BNI Poll Is A Propaganda Poll

Accra, (Crusading Guide) -- One of the aspirants in the race for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearership slot, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye has rubbished a purported nation-wide poll conducted by the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) on the popularity of the party’s flagbearer aspirants.

The Political Science Professor and Member of Parliament (MP) for Dome-Kwabenya, who has never been favoured by any of these polls has charged at their authenticity describing them as “propaganda polls”.

Meanwhile, yesterday’s edition of the Ghanaian Observer newspaper published the reports of the said poll which placed the Professor at the thirteenth place.

Obviously not satisfied with the results, the NPP guru said on Citi FM, an Accra-based radio station’s morning show programme that “I doubt the poll and we should not rely on propaganda polls”.

He continued that it was also too early for such predictions since the congress itself was slated for December.

Confident about his chances in the race, Prof. Oquaye who has in recent times been in the media highlighting his vision for the party and the country, said “I know am winning this race, because of my message and pedigree”.

When asked if he had the necessary criteria set out for the one who should lead the party, he answered that “yes the party needs a committed person, a candidate who can unite the party, win floating votes over and have the capacity to unite the party”.

He continued to explain that a candidate’s ability to unite the party was very important adding that “guided by lessons of history in the 1979 election if we had united we would have won against the PNP”.

The presidential hopeful went on to advise delegates to vote for a candidate who had all these qualities as well as a candidate who would not only be articulate, but has the ability to implement the party’s vision.

Prof. Oquaye was full of praise for Ghana’s first President Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah for his vision for the country but stated that the forebears of his party also had a role to play in Ghana’s attainment of independence in 1957.

Touching on his vision for the country, the presidential hopeful stressed the need to restore dignity and professionalism in the military.

This he said, he would commence with recruitment and good training programmes, adding that “there should be strict adherence to recruitment, you don’t pressurize the military to bring in bad nuts”.

Still on his plans for the military, the flagbearer aspirant said promotion and conditions of service were also major requirements in the improvement of the military.

According to the political scientist, issues of release and resettlement in the military were some of the main ingredients of coups d’etat in Africa.

“When Soldiers are released they must fit into civilian life; they must be brought into established institutions”, he suggested.

Prof. Oquaye promised that when voted into power, he would introduce a policy known as the Systematic Adjustment to Civilian Life, which he said was done in other countries to help soldiers to retire gently and comfortably into civilian life.

He also reiterated his corn revolution vision for the country, saying that the corn plant can be used to change the fortunes of the country.

Source:
Crusading Guide

 Govt Pledges Assistance for Disaster Victims

Sandema/Garu Tempane (UE), September 01, GNA - A high-powered delegation from the Ministries of Interior and Defence on Friday undertook a fact-finding visit to the flood-hit areas in the Upper East Region to assess the extent of damage caused by the recent heavy rains, and to make a recommendation to Government for relief aid for the victims.

The rains have rendered a lot of people homeless, some of whom are being accommodated in classrooms and Community Centers, while others are putting up with relatives.

The official death toll in the disaster has been put at six people. Farms and farm produce have also been destroyed and properties running into several millions of cedis also destroyed.

Many roads were destroyed, making travelling and economic activities rather difficult.

The team, led by the Interior Minister, Mr. Kwamena Bartels, also included the Minister of Defence, Mr. Albert Kan-Dapaah, the Co-coordinator of the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), Mr. George Isaac Amo, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Patrick Acheampong.

Mr. Bartels earlier told the Regional Minister, Mr. Alhassan Samari, that the visiting team was tasked by President John Agyekum Kufuor to undertake a critical assessment of the damage caused by the recent heavy rains that hit the region and to make appropriate recommendation to Government on how to assist the flood victims.

He emphasized that the President and the Government were much concerned about the trauma of the victims and would do everything possible to assist them.

"President Kofour is emotionally touched by the incident, and that is why he immediately dispatched this high powered delegation to do critical analysis and to determine how to assist the affected communities," he stated.

The National Coordinator of NADMO admonished people not to build on waterways since they stood the danger of being destroyed by rains and indicated that most of the houses that were being affected by floods were constructed on waterways.

He announced that a consignment of relief items had already been dispatched and would soon arrive in the region to be distributed among the victims, while other forms of support would follow up.

"Government would endeavour to provide you with a reasonable amount of relief items to support you and your families", Mr. Amo said.

