth of the industry when given the nod in the December polls.
He underscored the role of the industry to the country’s development and pledged that he would make it part of Ghana’s Development agenda, adding that over the years, the industry has helped in Ghana’s development, hence the need "to further give it a push to make it gain more recognition on the international market".
Those in the industry needed not be poor, he said, since they have all it takes to create wealth for themselves and therefore. He urged them to put in their maximum best in order to be successful.
Those who attended included C.K Mann, Paapa Yankson, Kojo Antwi, Agya Koo Nimo, Mac Tonto,Amakye Dede, Ms.Grace Omaboe, Nana Amma McBrown, Teacher Africana, Paa George, Jewel Ackah, Orlando Julius, Tic Tac, A-Plus, Wutah, Praye, Ex-Doe and Comedian Bob Okala.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Meet Miss Ghana-Italy 2007
By Stephen Kwabena Effah
Saturday, 12 January 2008
When her friends gave her the title "Miss Ghana," at the time she was growing up in her locality in a city north of Italy, little did she know she would one day wear the prestigious crown of the title in that country.
But surprisingly, the prophesy of the friends of the 19-year-old Ghanaian Winifred Tawiah, student of Institute of Andrea Mante-gna, became a reality when she was adjudged Miss Ghana-Italy 2007 on October 27.
"I felt so excited when I was announced as the winner. I never expected to win," she told the TW in Accra on Wednesday after she paid a courtesy call on the Editor of the Ghanaian Times, Ms Ajoa Yeboah-Afari.
She was accompanied by Mrs. Nana Adjoa Awindor, Managing Director of Premier Productions Limited and Jane Awindor, of Irene and Jane fame.
Ms.Tawiah said beauty contests have been something she has always wished to participate in since "I want to exhibit my talent," but noted that she never thought of becoming a beauty queen that early.
"I know how to pull and entertain crowd. I’m really an amusing person," she said, giving an infectious smile. She recounted how her performance of the popular "hei Alhaji" song at the event excited the audience.
Ms Tawiah, who migrated from Ghana to join her mother and siblings in Italy at the tender age of three, is currently in the country for a week-long visit as part of her prize package.
The final year biochemistry student told the TW about her intention to settle in Ghana after pursuing a three- year university education in Italy since "I feel relaxed and walk freely here without fear of anything."
While in Ghana, she said, she will take the opportunity to explore the traditions and culture of the people of her beautiful home country because "I know nothing much about Ghana."
No wonder she said "I am from Kormantse in the Eastern Region" although it is in the Central Region, when speaking about her origins at the Miss Ghana-Italy event. The audience, she said, gave her a loud applause amidst shouts and did not realise she had made a mistake.
"It was not until I came home that I realised my mistake because my mother told me I have disgraced her since Kormantse is not in the Eastern Region but rather in the Central Region," she said with a laugh.
Like herself, she said that there are a lot more Ghanaian youth in Europe who do not know anything about their own country, a situation she said does not auger well for themselves and the country.
For this reason, she told the Times Weekend that, she is devoting her reign as Miss Ghana-Italy 2007 to educate the youth on the need to appreciate their country, its traditions, culture and people, saying "I want those out there to keep their culture."
Ms.Tawiah said the first and last time she visited Ghana was 10 years ago, indicating "I prefer living in Ghana because with a good job, one would live better here than in Europe."
Touching on beauty pageants, Ms.Tawiah who aspires to be a nurse, indicated that many parents do not want to allow their wards to participate in such pageants because of the perception that participants normally expose vital parts of their body.
Wearing a skimpy skirt or beach costumes on platforms of beauty contests or on the streets, she explained, does not make one an immoral person. She noted that beauty contests helps to uncover talents and provides opportunities, hence the need for parents to allow their wards to participate in them.
She said that she would prove to people that "beauty is about intelligence and a beautiful girl can do so many things".
Ms.Tawiah, who has been modeling in her area in Italy, told TW that she would also go into film acting as a part-time profession because she loves acting. Her hobbies are singing, dancing and acting.
Saturday, 12 January 2008
When her friends gave her the title "Miss Ghana," at the time she was growing up in her locality in a city north of Italy, little did she know she would one day wear the prestigious crown of the title in that country.But surprisingly, the prophesy of the friends of the 19-year-old Ghanaian Winifred Tawiah, student of Institute of Andrea Mante-gna, became a reality when she was adjudged Miss Ghana-Italy 2007 on October 27.
