Monthly Archives: June 2024

News, Topstory

Ghana’s ‘Dumsor’ predates WAPCO’s gas supply challenges – Energy expert to Govt

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Energy expert Xatse Derick Emmanuel has disclosed that the intermittent supply of electricity in Ghana cannot be blamed on the challenges associated with the transportation of gas to power the country’s thermal plants.

This development comes after the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) jointly issued a statement to inform Ghanaians that there would be shortfalls in power generation for 3 weeks due to a maintenance works being carried by the West African Gas Pipeline Company (WAPCO).

As a result, the power producing company indicated that there would be power cuts, locally known as Dumsor, in the country for 3 weeks until the gas supply challenges are resolved.

Xatse Derick Emmanuel, a Research and Policy Analyst at the Institute For Energy Security (IES), in a statement debunked the position of the ECG.

The energy analyst said the ECG, since the beginning of this year, has not been able to meet the peak demand of Ghanaians hence the current power crisis has nothing to do with WAPCO’s challenges.

“Credible data available, representing total system power generation at peak periods (10 pm), shows that Ghana has been experiencing power generation deficits throughout this year, ” Xatse noted while pointing to data from the Energy Commission on thr country’s power sector since January 2024.

Below is his statement;

DUMSOR PREDATES WAPCO’S GAS SUPPLY CHALLENGES

Ghana has been experiencing DUMSOR long before the recent gas supply challenges announced by WAPCo.

Credible data available, representing total system power generation at peak periods (10 pm), shows that Ghana has been experiencing power generation deficits throughout this year.

This was evident even before WAPCo’s announcement, which is expected to further increase the generation deficits (more DUMSOR).

“As of December 26, 2023, Ghana’s system peak load stood at 3,618 MW, representing a 4.3% increase from the 2022 recorded peak demand. In 2024, system peak load is estimated to be 3,788
MW, reflecting a 4.7% increase from 2023”- Energy commission report 2024.
This means that, Ghanas peak demand is expected to be around 3788 MW.

Therefore, any power
generation below 3788 MW will result in DUMSOR.

Monthly averages at these time were:
January 2024 = 3162.45 MW, February 2024 = 3276.00 MW, March 2024 = 3154.73 MW, April 2024 = 3199.50 MW, May 2024 = 3161.29 MW, June 2024 = 3101.33 MW.

1. The system peak power generation represents power generated for both domestic usage and export.
2. The total demand peak also includes power demanded domestically and for export.
3. The average power generated at peak periods (10 pm) from January to June 4th, 2024, stands at 3188.12 MW. This figure is far below the peak demand for even 2023, recorded on December 26th, 2023, at 3618 MW, let alone meeting the peak demand projected at 3788 MW for 2024 based on the energy commissions report.
4. This means that from January to June 4th, 2024, Ghana has never been able to meet its peak demand where its power generated (supply) will meet the peak demand. There is a deficit in power generation between 429.88 MW and 599.88 MW when using the 2023 peak demand of 3618 MW or the projected peak demand of 3788 MW, respectively.
5. Therefore, a deficit in power generation of 600 MW is accounting for the DUMSOR. From January 2024 to June 4th, 2024, Ghana experiences DUMSOR of about 600 MW.
6. With the new development where WAPCo has announced a gas supply challenge, causing ECG and GRIDCo to issue a joint press release, the end effect is that Ghana will experience more DUMSOR, meaning there will be a deficit in power generation beyond 600 MW.
7. The other good news is that the thermal plants can operate on Light Crude Oil (LCO) or Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO). Apart from Sunon–Asogli Power (SAPP) and AMERI, which rely only on Natural Gas, the rest operate on either HFO, LCO, or LPG. Therefore, with proper financial capacity, Ghana should be able to generate enough power to meet its peak
demand. Ghana has an installed generation capacity of 5,194 MW, excluding embedded generation, which correlates to a dependable capacity of 4,756 MW. This means that Ghana
should be generating enough power to exceed its peak demand.
8. In conclusion, ECG and the government should not ascribe the DUMSOR to WAPCo’s gas supply challenges because we have already been generating power at a deficit of 600 MW even though WAPCo’s gas supply challenges will worsen the DUMSOR situation, but not when the majority of the thermal plants can operate on either HFO, LCO, or LPG in place of Natural Gas.