Some of the affected areas visited included Sandema, Kulungugu, Garu- Tempane, and the Tamne-Woriyanga bridge. The Regional Minister and his Deputy, Mrs. Agnes Chegabatia, and other Regional Heads of Departments accompanied the visiting delegation to the affected areas.

Meanwhile, many mud houses are still collapsing as the rains continue to fall throughout the Region.

Source:
GNA

 Holgate's anti-malaria expedition arrives in Ghana


Aflao, (V/R), Sept. 01, GNA- Mr. Kingsley Holgate, a South African travelling through Africa with his family by road to give renewed impetus to the fight against malaria arrived in Ghana, at Aflao from the Republic of Togo on Friday.

Mr. Joseph Nayan, Deputy Volta Regional Minister and Mr. Justice Cudjoe, Ketu District Chief Executive (DCE) met him at the border. From the border the Ghanaian officials led the explorers' retinue in three Land Rovers to the palace of Togbe Amenya Fiti, Paramount Chief of the Aflao Traditional Area where scores of pregnant women waited for gifts of treated mosquito nets from the Holgate team. Mr Holgate, whose journey started four months ago from Cape Town in South Africa, would traverse 33 African States. Already the team had travelled 16,000 kilometres through nine countries before arriving in Ghana.

He told the gathering of pregnant women, traditional rulers and government officials that his mission was to help sustain the fight against malaria, which kills two babies every minute worldwide. Mr Holgate said the gift of nets, though "only drops in the ocean" would help highlight the war against malaria. He said human rights activists; traditional rulers and political luminaries such as ex-President Nelson Mandela of South Africa endorsed his mission.

Ms Josephine Taylor, Corporate, Social Responsibility and Public Relations Manager of British Airways, which with Land Rover are supporting Holgate's expedition, said the journey had already registered positive impact in malaria control and awareness along the route. She said British Airways was supporting with logistics and cash donated by sympathizers through its website appeal dubbed: "One Net One Life".

Ms. Taylor said staff of the Airways along the route of the expedition was available to herald and guide the team. Mr. Nayan said the expedition was a "laudable and benevolent assistance that will not be forgotten," while Togbe Fiti said it had come to help his people against the scourge of malaria.

Mr. Cudjoe told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that the prevalence of malaria in the area was being tackled by improving sanitary conditions. He said drains were being constructed to improve sewage disposal in towns and villages in the highly populated district. The team would give educational materials and teaching aids to selected schools and provide eye care services at health facilities along its route.

Source:
GNA

 Police arrest "419" Shark Liver Oil dealer.


Kumasi, Sept 1, GNA - The Kumasi Police has arrested one Frank Opoku, a trader in Accra who nearly duped Hajia Fati Alhassan, a Kumasi businesswoman of 60 million cedis for the purchase of 12 bottles of "Shark Liver Oil" a fake mixture.

The Ashanti Regional Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Frank Adu-Poku, briefing newsmen in Kumasi on Friday, said the suspect was in Police custody and would be put before Court after investigations.

He said Hajia Fati received a foreign telephone call supposed to have come from one Sark, she knew in London on Tuesday, August 21. According to the Police Commander, the caller told the complainant that some Europeans had been coming to Africa each year to buy Shark Liver Oil and wanted her to be their agent in Ghana.

DCOP Adu-Poku said the caller further told the complainant that a bottle was costing 550 dollars and gave the number of a man in Ghana to contact and ascertain if he had quantities for sale.

He said when she called the number the man said he was called Frimpong and that he was the only agent in Ghana who imported the Oil from Saudi Arabia and proposed the same price quoted by Sark to the complainant but stressed that if she needed large quantities, he would reduce to 500 dollars per bottle.

The Regional Commander said the following day, Sark called the complainant to find out if she had discussed the deal with the agent and warned her not to tell anybody about it.

He said the complainant later through a telephone call got to know that the Sark who wanted to do business with her was not the one she knew in London.

Armed with this information and suspecting fraud alerted the Police who arrested Opoku on the 29th of August at Santase roundabout where he had arranged to meet the complainant to transact the deal.

Source:
GNA

 Govt will not accept unfavourable international agreements


Koforidua, Aug.31, GNA- The Ministry of Trade, Industry and President Special Initiatives will advice government against accepting any agreement under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) that would negatively affect the economic interest of farmers in the country. Mr. Vital Augustine Agbley, the Director of the Ministry in charge of the Volta and Eastern Regions, who disclosed this, said the Government was committed to assisting farmers to produce sensitive local farm produce.