"I felt so excited when I was announced as the winner. I never expected to win," she told the TW in Accra on Wednesday after she paid a courtesy call on the Editor of the Ghanaian Times, Ms Ajoa Yeboah-Afari.
She was accompanied by Mrs. Nana Adjoa Awindor, Managing Director of Premier Productions Limited and Jane Awindor, of Irene and Jane fame.
Ms.Tawiah said beauty contests have been something she has always wished to participate in since "I want to exhibit my talent," but noted that she never thought of becoming a beauty queen that early.
"I know how to pull and entertain crowd. I’m really an amusing person," she said, giving an infectious smile. She recounted how her performance of the popular "hei Alhaji" song at the event excited the audience.
Ms Tawiah, who migrated from Ghana to join her mother and siblings in Italy at the tender age of three, is currently in the country for a week-long visit as part of her prize package.
The final year biochemistry student told the TW about her intention to settle in Ghana after pursuing a three- year university education in Italy since "I feel relaxed and walk freely here without fear of anything."
While in Ghana, she said, she will take the opportunity to explore the traditions and culture of the people of her beautiful home country because "I know nothing much about Ghana."
No wonder she said "I am from Kormantse in the Eastern Region" although it is in the Central Region, when speaking about her origins at the Miss Ghana-Italy event. The audience, she said, gave her a loud applause amidst shouts and did not realise she had made a mistake.
"It was not until I came home that I realised my mistake because my mother told me I have disgraced her since Kormantse is not in the Eastern Region but rather in the Central Region," she said with a laugh.
Like herself, she said that there are a lot more Ghanaian youth in Europe who do not know anything about their own country, a situation she said does not auger well for themselves and the country.
For this reason, she told the Times Weekend that, she is devoting her reign as Miss Ghana-Italy 2007 to educate the youth on the need to appreciate their country, its traditions, culture and people, saying "I want those out there to keep their culture."
Ms.Tawiah said the first and last time she visited Ghana was 10 years ago, indicating "I prefer living in Ghana because with a good job, one would live better here than in Europe."
Touching on beauty pageants, Ms.Tawiah who aspires to be a nurse, indicated that many parents do not want to allow their wards to participate in such pageants because of the perception that participants normally expose vital parts of their body.
Wearing a skimpy skirt or beach costumes on platforms of beauty contests or on the streets, she explained, does not make one an immoral person. She noted that beauty contests helps to uncover talents and provides opportunities, hence the need for parents to allow their wards to participate in them.
She said that she would prove to people that "beauty is about intelligence and a beautiful girl can do so many things".
Ms.Tawiah, who has been modeling in her area in Italy, told TW that she would also go into film acting as a part-time profession because she loves acting. Her hobbies are singing, dancing and acting.
(From Left)- Miss Ghana Italy ,Winifred,Nana Adjoa Awindor and Stephen Effah,journalist
CHANGE VOTING TIME - NCCE Tells EC
By Stephen Kwabena Effah
Saturday, 12 January 2008
WITH just 11 months to the country’s general elections, the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has suggested to the Electoral Commission to review the voting period to avoid late counting and collating of ballots and any malpractice.
It said the current voting period, which is between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. should be shifted to 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. to make room for counting of ballots and collating of results in day light.
"It is our belief that the incidence of threats to peace due to problems created in the counting and collating of election results in the night may be prevented," the commission said at a news briefing in Accra yesterday.
The briefing was aimed at reminding stakeholders of their respective roles in ensuring free, fair, transparent and peaceful elections in December.
Mrs. Augustina A.Akumanyi, Deputy Chairman of the NCCE in charge of programmes, said the EC must ensure that all temporary staff engaged to assist with poll duties are of "unquestionable character".
She said: "They must be well versed in the rules and regulations governing the elections".
Another concern in the elections is timely declaration of election results by the EC, Mrs Akumanyi said and added: "Disagreements over election results in African countries pose a serious challenge to political stability and constitutional development on the continent, with the latest being the Kenyan experience".
Mrs. Akumanyi said such socio-political instability in some instances has led to armed conflicts.It is important for Ghana to learn from such examples and ensure that the upcoming general election is free, fair, transparent and peaceful, she said.
She advised parliamentary candidates of the various political parties to use inspiring language and avoid inflammatory utterances in their campaigns.
Mrs Akumanyi also stressed the need for the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC), to assist the EC with ideas that go beyond partisan interests of political parties and proposed that the IPAC concept should be replicated in all the regions and districts to ensure that disagreements over the elections are nipped in the bud early.
