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  • 26 Arrested for Firing Toy Guns in Public: A Wake-Up Call for Public Safety

    26 Arrested for Firing Toy Guns in Public: A Wake-Up Call for Public Safety

    In a surprising turn of events, 26 individuals were arrested across Ghana for discharging toy guns in public spaces, triggering widespread panic. The Ghana Police Service conducted the arrests in several major cities, including Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi.

    According to eyewitnesses, the group of people was spotted firing what appeared to be toy guns in busy public areas. These toy guns, however, closely resembled real firearms, and some even emitted flashing lights and sound effects, making them seem even more realistic. This led to a significant amount of fear and confusion among bystanders, many of whom were unsure whether the guns were real or not.

    The Ghana Police Service has condemned the actions of the individuals involved, emphasizing that discharging toy guns in public spaces is illegal and can cause unnecessary distress. In a public statement, the police reiterated that such behavior is a violation of the law and warned that it could lead to serious consequences, including arrest and legal prosecution.

    The 26 individuals face charges of public disturbance and breach of the peace under Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act. If convicted, they could be subjected to fines, imprisonment, or both. The arrest has sparked a debate on social media, with some citizens arguing that the police’s response was an overreaction, while others believe it highlights the need for stricter regulations on the sale and use of toy guns in the country.

    This incident has also raised concerns about public safety. With the realistic appearance of some toy guns, it becomes difficult for the general public and law enforcement to distinguish between a toy and a real firearm. This confusion can contribute to fear, panic, and in extreme cases, even dangerous confrontations.

    The Ghana Police Service issued a statement reminding the public that firing toy guns in public places is a violation of the Criminal Offences Act. They specifically referenced Section 207, which addresses offensive conduct that disrupts the peace, and warned the youth to refrain from such acts. The police stressed that they are committed to ensuring that peace and order are maintained across the country.

    “We urge the public, especially the youth, to desist from engaging in actions that can jeopardize public safety. Discharging toy guns in public is not a harmless act; it can lead to misunderstandings and potentially tragic outcomes,” the statement read.

    This incident serves as an important reminder about the need for responsible behavior in public spaces. While toy guns may seem innocent, they can cause significant distress and confusion, especially when they resemble real weapons. As such, it is vital for individuals to be mindful of the potential consequences of their actions and to respect the laws that govern public conduct.

  • GRIDCo and ECG Announce Three-Week Power Interruption

    GRIDCo and ECG Announce Three-Week Power Interruption

    The Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) have declared a three-week interruption in power supply due to a reduction in gas supply from Nigeria. The West Africa Gas Pipeline Company (WAPCo) attributed this reduction to maintenance work being conducted by a Nigerian gas supplier.

    • Duration and Consequences

    The maintenance, which is anticipated to last for three weeks, has led to a decline in Ghana’s overall power generation capacity. As a result, load management measures may be necessary during this period.

    • Reassurance to Consumers

    GRIDCo and ECG are actively collaborating with other stakeholders in the power sector to optimize available resources and minimize the impact on consumers. They have expressed their apologies for the inconvenience caused.

    Below is the official statement from GRIDCo and ECG:

    The Ghana Grid Company LTD. (GRIDCo) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) wish to inform the public that, due to a reduction in gas supply from Nigeria since Wednesday, 12th June 2024, some areas across the country have experienced interruptions in power supply.

    The West Africa Gas Pipeline Company (WAPCo) has explained in a statement that the reduction in gas supply is due to maintenance works being undertaken by a gas supplier in Nigeria, which is projected to last three weeks.

    The maintenance has caused a reduction in overall power generation capacity in Ghana, which could result in load management over the period of the work.

    GRIDCo and ECG, however, wish to assure the public that we are collaborating with other stakeholders in the power value chain to optimize available resources and ensure minimal impact of the reduction in gas supply on consumers.

    GRIDCo and ECG sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused.