Xatse Derick Emmanuel
Research and Policy Analyst
Institute For Energy Security-IES

 

Source: Myxyzonline.com

News

Let Eid rekindle spirit of kindness, love for one another – Seidu Agongo

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Businessman and philanthropist Alhaji Seidu Agongo has appealed to Ghanaians to show more compassion and generosity to one another during the Eid-ul-Adha festival and beyond.

Alhaji Agongo, who is sponsoring thousands of people into school, through skills training and with shelter, food, and funds, said it was only in giving that human beings find true fulfillment in the worship of Allah, and the manifestation of their spiritual beliefs.

Speaking to the media to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Adha celebration, the founder of the collapsed Heritage Bank Limited said while giving should be an everyday thing, occasions like Sallah were meant to bring humanity closer to God as well as remind them of the need to share with each, however little.

Alhaji, therefore, expressed the hope that Muslims and Christians alike would use the occasion to preach and spread love, compassion, and any material gains they have been blessed with.

Economic crisis

The founder of the Class Media Group (CMG) said giving was particularly crucial this year, given the economic challenges that the country finds itself in.

With prices of basic items and utilities rising; eroding the already meager incomes of fellow citizens, Alhaji said underprivileged families will find it tough to celebrate Eid.

He said any support would mean more to such families as it could bring smiles to the faces of children and even parents.

The business mogul’s appeal comes when religious leaders are urging their followers to be conscious of the tough times in marking the occasion.

Last week, an Imam at the Ashaiman Newtown Junction Mosque, Malam Abdul Rakib Abubakar, advised Muslims to celebrate the Eid within budget, given the economic challenges.

Last year, Muslims in the Upper East Region reportedly resorted to chicken in place of the age-old sheep and cattle as protein to celebrate the occasion as a result of the economic crunch.

Alhaji Agongo said these were evidence that not many families would be able to afford the special meal associated with such occasions, hence the need for the few privileged to support the needy.

Wealth in diversity

Alhaji Agongo also admonished Ghanaians to cherish and nurture the diversity in society, shaped by our hereditary backgrounds, life experiences, inheritances, and the favours bestowed by God.

“Whether one follows a specific religion or a unique spiritual path, the essence of our existence is to live harmoniously, recognising the value each person brings to the world. Our diversity is not a barrier but a beautiful tapestry that weaves together a more vibrant society,” he said.

He said these differences, which he described as blessings, should be celebrated, not as points of division but as opportunities for growth and strength.

“In these trying times, let us remember that our strength lies in our unity. Let us embrace the differences that make us unique and cherish the commonalities that bind us.

“By doing so, we can create a world where mutual respect and understanding prevail, ensuring that the human race thrives in a spirit of coexistence and harmony,” Alhaji Agongo said.

Meanwhile, CMG comprises the Class 91.3 FM, Accra 100.5 FM, Ho 92.5 FM, CTV, and Dagbon 102.5 FM, among other media houses nationwide.

Alhaji Seidu Agongo pays the fees of hundreds of students at various levels of education and also constructed an outpatient block for the Child Emergency Unit of Korle Bu in 2018.

Last year, he donated cash to more than 1,150 aged and other vulnerable residents of Mepe in the Volta Region affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage disaster.

 

Source : classfmonline

News, Topstory

Impending BECE in limbo as WAEC laments financial constraints

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The West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) says the impending Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), scheduled for July 2024, faces possible cancellation due to severe funding challenges.

The council has expressed grave concerns about the government’s failure to release critical funds needed for the preparation and administration of the exams.

As the July 8, 2024 exam date approaches, time is running out for the purchase of necessary logistics.

The Director of Public Affairs at WAEC has highlighted the urgency of the situation, stressing the need for immediate financial support to avoid disruption of the exams.

Speaking on Joy FM’s, Midday News, the Director of Public Affairs at WAEC, John Kapi, said, “For BECE, we still have an outstanding payment of  ₵698,500, and then for the 2024 examination, we expect a total amount of ₵95,837,306 from the government.”

He noted that so far, the council has received ₵2,284,618, leaving an outstanding balance of ₵93,552,688 needed for the BECE.

He emphasised that the $2 million received is insufficient to facilitate the examination.

The Minority caucus on the Education Committee in parliament first raised the issue this week, calling for a payment schedule from the government.