He was speaking at the formal opening of a four-day international workshop on the production of sensitive produce in agriculture in relationship with ongoing discussions on the EPA, for leaders of farmers' organizations in the country Farmers Organization Network in Ghana (FONG), organized the workshop in collaboration with West Africa Network for Peasant Organizations and Agriculture Producers (ROPPA).

He said the Ministry had established a tariff board to advice government on how to use the tariff regime to protect the interest of local farmers.

Mr Agbley called on farmers in the country to form effective associations to advocate their concerns to ensure that officials considered their interest when formulating national policies. Mr. Mamadu Cissikho, president of ROPPA, observed that even though 85 per cent of agriculture produce in West Africa came from small-scale farmers, they were often poor and malnourished. He explained that this was because the West African market had been liberalised for foreign cheap agriculture produce to compete with the local produce to the extent that the produce of local farmers could not be sold.

Mr. Cissikho said it was time Africans fought for better agreements at all levels towards the improvement of agriculture sector. He said that while the African market was opened to goods from Europe, even after the signing of the EPA in December 31st this year, it would take 12 years for the European market to be opened to agriculture produce from Africa.

Dr. King David Amoah, the National President of FONG, observed that most agriculture trade policies, both local and international, were not in favour of small-scale farmers but rather screwed in favour of large-scale agricultural producers.

He said such conditions had led to the perpetuation of poverty among local farmers in the country, a situation that could make the realisation of the Millennium Development Goals difficult.

Source:
GNA

Daasebre Oti Boateng present computers to Moslem Education Fund


Koforidua, Sept 1, GNA- Daasebre Oti Boateng, Omanhene of the New Juaben Traditional Area, on Friday presented two sets of computers and accessories to the Secretariat of the Eastern Region Moslem Education Fund at Koforidua.

In addition, the Omanhene awarded a scholarship of 7, 500 Ghana Cedis to Iddriss Alhassan through the Moslem Education Fund, to enable Alhassan to attended the Koforidua Polytechnic. Daasebre Oti Boateng presented a check for the payment of the first part of the educational requirement of the beneficiary to the scholarship to the Fund.

He noted that there was no one superior religion and said if all adherents to different religions would accommodate each other, the world would be a peaceful and interesting place to live in. Daasebre Oti Boateng appealed to all Moslems in the Eastern Region to support the Moslem Education Fund for it to be able to sponsor Moslem children to acquire higher education.

Vice President Alhaji Aliu Mahama said the Government was fine-tuning the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) with the view to making it better and urged all Ghanaians to register with the scheme. He explained that, health was important in every aspect of life and said the NHIS provided access to good health care than the discriminatory cash and carry system.

Alhaji Mahama urged Ghanaians to be thankful to God for blessing them with the Government of President John Agyekum Kufuor, which had done so much for the country within the past seven years and commended Daasebre Oti Boateng for supporting the Moslem Education Fund.

Source:
GNA

Health workers sensitized on malaria

Nkoranza (B/A), Sept. 01 GNA - Mr. Richard Kwasi Hinneh, Nkoranza District Director of Health Services has emphasized that malaria is an enormous global health threat that needed attention in curbing the disease.

Mr. Hinneh was a ddressing about 120 health workers in the district at a three-day training workshop on the management of malaria and its intermittent preventive treatment among pregnant women at the various health facilities at Nkoranza.

He explained that pregnancy worsened malaria because of reduction in immunity and therefore posed substantial risk to the expectant mother and the unborn baby.

Mr. Hinneh advised pregnant women to attach great importance in attending antenatal clinics so as to receive the necessary preventive treatment.

The district Director of health service disclosed that the Ministry of Health had launched a policy dubbed: 'Anti-malaria drug policy' aimed at providing anti-malaria drugs for pregnant women at pre-defined intervals.

Mr. Hinneh reminded the people, especially nursing mothers about the importance of the use of insecticide treated nets, adding that his outfit had supplied more than 5,000 nets to nursing mothers in the various communities.

In spite of this, malaria cases and its associated infant deaths in the district were on ascendancy, he said and called on assembly members and other opinion leaders to educate the people to promote environmental sanitation and encourage them to use the treated nets to guard against the disease. He mentioned anaemia, low birth weight, abortions, pre-term deliveries and still births as some effects of malaria on pregnant women.