    JOINTLY ISSUED BY:

    GRIDCo and ECG

    — ENDS —

  • Passport application fees skyrocketing, with the standard fee rising by 400%

    Passport application fees skyrocketing, with the standard fee rising by 400%

    The Foreign Affairs Ministry has announced a major increase in the fees associated with applying for a passport as of right now.

    The cost of the 48-page booklet will now be GH¢644, while the 32-page booklet under the standard service will now cost GH¢500.

    The fees have been modified for those who choose expedited service. The 48-page booklet will cost GH¢800 for the expedited service, and the 32-page booklet will now cost GH¢700.

    Following the sector minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey’s December 2018 recommendation for a review to the Parliament’s Committee on Subsidiary Legislation, the decision was made to increase the application fees for passports.

    The purpose of this action is to allow the ministry to make up for losses that were sustained during the passport booklet printing process.

    Speaking to reporters, Minister Botchwey underlined that, considering the current state of the economy, Ghanaians must pay reasonable fees for passports. She underlined that the government had to subsidise each passport by GH¢300 because the previous fee of GH¢100 did not sufficiently cover the costs of production.

    “It is time for Ghanaians to pay realistic prices for passports they acquire to travel beginning next year. The current situation is not sustainable for the state to continue subsidizing passports,” she stated

    The ministry’s efforts to maintain financial sustainability while offering citizens’ essential services are reflected in the adjustment to passport application fees.

  • NRSA Reports: 369 people died in 2,260 traffic accidents in the first 2 months of 2024

    NRSA Reports: 369 people died in 2,260 traffic accidents in the first 2 months of 2024

    Ghana has seen a startling increase in traffic accidents in the first two months of 2024, with 2,260 crashes reported nationwide.

    This concerning figure underscores the urgent need for improved road safety measures as it has led to the tragic deaths of 369 people, 2,552 injuries, and 381 pedestrian knockdowns involving 3,910 vehicles.

    The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) collected the data, which highlights Ghana’s ongoing struggles to reduce the deadly number of traffic accidents. Despite continuous efforts to enforce traffic laws and upgrade road infrastructure, the high number of crashes and fatalities is still a cause for concern.

    The majority of traffic accidents, according to the NRSA, were caused by careless driving, speeding, and mechanical issues with cars. These elements have led to an increase in accidents and the ensuing death toll, which has been exacerbated by bad road conditions and insufficient safety precautions.

    In response to these alarming statistics, Ing. David Osafo Adonteng stressed during the launch of the 2024 Road Safety Easter Campaign that the numbers indicate a 0.49% increase in crashes, a 1.37% increase in vehicles involved, and a 2.0% increase in persons injured.

    Notably, compared to the first two months of 2023, the number of fatalities rose by 11.82%.

    To increase awareness among drivers, they have stressed the significance of enforcing traffic laws strictly, improving driver education programmes, and launching publicity campaigns.

    With the goal of lowering traffic accidents and fatalities, the NRSA has reaffirmed its commitment to working with pertinent parties to develop comprehensive strategies.

  • Ghana Police dispute Bongo Ideas’ arrest | Details

    Ghana Police dispute Bongo Ideas’ arrest | Details

    The Ghana Police Service has denied arresting notorious blogger Albert Nat Hyde, also known as BongoIdeas.

    Following reports that the contentious social media sensation was detained by security personnel on Thursday, March 14, this has happened.

    The Ghana Police Service said in a statement released on Friday, March 15, that, in contrast to rumours that he was in the hands of law enforcement, Bongo Ideas was at home, according to their checks with his family.

    “The attention of the Ghana Police Service has been drawn to social media reports that one Albert Nat Hyde, also known as BongoIdeas, has been arrested by the Police.

    “The Ghana Police Service has not arrested the said individual.

    “The Police have contacted a relative who has confirmed that BongoIdeas is at home,” the Ghana Police Service’s statement read.

    Amidst national internet restrictions, Ghanaians have been expressing a range of emotions on social media following the blogger’s alleged arrest.