Ranking Member on the Education Committee, Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, revealed that he proposed to the Chairman of the Education Committee that they call for a meeting with the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Education, and the national officer for WAEC to develop a roadmap for releasing funds.

He noted that this would enable WAEC to conduct the BECE and ensure they have the necessary financial resources to carry out their mandate.

“The BECE is coming on next month, and they need to prepare financially with resources to carry out their mandate. So, they need money.”

He added that the upcoming WASSCE examination in August also requires funding, hence the urgency of meeting with the various authorities to determine how money can be released to WAEC.

However, the Vice Chairman of the committee, Dr Prince Hamidu Armah, has downplayed the seriousness of the government’s indebtedness, arguing that such situations have been the status quo for the past decade.

He noted that in 2023, the government paid over ₵80 million towards the BECE, and in 2024, it has already paid ₵2.5 million plus an additional ₵6 million.

“Just to make the point that the government has demonstrated commitment towards making payments and ensuring that the examinations are conducted,”

The education and health sectors have been severely affected by persistent inflation, which stood at 23.1% as of May 2024, down from 25% in April 2024.

These sectors have reportedly seen a substantial decline recently, showing no signs of improvement.

Government Statistician Prof. Samuel Kobina Annim emphasised the urgent need for proactive and pragmatic measures from government institutions to address the situation.

 

Source: Myjoyonline.com

Busines, News

We’ll strike again if Govt doesn’t give us good offer – NIA staff

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The staff of the National Identification Authority (NIA) have cautioned the Government of Ghana to heed their concerns and improve upon their conditions of service to avert any future industrial action.

The staff are hopeful as they prepare to meet with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) on June 14 to discuss their conditions of service, following a three day strike action.

The meeting with FWSC comes after a 3-daystrike was halted the National Labour Commission to allow for negotiations to continue. The strike had significantly impacted NIA operations, leaving many individuals seeking services unable to access them.

According to Kwabena Adu Kyeremeh, the secretary of the NIA staff union, if today’s meeting does not yield satisfactory results, they may resort to another strike.

In an interview with Citi News, the secretary of the NIA staff, Kwabena Adu Kyeremeh, indicated that they might declare another strike if today’s meeting does not yield conclusive results.

“It is reasonable and fair compared to what our colleagues in other public or government institutions are receiving comparing their degrees or certificates that we are holding from masters level and first degree and diploma up to SSCE, and then the number of years of experience against what is happening in NIA, then we are going to be okay.

“We are expecting the government to come home with a very good offer. Then we will also accept it in the interest of Mother Ghana. And they [the aggrieved staff] have also indicated to the general public that if today, they are not successful, they will declare the strike on our behalf.”

 

Source: Myxyzonline.com

Crime, News

I met Godfred Dame twice in 2022 in the night – Jakpa tells court

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The third accused in the ongoing ambulance case, Richard Jakpa, has revealed to the court that he met with the Attorney General and Minister of Justice Godfred Yeboah Dame on two occasions in 2022, around 10:30pm.

Mr Jakpa made this disclosure during his testimony on Thursday, June 13, while being cross-examined by the legal team of Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, the first accused in the case.

Mr Jakpa stated that these meetings occurred at night, suggesting a level of secrecy and urgency in their discussions.

He described the interactions as significant, as they shaped his understanding of his role and the direction of the case.

According to Mr Jakpa, during these late night meetings, Mr Dame assured him that he was not the primary target of the prosecution.

He recounted that the Attorney General emphasised that the main focus of the case was on Dr Cassiel Ato Forson.

This assurance, Mr Jakpa claimed, influenced his decision to cooperate fully with the Attorney General’s office, including sharing crucial documents and information.

The 3rd accused added that he was led to believe he would be discharged at the submission of no case, which reinforced his willingness to assist.

The businessman further testified that as a result of these assurances, he was provided with the addendum to the main contract between the government of Ghana and Big Sea even before the prosecution had officially closed its case.

This document, he asserted, played a critical role in the proceedings and his involvement in the case.

The revelations made by Jakpa during his cross-examination have added a new dimension to the ongoing trial, highlighting the interactions between the accused and the Attorney General.