She also spoke about the roles of the security agencies and the religious bodies in the success of the elections saying that the credibility of the elections would depend largely on the conduct of the security agencies before, during and after polling.
Religious bodies she said should also use their platforms to promote peace and encourage their congregations to exercise their franchise.
Saturday, 12 January 2008
WITH just 11 months to the country’s general elections, the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has suggested to the Electoral Commission to review the voting period to avoid late counting and collating of ballots and any malpractice.
It said the current voting period, which is between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. should be shifted to 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. to make room for counting of ballots and collating of results in day light.
"It is our belief that the incidence of threats to peace due to problems created in the counting and collating of election results in the night may be prevented," the commission said at a news briefing in Accra yesterday.
The briefing was aimed at reminding stakeholders of their respective roles in ensuring free, fair, transparent and peaceful elections in December.
Mrs. Augustina A.Akumanyi, Deputy Chairman of the NCCE in charge of programmes, said the EC must ensure that all temporary staff engaged to assist with poll duties are of "unquestionable character".
She said: "They must be well versed in the rules and regulations governing the elections".
Another concern in the elections is timely declaration of election results by the EC, Mrs Akumanyi said and added: "Disagreements over election results in African countries pose a serious challenge to political stability and constitutional development on the continent, with the latest being the Kenyan experience".
Mrs. Akumanyi said such socio-political instability in some instances has led to armed conflicts.It is important for Ghana to learn from such examples and ensure that the upcoming general election is free, fair, transparent and peaceful, she said.
She advised parliamentary candidates of the various political parties to use inspiring language and avoid inflammatory utterances in their campaigns.
Mrs Akumanyi also stressed the need for the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC), to assist the EC with ideas that go beyond partisan interests of political parties and proposed that the IPAC concept should be replicated in all the regions and districts to ensure that disagreements over the elections are nipped in the bud early.
She also spoke about the roles of the security agencies and the religious bodies in the success of the elections saying that the credibility of the elections would depend largely on the conduct of the security agencies before, during and after polling.
Religious bodies she said should also use their platforms to promote peace and encourage their congregations to exercise their franchise.
Give 2008 Presidential Candidates Bodyguards- NCCE Boss
By Stephen Kwabean Effah
The Chairman of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Laary Bimi, says the state should provide security personnel as bodyguards for all the presidential candidates for the 2008 general elections.
January 14,2008
The Chairman of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Laary Bimi, says the state should provide security personnel as bodyguards for all the presidential candidates for the 2008 general elections.The provision of bodyguards for the candidates, irrespective of their political parties, is paramount for their protection before and after the upcoming elections," he said, adding: "Presidential candidates so far nominated should be given equal protection by the state."
Mr. Bimi was speaking at a news briefing in answer to whether there is the need for the presidential candidates to be provided bodyguards by the state.
The conference, held in Accra on Friday by the NCCE, sought to remind the various stakeholders of their roles in ensuring free, fair, transparent and peaceful polls in December this year.
Mr Bimi argued that providing bodyguards for the candidates is appropriate in view of the recent assassination of Benazir Bhutto, former Pakistani Prime Minister, after a rally in Pakistan last December.
However, "before providing such bodyguards, it is important that the state consults the candidates, and there should not be any discrimination in the number of guards or motorcades to be provided each candidate.
"There shouldn't be a situation where a candidate is given a greater number of guards or motorcades than the other. They should be provided bodyguards with equal strength.He advised them to desist from wading into chieftaincy matters which may cause conflicts, saying, "there are institutions already set up to address such issues".
He noted that the country now has a plethora and mosaic of chieftaincy disputes, and as such, political leaders in their bid for votes should avoid issues that have to do with chieftaincy matters.
Touching on chiefs and politics, he said that there is nothing the NCCE can do to prevent chiefs from engaging in open politics, but said that the Constitution forbids chiefs to engage in open politics.
The Chairman advised political party leaders not to preempt or declare election results, saying "it is only the Chairman of the EC, who can declare the results of general elections in the country".
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
STRAY DOG CAUSES DEATHS ON MOTORWAY
By Stephen Kwabena Effah
Wednesday, 09 January 2008
AN attempt by a driver to save the life of a stray dog early yesterday morning, resulted in the death of the two people on board his vehicle and the injury of a seven-month-old baby.
Wednesday, 09 January 2008
AN attempt by a driver to save the life of a stray dog early yesterday morning, resulted in the death of the two people on board his vehicle and the injury of a seven-month-old baby.The accident which occurred at about 6 a.m. on the Tema motorway, involved three private cars whose occupants were going to work.