  • Vodafone Ghana officially transitions to Telecel

    Vodafone Ghana officially transitions to Telecel

    In a significant development within the telecommunications sector, Vodafone Ghana has officially transitioned to Telecel Ghana, marking a strategic move to expand economic access to communication services across the country.

    Telecel Ghana has now assumed control over various operations previously managed by Vodafone, including fixed telephone lines, internet services, voice and data services, as well as cash transfer and other business services.

    This transition follows the acquisition of a 70 per cent majority stake in Vodafone Ghana by Telecel Group.

    During the official rebranding ceremony, the CEO of Telecel Ghana, Patricia Obo-Nai, emphasized the commitment to innovation and digital inclusion on the newly unveiled Telecel network.

    Mrs Obo-Nai assured customers of a transformative experience on the Telecel platform, promising enhanced service delivery and a focus on mobile financial solutions.

    Reflecting on the transition process, Obo-Nai highlighted the one year of preparation following the strategic acquisition of Vodafone Ghana shares by Telecel Group.

    She noted the deliberate approach taken to unveil the Telecel brand starting with internal stakeholders and progressing to key external partners and customers, culminating in a public launch event at Labadi Beach Hotel.

    Telecel Ghana’s rebranding efforts include the introduction of the Telecel Play app, aimed at delivering a range of digital innovations and mobile financial services to customers.

    Mrs Obo-Nai emphasized the company’s presence in all 16 regions of Ghana, with plans to engage and showcase the new Telecel brand offerings to a wider audience in the coming days.

    With the unveiling of Telecel Ghana, customers, partners, and stakeholders can expect a new era of communication services characterized by enhanced digital experiences and a customer-centric approach.

    “So, in February 2023, Vodafone Ghana ended its work in Ghana. So, we signed a deal with Telecel Group to take over the 70% shares of Vodafone Group in Ghana Telecom. It has been one year of transition. And so, from yesterday, we ended the relationship with the Vodafone brand and we unveiled the Telecel brand. We started with our employees in the morning at the conference centre, so they will see it first.

    “We have announced our brand promise that they are going to see an experience that is very different in our network, in the way we deliver service to our customers, and also, importantly, the mobile financial services.

    “There will be a lot of digital innovations that will come up. And so, we announced our app called Telecel Play which everybody should download. And over the period, you begin to see the changes that will happen, especially in the financial services. So we are available in all 60 regions, and we’ll move to the regions to show everybody what the new Telecel brand has to offer.”

    ………………………….

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  • Ghana Month: Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s life from jail to presidency

    Ghana Month: Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s life from jail to presidency

    As the month of March falls within Ghana’s month of independence from colonial rule, it is also known as Ghana Month, a time to celebrate Ghana’s culture and other historical occurrences that have given rise to the country.

    Primary goals of the campaign are to promote and celebrate the nation’s rich cultural legacy and indigenous goods and services.

    In honour of this year’s celebration, let’s pay attention to the contributions made by each of the “Big Six,” whose combined efforts resulted in the declaration of independence from colonial rule on March 6, 1957.

    Among The Big 6 are:
    ▪️Kwame Nkrumah
    ▪️Ako Adjei
    ▪️Edward Akufo-Addo
    ▪️Joseph Boakye Danquah
    ▪️Emmanuel Obetsebi Lamptey
    ▪️William Ofori Atta

    The Big Six

    Brief Profile of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

    Prominent Ghanaian statesman, nationalist leader, and pan-Africanist Dr. Kwame Nkrumah (1909–1972) was instrumental in the continent’s liberation and founding of the Republic of Ghana. Nkrumah was born in September 1909 in Nkroful, Gold Coast (now Ghana). His life story illustrates his steadfast dedication to the principles of African unification, independence, and self-determination.

    Early life and education:
    Nkrumah came from a lowly background. His parents were retail traders and goldsmiths.

    His early education at a Half Assini Roman Catholic elementary school set the stage for a lifetime interest in learning and intellectual endeavours.

    Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah with Fathia

    Following his graduation in 1930 from Achimota College, Nkrumah began working as a teacher, first in Elmina and Axim and then at a seminary.

    Political awakening:
    Nkrumah made the decision to continue his education in the United States due to his growing interest in politics.

    He enrolled at Pennsylvania’s Lincoln University in 1935 and studied the writings of Karl Marx and Vladimir Lenin, delving into the literature of socialism.

    His devotion to nationalist ideals was further strengthened by his exposure to the ideas of Marcus Garvey, a well-known Black American leader of the 1920s.

    Political activism and Pan-African leadership:

    Nkrumah actively participated in political activity during his stay in the United States. After organising the African Students’ Organisation of the United States and Canada, he was elected as its president.

    His commitment to the larger cause of African liberation was demonstrated in 1945 when he organised the 5th Pan-African Congress in Manchester after returning to England.

    Leadership in Ghana’s independence movement:

    After twelve years away, Nkrumah returned to the Gold Coast in 1947 and took the lead in the campaign for independence.

    In 1949, he started the Convention Peoples’ Party (CPP) after first working as the general secretary of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC).

    Widespread support resulted from the CPP’s pledge to immediate self-government striking a chord with the public.

    First Prime Minister and President of Ghana:

    Nkrumah served as Ghana’s first prime minister when the country gained independence from British rule in 1957 as a result of a string of political demonstrations and actions.

    He led an effective campaign in 1960 to make Ghana a republic, and a new constitution gave him broad legislative and executive authority when he took office as president.

    First cabinet of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah

    First cabinet of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah
    Challenges and economic policies:
    Nkrumah’s development of an increasingly authoritarian leadership style coincided with the implementation of large-scale, frequently expensive development projects.

    Economic challenges, a rising foreign debt, and the abandonment of the Second Development Plan in 1961 led to labor unrest and a general strike.

    One-party state and ouster:
    In 1964, Ghana officially became a one-party state with Nkrumah as its life president. However, internal strife, corruption, and economic woes continued to escalate.

    During Nkrumah’s absence in Beijing in 1966, a military coup seized power in Ghana, marking the end of his political reign.

    Legacy:
    Kwame Nkrumah’s legacy endures as a symbol of African nationalism, anti-colonialism, and pan-Africanism.

    Despite the challenges and controversies of his political career, he remains an influential figure in Ghanaian and African history.

    Generations of leaders dedicated to the advancement and independence of the continent are still motivated by his vision of an independent and united Africa.

    Credit// Pulse Ghana

  • Parliament passes the anti-LGBTQI bill

    Parliament passes the anti-LGBTQI bill

    The Ghanaian Parliament enacted the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which is also referred to as the anti-LGBTQ bill.

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin
    The bill was ultimately approved by lawmakers after all possible stages of consideration were completed, according to a report by Citi FM in Accra.

    The Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) Board Chair, Professor Audrey Gadzekpo, urged President Akufo-Addo to veto the bill the day before it was passed by Parliament.

    Professor Gadzekpo contended that the bill infringes upon fundamental human rights guaranteed by the Constitution, such as the rights to equality, nondiscrimination, dignity, academic freedom, freedom of speech and association, and participation in procession.

    Prof. Gadzekpo stressed that protecting rights and freedoms is essential to constitutional democracy during a press conference on human rights and a rights-based strategy for assisting sexual minorities in Ghana.

    She emphasised the importance of the matter for all Ghanaians and cautioned that changing these rights could imperil the country’s democratic values.

    In response to concerns about media freedom, CDD stated that the bill would restrict the freedom of expression of journalists and social media users by penalising them for covering LGBTQI+ issues. In addition, they denounced the bill for going against Article 108 of the 1992 Constitution, which forbids private member’s bills that put money into the public coffers.