 

Source:Myjoyonline.com

 

News, Politics

Ashanti Region: NDC slams Bawumia for involving students in campaign tour

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The Ashanti Regional Office of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed worry about the involvement of students in party politics by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

The NDC criticised the Education Minister Yaw Osei Adutwum and the officials of the Ghana Education Service (GES) for allowing students to abandon class to attend Dr Bawumia’s ‘Youth Connect’ event held at Kumasi Jubilee Park as part of the NPP flagbearer’s campaign tour of the Ashanti region.

Some school authorities reportedly bussed some senior high school students to the event.

The NDC therefore urged parents to stand up and speak against the involvement of their wards in political activities at the expense of their education.

Moreover, the main opposition party condemned the act, stressing that the Minister of Education “cannot be absolved from blame.”

Baah Acheamfour, the Deputy Ashanti Regional Secretary of the NDC, addressing the press in Kumasi indicated that the NPP used the students to “create a crowd effect” for Dr Bawumia’s sinking popularity in the Ashanti Region.

“One major feature of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s tour was the bussing of students from various senior high schools to the Youth Connect programme at the Jubilee Park to create a crowd effect to show Bawumia’s sinking popularity in his own political stronghold.

“We find this development very worrying because it shows the desperate lengths the NPP is prepared to go to just to create an illusion of popularity. The law of the land does not allow partisan politics in our senior high schools.

“And so for the headmasters of these institutions to have released SHS students, some of whom are minors, to participate in this particular activity, at the time they are supposed to be in school is a cause to worry. And we all know that these students are preparing to write their WASSCE two or three months ahead of us.

“This indicates how low they are prepared to go to please their NPP collaborators. What is even more shocking is that all this happened right under the nose of the Minister of Education, Yaw Adutwum.”

“It is a shame that somebody like Dr. Yaw Adutwum who was brought in to introduce international best practices in our education sector will be the same person who is destroying our senior high schools with partisan politicisation.

“We are calling on parents to join forces with us to demand answers from CHASS and GES for exposing these wards to this needless political danger when school is supposed to be in session,” Mr Acheamfour stated.

Additionally, the NDC chastised Dr Bawumia for failing to fulfill a promise to reconstruct the burnt parts of the Kejetia Market, emphasising the neglect of the victims.

“Somewhere last year when Kejetia market was gutted by fire, Dr Bawumia visited them and promised to reconstruct the affected area in the shortest possible time.

“We wish to use this medium to ask him if that portion of the market has been fixed or is one of his usual awful and void promises given to Ghanaians,” the NDC stressed.

 

Source: 3news.com

Africa, Foreign

DR Congo boat disaster kills at least 80

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A shipwreck in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has killed more than 80 people, the Congolese president’s office said Wednesday.

“The President of the Republic is calling for an investigation into the true causes of this unfortunate incident, to prevent such a disaster from happening again in the future,” the office said in a statement.

The ship sank in the Kwa River, 70 kilometers away from the city of Mushie, in the province of Maï-Ndombe, according to the statement.

The president of the DRC, Félix Tshisekedi, expressed his condolences to the families of the victims.

Deadly shipwrecks are unfortunately frequent in the DRC as the country lacks road infrastructure and many people rely on boats to cross the many branches of the Congo River which runs alongside the country’s western border.

In October last year, at least 52 people were killed in the northwestern part of the country after a boat carrying more than 300 passengers capsized in the Congo River, authorities said at the time.

Another six people were killed months earlier in the DRC’s Lake Kivu after a boat carrying 150 villagers overturned.

The DRC only has one kilometer of paved road per 1,000 square kilometers compared to the 16 kilometers average for low-income countries, according to a report published by the World Bank.

Source: CNN

Sports

2024 Nike outdoors and USATF U20 Outdoor Championships scheduled for June 12 at Hayward Field

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The National Scholastic Athletics Foundation (NSAF) and its partners, Nike, USA Track & Field (USATF), TrackTown USA, and RunnerSpace, are proud to host the 2024 Nike Outdoor Nationals and USATF U20 Championships at Hayward Field at the University of Oregon, June 12 – 15, 2024.  This year, Nike Outdoor Nationals will run between the NCAA D1 Track and Field Championships and the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials – Track & Field Trials, making Hayward Field the epicenter of USA track and field for the month of June.

Nearly 5,000 athletes will compete for National Championships and World Championship berths during the event. The top-placing athletes in the U20 Championships can earn a spot on Team USA, which will compete in the World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima, Peru, from August 27 to 31, 2024.