Mr. Hinneh expressed concern about the outbreak of Buluri Ulcer, disclosing that as at June this year, the district had recorded 17 cases as against three cases recorded in the previous year. He appealed to government to take serious note about the spread of the disease since Buluri Ulcer caused great damage to the health of its victims.

Source:
GNA

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• 31.08.2007

GBC to be privatized?


Don't sell GBC - Dr Atuguba
Accra, Aug. 30, GNA - Dr. Raymond Atuguba, Lecturer, Faculty of Law, University of Ghana on Thursday said to sell GBC was to sell the potential voices of the Ghanaian and African people to pave the way for their complete oppression by national and global forces.

He said to sell GBC, the government of Ghana and the public should be willing to pay 0.5 percent of Value Added Tax to turn GBC into a global media giant such as the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), the Voice of America (VOA), Cable News Network (CNN) and Aljazeera. He said the distinguishing mark between GBC and other global media giants must be that the GBC should not be used as a tool of oppression but it should rather seek to serve the public interest.

Privatisation of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) was not the panacea to the problem of funding Public Service Broadcasting (PSB) in the country.

"GBC must reform, yes, but reforming GBC does not mean marketising it. The fact that the market model is the cheapest, most readily available, and the currently the most dominant, does not mean that it is the proper model for GBC".

Dr Atuguba, was delivery a lecture organized by the GBC as part of activities marking the 72nd Anniversary in Accra.

He said there was overwhelming evidence that the global marketisation of public broadcasting had not been a success story. The lecture, which was on the topic: "Financing the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation as a public broadcaster" was to discuss the role of GBC as PSB in the face of its dwindling funding from the state and the international pressure to open its doors to the "free market". Dr. Atuguba said the market had not been able to provide the quality, diversity and plurality that majority of the public desired. "We need to note that it is not only PSB, but the entire global broadcasting sector, including the marketised sector that is in dire straits," he added.

Dr Atuguba said for people to call for the improvement in the financing of PSB by putting it on the market was therefore a call for the collapse of PSB.

"We must remember that all oppression begins with the imposition of voicelessness. When there is a military coup d'etat, the first and fiercest points of contestation and the first line casualties, are the symbols and channels of the voice of the people."

Dr. Atuguba also argued that the attempt by GBC to adapt to new circumstances, especially with the explosion of both radio and television stations in the country, the corporation was at risk of destroying its philosophy and the mandate that it was set up for. He said with the fanatical and tense desire by the corporation to meet targets and pay the bills through competition could completely erode the philosophy, orientation, standards, systems, and practice of distinct and socially valuable broadcasting system that PSB should be. 30 Aug. 07

Source:
GNA

Privatization Of GT On Course


Government says it is on course to privatize Ghana Telecom, arguably the largest telecommunication company in the country, by the end of the year.

Minister of Communication, Dr. Benjamine Aggrey Ntim says the transaction advisers have been working assiduously to ensure that final bidders are chosen on time.

Government last May selected Ecobank Development Corporation (EDC) and Societe Generale (S-G) as transaction advisors for the valuation of the company.

The two companies are to serve as advisers on the valuation of the assets of GT, leading to a subsequent pricing of the shares. They are also expected to advise Government on which strategic investor to choose for GT.

Though FRANCE TELECOM has expressed interest in controlling a substantial stake in Ghana Telecom when the privatization process is complete, it is not known whether it will succeed.

About 51 per cent of GT’s shares are expected to be off-loaded to a strategic investor, while the remainder will be listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE).

Government is expected to retain about 20 percent stake in Ghana Telecom.

Source:
Daily Guide

Asogli State prepares for yam festival


Ho, Aug. 31, GNA- The Asogli State has begun preparations towards the celebration of this year's Yam Festival.

At the early hours of Friday, patriotic citizens of the area were seen tidying up streets in the Ho Township and other communities. A statement released to GNA, requested all Christians within the jurisdiction of the State to observe a weeklong fasting and prayer from Sunday September 2 through to September 9 for the month long celebrations.

The festival is celebrated every year to thank God for his protection, good harvest and to promote family reunion to enhance the socio-economic development of the State.

The most interesting and most attended programmes according history, the hailing of Yam (Teyuyru) and the grand durbar who take place on September 21 and 29 respectively. Other activities for the celebration include; health walk, football matches, bicycle race, cooking contest, mini durbars, public lectures and gospel rock show among others.