    The Human Rights Coalition and the “Big 18” pushed Parliament to reject the Anti-LGBTQI Bill, citing the significance of protecting the rights of all people. They cautioned that if the bill were to pass, it would violate both national and international human rights laws and jeopardise the media’s standing in society.

    The bill outlaws LGBT advocacy, funding, and promotion and makes them illegal.

    Those found guilty of the act could face a sentence of six months to three years in prison, while those who encourage and fund it could face a sentence of three to five years in prison.

  • Supreme Court dismisses Anas’ defamation lawsuit against Kennedy Agyapong

    Supreme Court dismisses Anas’ defamation lawsuit against Kennedy Agyapong

    The Supreme Court has denied the application for certiorari that investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas filed against Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central.

    The previous High Court decision was maintained by the five-member panel, which was presided over by Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.

    Six years ago, an Accra High Court dismissed Anas Aremeyaw Anas’s GHC25 million defamation lawsuit against Kennedy Agyapong and fined the journalist GHC50,000.

    On Wednesday, February 28, the Supreme Court dismissed the case by a majority vote.

    Legal action was taken in 2018 after Anas claimed the legislator had defamed him.

    Anas begged the court to punish Agyapong with damages and to force him to clear his record. However, Anas Aremeyaw Anas was unable to provide evidence that Ken Agyapong had defamed him by airing the documentary, according to the High Court, which was presided over by Justice Eric Baah.

    The documentary in question, according to the court, rather revealed dubious transactions that Anas and his associates were engaged in.

    The court stated in a lengthy ruling that Agyapong had presented enough evidence to demonstrate that the Anas had solicited funds from individuals connected to the evidence he had collected through his investigations.

    It further stated that the evidence demonstrated that individuals who could afford the amounts of money demanded by Anas and his associates were excluded from the publically viewed videos.

  • ECOWAS lifts economic, travel sanctions on Niger, others

    ECOWAS lifts economic, travel sanctions on Niger, others

    The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has lifted sanctions imposed on the Niger Republic, Mali, Burkina Faso, and the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, member states that are ruled by the military, according to The Cable report.

    The ECOWAS officials said on Saturday [Feb. 24], that the decision was based on humanitarian concerns, particularly given the Lent season and the approaching month of Ramadan.

    The West African regional bloc has invited all four countries to an imminent meeting.

    The bloc has eased the sanctions it placed on Niger after the military takeover last year. The move forms part of a renewed drive for diplomacy following a series of political crises in the area in recent months.

    “ECOWAS lifts economic sanctions, border closures, commercial flights and overflights of the country with immediate effect,” the West African regional bloc posted on X.

    A no-fly zone and border closures were among the sanctions being lifted “with immediate effect,” the president of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Alieu Touray, said on Saturday, Aljazeera reported.

    The lifting of the sanctions is “on purely humanitarian grounds” to ease the suffering caused as a result, Touray told reporters after the bloc’s summit in the Nigerian capital, Abuja.

    The summit aimed to address existential threats facing the region as well as implore three military-led nations that have quit the bloc—Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso—to rescind their decision.

    Following recent coups, all three member states exited the bloc.

    Military rulers of Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso announce withdrawal from ECOWAS
    ECOWAS chairman and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu said in his opening address that the bloc “must re-examine our current approach to the quest for constitutional order in four of our Member States”, referring to the three suspended countries, as well as Guinea, which is also military-led.

    Bola Tinubu, Nigerian & ECOWAS president

    Tinubu urged Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso to “reconsider the decision” and said they should “not perceive our organisation as the enemy.”

    Niger’s President Bazoum was toppled in a military coup in July, causing ECOWAS to restrict trade and impose sanctions on the country.

    Reports suggest he is still imprisoned at Niamey’s Presidential Palace. On the eve of the conference, his lawyers petitioned ECOWAS to demand his release.

    Earlier this week, ECOWAS co-founder and former Nigerian military leader General Yakubu Gowon reportedly called for the body to lift “all sanctions that have been imposed on Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali and Niger”.

    Source // 3news.com