“This partnership has been a dream of the NSAF. Bringing together the best high schoolers and the best U20 competition in one place will elevate the sport of track and field. I couldn’t be more proud to be working with USATF on bringing together two of the most essential track & field events on the calendar,” says Josh Rowe, NSAF CEO.

USA Track & Field CEO, Max Siegel, added: “We’re excited to see the next generation of athletes showcase their talents at the USATF U20 Championships and Nike Outdoor Nationals. These events represent the pinnacle of youth track and field competition, and we are proud to support the young athletes who embody the spirit of excellence, dedication, and sportsmanship. We extend our deepest gratitude to our partners at NSAF, Nike, TrackTown and RunnerSpace for bringing these events together.”

Highlights of the top entrants include the following:

  • Elizabeth Leachman (Champion, Boerne, TX) – US High School record holder in the 3,200m outdoors, 5,000m indoors and outdoors; 4 Time TX State Champion; 3 Time HS National Champion.
  • Vance Nilsson (Gilbert, AZ) – US High School record holder- 300mH; US #1 300mH; US #3 110mH.
  • Owen Powell (Mercer Island, WA) – US High School Record Holder -1,000m; US #1 800m.
  • Aleesa Samuel (Somerset Academy, Pembroke Pines, FL) – US #1 100mH; US #11 All Time- 100mH.
  • Jasmine Robinson (North Cobb, Kennesaw, GA) – 2nd Fastest US HS All Time – 300mH; US Sophomore and US age 16 Record Holder – 300mH.
  • JoJo Jourdan (Olympus, Holladay, UT) – US #6 HS All Time Mile (3:59.87); 3 Time UT State Champion; 2024 NXN Champion.
  • Zamarii Sanders (American Heritage, Plantation, FL) – US #1 in the 200m; 3rd fastest US Sophomore of all time.
  • Copper Lutkenhaus (Northwest, Justin, TX) – US #2 in the 800m; US Freshman and age 15 record holder in the 800m.
  • Jackson Cantwell (Nixa, MO) – US Sophomore record holder in the Shot Put and Discus; 16 years old; 6-07.75, 300lbs; 4 Star OT.
  • Jane Hedengren (Timpview, Provo, UT) – 9 Time Utah State Champion; US Sophomore record holder in the 2 mile.
  • Sophia Rodriguez (Mercer Island, Seattle, WA) – US Freshman Record Holder in the 3,000m indoors, 2 mile indoors and the 5,000m indoors; age 14 WR Holder in the 2 miles outdoors, 5,000m outdoors; 3 Time WA State Champion.
  • Ben Smith (Hortonville, WI) – US #6 HS All Time SP; 6 Time WI State Champion; 2023 HS National Champion.
  • Skylynn Townsend (Rock Hill, Frisco, TX) – 4 Time TX State Champion; 2 Time HS National Champion.
  • Northwestern (Miami, FL) – US #2 4 x 400m Relay; US #5 All Time- 4 x 400m Relay.
  • American Fork (UT) – US #1 in 4 x 800m Relay and 4 x 1 Mile Relay; US #6 All Time – 4 x 800m; US #2 All Time – 4 x 1 Mile.

A complete list of top entrants for each event can be found here.

Important Information

For complete coverage and information, please visit the Nike Outdoor Nationals website.

 

Source: Myxyzonline.com

Busines, News

World Bank approves $250m credit facility to improve Ghana’s energy sector

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The World Bank has approved a $250 million credit from the International Development Association (IDA) and a $10 million grant from the Energy Sector Management Assistance Programme for a 4-year Ghana Energy Sector Recovery Programme for Results (PforR).

The PforR will support Ghana’s Energy Sector Recovery Programme (ESRP) to improve the financial viability of electricity distribution and increase access to clean cooking solutions.

Electricity distribution losses are high in Ghana due to a low collection rate and below-cost recovery tariffs, undermining the operational and financial performance of energy utilities in the country. The Government of Ghana transfers about 2% of GDP annually to cover the energy sector’s financial shortfall.

“Through this important results-based financing, the World Bank is committed to supporting the recovery of Ghana’s energy sector and its financial sustainability. The operation aims to strengthen revenue collection and improve the quality of energy supply through investments in prepaid metering and in the commercial and meter management systems of distribution utilities,” said Robert Taliercio, World Bank Country Director for Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.