Source:
GNA

Using disabled children to beg -caution


Takoradi, Aug. 31, GNA - The use of disabled children in begging for alms is an offence and a violation of both the Disability Bill of 2006 and the Children's Act of 1998, Mr Anthony E Amoah, Western Regional Minister had said.

"Their disability should not be used as an opportunity to deprive them off education or skills training but all efforts must be made to develop their potentials and skills for their future survival and independence". Mr Amoah said this at a day's forum aimed at assisting in the implementation of the Act in Takoradi on Wednesday. It was organised by the Ghana Federation of the Disabled (GFD) for persons with disability (PWD), health personnel, civil society and human rights activists.

The Regional Minister said under the Children's Act, "no person shall treat a disabled child in an undignified manner". "A disabled child has a right to special care, education and training wherever possible to develop his maximum potential and be self-reliant", Mr. Amoah stressed.

He said the 1992 Constitution was against discrimination of all forms and every opportunity must be made available to assist them access public places, schools, health facilities and social centres. Mr Yaw O Debrah, Coordinator of the Ghana Federation of the Disabled (GFD) appealed to the media to assist in sensitising the public adequately towards the implementation of the Disability Act. 31 Aug. 07

Source:
GNA

 EDITORIAL: Politicians Should Stop Deceiving Us


The Daily Graphic yesterday quoted the former Defence Minister, Dr. Kwame Addo Kufuor as saying that he would make corrupt practices very expensive and costly for all, if given the nod as flag bearer of NPP and subsequently, as President of the nation.

The former Minister was further quoted as saying that the tag of corruption erodes the moral authority of government and exposes representative governance to enemies of democracy. It also reduces that trust of the people in their elected representatives.

The Chronicle wishes to put on record that this is not the first time that we are hearing our politicians promising to wage war on corruption. In fact, in all African countries the fight against corruption has become a tool that politicians use to convince people to vote for them. Here in Ghana, we can cite our own former President, Flt. Lt (rtd) Jerry John Rawlings who staged two successful coups one of which saw the execution of some former Heads of State.

We can also cite the current President, John Agyekum Kufuor who, upon assumption of office, declared a zero tolerance for corruption. Despite these public pronouncements by our leaders they always fail to enforce or punish their ministers and other government appointees who have had corrupt charges levelled against them. We vividly recall the case where former President Rawlings' government issued a white paper to exonerate some of his ministers who were found to have engaged in corrupt practices by a no mean body like the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ).

This was at a time that the same leader had led a coup and executed some other Ghanaians over the same offence. In the case of President Kufuor, after making sure that his government prosecuted the former Minister of Youth and Sports, Mallam Yussif Issa for the role he played in the missing $46,000, nothing concrete has been done to convince Ghanaians that he meant what he said about the zero tolerance for corruption. As it happened in the NDC days, corruption charges are flying all over the place but no government official has been dragged to court to face the music.

We concede that various mechanisms have been put in place to check corruption but until we allow these mechanisms to work, such interventions become meaningless. It is based on the above argument that The Chronicle finds Addo Kufuor's position on the subject a mere rhetoric. At least, what we have just mentioned proves that our politicians in Ghana and the African continent as a whole do not take the fight against corruption to its logical conclusion.

If Addo Kufuor and in fact those politicians who use corruption as a weapon to win elections have no other campaign messages, they should stop disturbing our ears with the promise to fight against this canker. Ghanaians will be better off without such pronoupncements. If Dr. Addo Kufuor and other politicians in the country want Ghanaians to believe in what they are saying this time, then the action must start now.

Source:
Ghanaian Chronicle

BNI survey causes panic -Ghanaian Observer



According to the Ghanaian Observer, its publication on Monday of results of a nationwide survey undertaken by the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) on the chances of the 17 persons who are considered serious contenders in the race to succeed President Kufuor at the NPP's upcoming congress, has created a panic situation.
“Apart from two of the NPP aspirants who have called to admit the fact that they are aware of the existence of such a survey; others have also routed complaints to us by proxy.”

Some of the complaints border on what the aspirants call "the timing of the story", whereas others have stated outright that the Ghanaian Observer does not like their candidature; hence the publication of the results.

According to the survey, the BNI put forward Nana Akufo-Addo as the man to beat in the NPP primaries with Alan Kyeremanten, Veep Aliu Mahama and Dr. Addo Kufuor following in that order in the top ranks.

The mid-rank is made up of Boakye Kyeremanten Agyarko, Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku, Yaw Osafo Maafo, Prof. Kwabena Frimpong Boateng, Jake Obetsebi-Lamptey, Felix Owusu Adjepong, Dan Botwe, Hackman Owusu Agyeman and Prof. Mike Oquaye in that order.