The cars, a black Opel Vectra with registration number GT 9981X, was travelling from Tema to Accra, while the other two cars, a Nissan Primera with registration number GT 62 X and another Opel a white Vectra GW8881 Q heading towards Tema from Accra.
The driver of the black Vectra was crossed by a dog at the Klagoon Underpass area of the motorway which he attempted to save but unfortunately hit it and lost control of the car, resulting in it somersaulting many times and skidding off into the other lane.
The two other cars that were travelling from Accra to Tema on seeing the black Vectra somersaulting, slowed down but were hit by the car and went off the road.
Briefing the Times, ASP Timothy Dassah, Unit Commander of the Ashaiman MTU, who confirmed the accident, said the three people in the Nissan Primera including a woman and her seven-month-old baby sustained injuries.
The baby is now in a critical condition and has been put on oxygen but the mother and the driver, together with the only passenger in the other white Vectra are responding to treatment at the Tema General Hospital.
ASP Dassah said the bodies of the two people who died on the spot have since been deposited at the Tema General Hospital morgue.
Legon Must Renew Itself - Prof. Kwapong
By Stephen Kwabena Effah
Wednesday, 09 January 2008
The first Ghanaian Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Professor Alexander Kwa-pong, has urged the university to carve out a new and appropriate niche, and renew itself as it celebrates its 60th anniversary.
The anniversary has the theme: "Legon-Charting a New Course". Activities for the anniversary include the re-launch of the university’s endowment fund, presidential debate, West Africa inter-university games and an international conference.
It will be climaxed in August, the month the university was chartered, with a special congregation to award honorary degrees.
Professor Kwa-pong noted that the higher education landscape in Ghana is now different from the early pioneering days, hence the need for the University of Ghana to re-examine its focus.
He said that he welcomes the complete overhaul and revamping of the university’s infrastructure and resources as recommended by the visitation panel to the university last month in its report.
He underscored the need to restore quality to the university as an academic institution by assuring quality to its faculty, teaching and research and by giving very high priority to expanding and enhancing graduate progra-mmes.
He also advised the university to reform "its fraught examination system".
Prof. Kwapong praised the university council and the Vice Chancellor for appointing the Visitation Panel which he described as timely and urged the authorities concerned to implement the well –thought out recommendations.
It is important to honour Ghanaian pioneers and all those who laid the solid
Mrs. Mary Chinery-Hesse, Chief Adviser to the President and a member of the university council, pledged the government’s commitment to implementing the recommendations, of the panel, saying "the government takes the report seriously".
Wednesday, 09 January 2008
The first Ghanaian Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Professor Alexander Kwa-pong, has urged the university to carve out a new and appropriate niche, and renew itself as it celebrates its 60th anniversary.He said that although the university is still the "Primus Inter Pares," (first among equals) and has made an indispensable contribution to the country’s development, it must adapt and change itself to conform to current trends.
Launching the anniversary in Accra yesterday, he said that it is important for the university to have a clearer appreciation and deeper understanding of what it has accomplished so far and what needs to be done in the immediate, medium and long term future to make it "a truly great century world university".
The anniversary has the theme: "Legon-Charting a New Course". Activities for the anniversary include the re-launch of the university’s endowment fund, presidential debate, West Africa inter-university games and an international conference.
It will be climaxed in August, the month the university was chartered, with a special congregation to award honorary degrees.
Professor Kwa-pong noted that the higher education landscape in Ghana is now different from the early pioneering days, hence the need for the University of Ghana to re-examine its focus.
He said that he welcomes the complete overhaul and revamping of the university’s infrastructure and resources as recommended by the visitation panel to the university last month in its report.
He underscored the need to restore quality to the university as an academic institution by assuring quality to its faculty, teaching and research and by giving very high priority to expanding and enhancing graduate progra-mmes.
He also advised the university to reform "its fraught examination system".
Prof. Kwapong praised the university council and the Vice Chancellor for appointing the Visitation Panel which he described as timely and urged the authorities concerned to implement the well –thought out recommendations.
It is important to honour Ghanaian pioneers and all those who laid the solid
foundation for the growth and development of the university into a great African university, he said.
Mrs. Mary Chinery-Hesse, Chief Adviser to the President and a member of the university council, pledged the government’s commitment to implementing the recommendations, of the panel, saying "the government takes the report seriously".
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