The PforR complements regulatory and policy reforms of the energy sector supported under the World Bank’s Development Policy Finance series (such as the IDA-supported First Resilient Recovery Development Policy Financing operation that was approved in January 2024) and the ongoing IMF Extended Credit Facility Programme for Ghana. The PforR focuses on improvements in institutional capacity and accountability and provides financing directly to energy sector utilities to implement capital expenditure programmes.

“The PforR aims to reduce the cost of electricity service provision by improving the economic dispatch of generation and by strengthening the commercial and operational performance of distribution utilities,” said Dhruva Sahai, Programme Leader for Infrastructure.

The Clean Cooking Component of the Programme will increase the access of Ghanaian households, schools, and businesses to Liquified Petroleum Gas for domestic and commercial use. The PforR will provide direct incentives to subsidize the cost of stoves and accessories – excluding cylinders – for first-time domestic users, commercial caterers, and second-cycle schools.

Through these efforts, the Programme aims to increase women’s access to clean cooking solutions, reduce time poverty, reduce health risks from smoke exposure from charcoal stoves, and improve women’s income-generating opportunities and employability.

The International Development Association (IDA), established in 1960, helps the world’s poorest countries by providing grants and low to zero-interest credits for projects and programmes that boost economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve poor people’s lives. IDA is one of the largest sources of assistance for the world’s 74 poorest countries, 39 of which are in Africa. Resources from IDA bring positive change to the 1.3 billion people who live in IDA countries. Since 1960, IDA has provided $458 billion to 114 countries. Annual commitments have averaged about $29 billion over the last three years (FY19-FY21), with about 70% going to Africa. Learn more online: IDA.worldbank.org. #IDAworks.

 

Source: Citi news

Africa, News

Kenyan Policeman shoots Magistrate in open court

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A Kenyan Magistrate has been shot and injured by a senior Police officer during an open court session in the capital, Nairobi.

The chief inspector opened fire on the Makadara Principal Magistrate, Monica Kivuti as soon as she had made a ruling.

The case allegedly involved the Policeman’s wife.

The officer is said to have been angered by the court’s decision to cancel bail to his wife.

The angry officer then fired shots at the Magistrate, injuring her.

Other officers in court responded immediately, with one of them shooting the offending Policeman and killing him.

In the process, three other officers were injured, a Police situation report noted.

The magistrate and the injured officers are being treated in hospital.

The judiciary said the Magistrate had “cancelled the bond for an accused person who had jumped bond and had failed to offer satisfactory explanations for jumping bond”.

“Immediately this decision was pronounced, a person shot at the Magistrate and injured her on the hip,” it said in a statement.

It noted initial reports that indicated “that the shooter is a police officer who is married to the suspect”.

Investigations into the incident are continuing.

The judiciary has said it will enhance security measures and has assured judicial staff and other court users of their safety and security.

“As the judiciary family, we wish our colleague a quick recovery. We also send our condolences to the family of the officer who lost his life in this unfortunate incident,” said Chief Registrar of the judiciary Winfridah Mokaya.

 

Busines, News, Politics

Concerned Drivers commend Mahama over decision to establish Drivers’ pension scheme

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Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana (C-DAG) says it welcomes former President, John Dramani Mahama’s idea of establishing a comprehensive pension scheme for drivers.

The driver group is elated and has promised to campaign and ensure that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) wins the upcoming December 7, general elections to enable Mr. Mahama to fulfil the promise.

The flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, engaged the leadership of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) on Friday, June 7 to hear their concerns and ideas.

Mahama acknowledged the pivotal role of the GPRTU and reiterated the NDC’s commitment to establish a comprehensive pension scheme, ensuring their social security in their retirement years.

He promised that the next NDC administration will modernize transport terminals and lorry parks through private partnership to enhance the transport sector.

The Leadership of Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana (C-DAG), reacting to this at a press conference on June 13, lauded the former President stressing that the pension scheme would transform the transportation sector and improve their living conditions.

Below is the full press statement by the concerned drivers.

PRESS STATEMENT BY CONCERNED DRIVERS ASSOCIATON ON JOHN MAHAMA’S PROMISES TO DRIVERS

Ladies and gentlemen of the press, we’d like to thank you for showing up to listen to our message.

We hope that this message shall be effectively trumpeted based on the trust we’ve developed for you as a result of the much attention you have always given us.