“The lower rungs lines up in this order, Capt (Rtd) Nkrabea Effah-Darteh, Papa Owusu Ankomah, Kwabena Agyapong and Dr. Arthur Kennedy.

The Observer claims the survey was commissioned by the national security apparatus.

"So controversial is the survey result that all manner of interest groups have also attempted to a assail it, and explained that an accompanying scanned cover sheet of the said report, was to assure its readers that the BNI indeed carried out the survey." said the paper

The report, also looked at the strengths and weaknesses of the various aspirants, and in the case of Vice President Aliu Mahama, the report said that " ... he has had enough leadership periods as the second man of the land ... " and proceeds to state that "he is the number three [3] man in terms of popularity. His position as the Vice President of the country has strengthened his chances to about ten [10%]. Even though he is strong on the ground, he is yet to assert his influence in especially the Zongo communities."

Of Dr. Kwame Addo Kufuor, the report says "Based on his wonderful leadership and transformation of the security agencies under the Ministry of Defence, Addo-Kufuor is well known among all spheres of the populace. Being a brother of the incumbent President of the Republic of Ghana has also made him easily identifiable ... "

In fifth position, Boakye Agyarko had the following summary: "He commands about four percent [4%] of the people in the area. His power of oratory, good sense of humour and his one time assassination attempt on his life by the PNDC regime, has won him enough sympathy. Also, reports that he had financially supported the party whilst in opposition and his maternal side hailing from Manya Krobo has catapulted him higher."

In sixth position, Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku had this measurement: "He is rated sixth in the region. Despite his fall out from President Kufuor's cabinet, he commands about four [4%] of the populace ... Apraku is tipped amongst both the NPP hierarchy and the general populace as one of the most qualified persons to lead NPP in the December, 2008 elections ... "

Enter Yaw Osafo Maafo at number 7, the report says this of him among other things: "Regarded as one of the most seasoned politicians in the country, Osafo Maafo is rated a successful banker and Minister of Finance by the populace. However, most people have indicated that he is not a presidential material for the NPP and the country for various reasons. The reasons include his personality which most people, especially females find questionable ... "

The paper has promised to publish comments about the rest of the polled aspirants.

Source:
Ghanaian Observer

Man Kills Friend With A Punch

What started as a mere exchange of words between two friends, Kofi Antwi and Akwasi Yeboah, at Asante Mampong in Ashanti, turned sour when Yeboah allegedly landed a hefty blow on the throat of his friend, killing him instantly.

After the incident, which took place yesterday at about 8 am, near the Electricity Company’s office, in the full glare of many people, Yeboah attempted to escape but was apprehended by the crowd and handed over to the police.

Police Chief Inspector, Amissah who is handling the case, confirmed this story to the Times but declined to give details.

Eye-witnesses, however, told the Times that it all started when Yeboah, a secondhand clothe dealer, complained about the loss of some of his items and Antwi responded that he knew the culprit.

On hearing that, Yeboah demanded to know the person, insisting that failure to mention the name meant that Antwi was the culprit.

That generated into an argument during which Yeboah lost his temper and landed the hefty blow, that ended Antwi’s life.

Source:
Times

Delta Airlines to operate five services per week


Accra, Aug. 31, GNA- Delta Airlines a major airline is to operate five non-stop services per week between Ghana and the United States as from 12th December, 2007, the airline announced on Friday

The increase in flight services is aimed at responding to high passenger demand for its Accra to New York services during the season by increasing its service frequency.

The increase is also attributed to higher volumes of passengers wishing to travel to and from the United States during the Christmas and New Year period.

A statement issued by Mr Scott Webb, Commercial Manager at Delta, Ghana Office explained that the airline would operate daily nonstop service from Accra from 22 December until February 1, when the service will again be operated five times weekly.

"We are delighted with the performance of our non-stop service between Accra and New York JFK. Since we launched the route in December last year we have seen average load factors of over 70 percent and have enplaned over 40, 000 passengers."

Mr. Webb said by increasing the number of weekly frequencies to five, Delta airlines was offering opportunities for tourists from the United States wishing to travel to Ghana.

He said with over a million Ghanaians living in or around the New York area, the airline was delighted to make it even easier for friends and families to be reunited over the holiday season, thanks to daily nonstop service between Ghana and the United States over the Christmas and New Year period.