We the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana, invited you to this conference to discuss with you our resolve to accept and support some policy initiatives announced by the NDC flagbearer Former President John Dramani Mahama which will be implemented by his future government to help transform the transportation sector and also improve our living conditions.

Ladies and Gentlemen of the press, amidst our despair as a result of current conditions in the country, the NDC flagbearer John Mahama has mentioned some policies offering a gleaming hope to us which include the following.

1. Hire purchase vehicles: we trust this intervention to make vehicle ownership much easier for players in the transportation sector.
It means that drivers can possibly acquire their own vehicles and save us from the distress and pressure we go through to meet our sales demands. It is an undeniable fact that it has become almost impossible for us to even buy what we describe us ‘third hand’ Ghana used vehicles not to talk of acquiring home used or brand new ones. We therefore find this intervention to be a one that will bring so much relief.

2. Pension Scheme. Ladies and Gentlemen of the media, among the most impoverished group of workers in Ghana currently are drivers.
The stories of our old and retired comrades are even worse and not palatable for the ears. We can unequivocally say that it can never be contested that drivers have no future.
We live from hand to mouth and so we become subjects of penury the very day we step off the steering wheel.
Almost 99 percent of drivers go on retirement with an unplanned future. Isn’t it therefore good news that for once a possible president of the country has had us in thought and declared his intention to set up a pension scheme for us? At least it will help save many of us from the psychological battles we deal with when we forecast our future without hope resulting in road crashes.
All that every worker requires is a secure future.
3. Ultra Modern bus terminals: John Mahama’s promise to build ultramodern bus terminals across the country is positive news.
Presently, most of our terminals are in awful conditions and are even worse during the rainy season. There are no proper waiting areas for passengers, not to mention some for drivers where we can relax and take a nap ahead of our trip.
It is therefore on a good note that JIM is promising ultramodern bus terminals that will come with ancillary facilities.
4. Drivers’ Day: in recognition of hard work JM has also pledged to institute the Drivers’ Day which will be set aside to celebrate us for the gallant task we perform by moving the nation.
If there’s ever going to be a day where drivers would feel important it’ll definitely be on the day this promise will be honored and we trust JM to surely do that.

Ladies and Gentlemen, the much awaited hope is here. It’s really the first time a key political figure announced clearly to drivers policy interventions that would not only be beneficial to our sector but to also ensure our welfare.
While we commend the NDC’s flagbearer for exhibiting much concern about us we wish to caution him against turning his back on us after winning the elections.
We urge all stakeholders to join us in supporting John Mahama’s vision for a better Ghana.

Thank you.

Sgd.

Paa Willie- National Chairman
0242971025

Nana Wiredu- Deputy Secretary
0540377307

David Agboado- PRO
0541063682

 

News, Topstory

Court accepts Richard Jakpa’s audio recording as evidence in ambulance case

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Accra High Court, which is hearing the case against Minority Leader, Dr Caisel Ato Forson, and two others for causing financial loss to the state in the purchase of ambulances, has admitted the tape recording between Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame and businessman, Richard Jakpa into evidence.

The ruling on Thursday, June 13, followed an intense debate over the admissibility of the controversial recording, which has sparked widespread public and media interest.

The audio, which surfaced online last month, captures conversations between the Attorney General and Japka discussing sensitive legal matters, but the office of the Attorney General rejected the relevance of the audio to the main trial.

Critics argue that the content of the recording could have far-reaching implications for the ongoing legal proceedings and the integrity of the justice system.

The presiding judge, Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe ruled that the audio would be considered valid evidence, emphasizing that it goes to the root of the motives behind the prosecution’s case, as averred by A1 in his application for a mistrial.

“This recording provides crucial insights into the case,” the judge emphasized, adding that she would attach the necessary weight to the evidence when delivering the final judgment.

The Attorney General’s office, alongside the 3rd accused, Richard Japka, has been under the spotlight since the leak.

Critics and supporters alike have debated the legality and ethical implications of the audio’s content and its potential impact on current affairs. The decision by the High Court to admit this evidence marks a pivotal moment in the case, potentially influencing its outcome.

The Attorney General’s office has yet to release an official statement regarding the High Court’s decision. However, sources close to the office indicate that there will be a formal response addressing the implications of this new development.

 

Source: Myxyzonline.com