Delta's non-stop service between Accra and New York JFK is operated using Boeing 767-300ER aircraft with 36 seats in Business-Elite, offering industry-leading entertainment at every customer's seat.

Source:
GNA

Antrak Air resumes West Coast flights next month

Accra, Aug. 31, GNA - Antrak Air, one of Ghana's private airlines, says it would resume operations to Lagos, Monrovia and Freetown from September 16, 2007.

The decision which is part of the airline's mission to become the dominant link between Africa and the rest of the world would see an increase in its frequency to Ouagadougou from two to three times weekly. A statement issued in Accra on Friday said Antrak Air had acquired a Boeing 737 aircraft for these destinations to ensure high customer satisfaction and comfort.

It explained that Antrak Air would operate two flights daily from Accra to Lagos from Monday to Friday at 0600 hours and 1800 hours as well as one flight each at 0600 hours on Saturdays and 1600 hours on Sundays.

Antrak Air will also fly three times a week to Monrovia and Freetown on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

There would also be a third flight to Ouagadougou on Sundays connecting from Cotonou. Domestic flights to Kumasi and Tamale will continue as scheduled, the statement said.

The wholly Ghanaian-owned airline was incorporated in December 2001 and commenced operations in September 2003 as a domestic operator. But Antrak Air has rapidly grown and expanded its operations to include flights to Ouagadougou and last June started a weekly flight to Cotonou.

Alhaji Asoma Banda, Chairman of Antrak Air, expressed delight at the resumption of the flights, which he said, were in line with the mission of the airline, which is using Ghana as the gateway by providing competitive, safe, reliable and efficient services delivered by customer focused employees.

The schedules will enable air passengers to travel freely and with ease across the West African sub-region as well as to connect easily to long haul flights from Accra.

Other West African destinations, Abidjan, Bamako, Banjul, Dakar, and Lome would be served by the end of the first quarter of 2008, the statement said.

Source:
GNA

Trader in court for selling fake university admission letters


Accra, Aug. 31, GNA - A Circuit Court in Accra on Friday sentenced a trader to three years' imprisonment for his involvement in collecting a total of GH 3,100 cedis (31 million cedis) from two students under the pretext of issuing them with genuine admission letters to the University of Ghana, Legon.

Nana Yaw Ansah pleaded guilty to possessing forged documents and was therefore convicted and sentenced on his own plea. Ansah, alias Mankind, however, leaded not guilty to conspiracy, defrauding by false pretences and attempted fraud and he will reappear on September 11 in respect of the other charges.

Assistant Superintendent of Police E. Yaw Frimpong told the court presided over by Mr Justice Frank Manu, a high court judge with additional responsibility as a circuit court judge, that Ansah was a second-hand clothes seller at the Kantamanto Market in Accra. He said during the registration of fresh students into the University of Ghana, Legon, for the 2006/07 academic year, the accused and his accomplice, one Timothy, now at large, collected GH 1,700 cedis (17 million cedis) from Ms Maame Sika Dapaah and GH 1,400 cedis (14 million cedis) from Mr Eric Boateng Agyemang.

The Prosecutor said Ansah said the money was meant for registration processes to enable the fresh students gain admission into the university, but the accused failed to assist them.

According to him, Ms Dapaah's mother who was not convinced about the deal, managed to meet Timothy and after an interrogation, the accomplice sensed danger and therefore requested Ansah to retrieve the false admission letter from the student.

ASP Frimpong said the police were alerted and surveillance was mounted on the accused who was subsequently arrested. When his room was searched, the police found the admission letters of the University for 2006/07 academic year, which were addressed to eight students, and other false documents.

He said when the university authorities determined that they were fake letters.

Source:
GNA

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• 30.08.2007

 68 Police Officers Fired


Sixty eight police officers have been dismissed from the Police Service so far this year for gross misconduct. These include 10 dismissals in August alone. The acting Director of the Police Public Affairs Directorate, Samuel Kwesi Ofori, disclosed this to the Times yesterday after the Inspector General of Police had held an emergency meeting with officers of the Police Motor Traffic Transport Unit.

Gross misconduct is breaking the rules or not following the laid down regulations.The August dismissals include two senior officers, Superintendent Osei Assibey Ahenkan, Akropong, Divisional Commander and Assistant Superintendent of Police Stephen Anane Boye Tetteh, Akosombo District Commander. The two officers, as well as Constables Bright Odoi Nkansah and Raphael Batsa, were alleged to have intercepted two cars loaded with contraband cigarettes at the Atimpoku Toll Bridge but failed to forward the car carrying the goods to the Police Headquarters.

The six others alleged to have deserted their post and gone to Axim to escort cocaine allegedly dumped there by dealers. They are: General Constables Dennis Agyemang, Mensah Gray, Gideon Sakabitu George Obuobi and Lance Corporals Daniel Kagya and Ebenezer Quao Afachao. General Constable Daniel Mensah who was alleged to be part of the team that went to Axim was acquitted and discharged because it was found that he was genuinely on leave and also, no weapon was found on him whereas his colleges went there with weapons. Quoting the IGP, he said that the Police Administration will not shelve or compromise on any personnel or officer who will fall foul against the regulations of the Service.

In recent times, the Police Service has come under serious criticism from the public over the misconduct of some officers and he said if not checked such actions will dent the image and reputation of the service. He said last year, a total of 66 Police officers as against 49 in 2005 and 12 in 2004, respectively were dismissed from the service for gross misconduct which included extortion, bribery and abuse of human rights including assault. DSP Ofori noted that the Police Administration has taken a serious look at the behaviours, operations and activities of personnel of the service saying that “the Police Administration will leave no stone unturned in the discharge of its duties.”

Touching on the IGP’s meetings with the personnel of the Police MTTU, he said the Police administration will deal ruthlessly with any personnel of that unit who engages in unlawful practices. He spoke about complaints from drivers about tactics used by some policemen to force them to offer them bribes. These include the removal or collection of roadworthy stickers’ vehicle licences and insurance stickers. DSP Ofori said the IGP has charged officers to relay messages to their subordinates to desist from such acts and warned drivers to also desist from giving money to policemen when they are arrested.

Source:
Ghanaian Times

 Four Top Cops Retired


Manfo, Akrofi, Yakubu, Tandoh, Avuyi Exit
... Date of birth change did no help

The Police Council after meeting last Friday finally concluded to retire four top police officers whose retirement in the Ghana Police Service had long elapsed but were still at post on contract.
The four included the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Operations, Dr. Kofi Kesse Marfo, the Accra Regional Commander, DCOP Douglas Akrofi Asiedu aka charge, the Commander of the Motor Transport and Traffic Unit, ACP Victor Tandoh and the Kaneshie Divisional Commmander, Madam Fati.

Meanwhile the Director-General of Police in charge of Operations, DCOP Jonathan Yakubu who was supposed to have retired on April 17 has left the Service to begin serve with the United Nations in Liberia.

The Inspector General of Police has as well directed 16 other officers of the ranks, Commissioners, Assist Commissioners and Chief Superintendents to proceed on their compulsory retirement.

The Chronicle gathered that the Lone Ranger in the Police Service, Supt Paul Avuyi, the District Commander of Jasikan has voluntarily gone on Retirement after enduring years of frustrations, fighting alleged injustice in the Police Service.

Dr. K. K. Manfo's (pictured) petition to the Police Council last year that his original date of birth was July 21, 1950 and not July 23, 1947 as he had previously inserted personally in his records in the Service, failed to fly.

Dr. Marfo, a high profile officer who recently survived a scare over his son's suspected implication in a UK bombing incident despite the controversy that erupted on his birth date, was recognized as a great police officer.

He was the Accra Regional Commander, crime, and was reduced drastically until he was promoted to head Police Operations at the Police headquarters. For a very long time he was the only police officer with a doctorate degree in Africa until this record was broken by one other African.

Schools attended include, Achiase L.A Middle School, Nkwanta Training College, University of Ghana.

Some of the certificates he held include B.A(Hons), M.A/M Phil and Doctor of Philosophy.

The exit of DCOP Akrofi would be a great joy for some members of the opposition parties, the Committee for Joint Action (CJA), some student bodies and a section of the press since he has been a thorn on their flesh.
The CJA for instance has publicly castigated him for restraining them on some occasions when they decided to embark on demonstrations.
He is currently battling with this paper in court over allegations against him which he claims are libelous.
Nevertheless he has been able to hold the front remarkably after he took over from ACP Jonathan Kofi Boakye. Crime, in the region is currently down. ACP Yakubu joined the Services in 1947. Since then he rose through the ranks to the position of Deputy Commissioner.
He was the Nima Divisional Commander and was subsequently transferred to head Tema Region after which he was sent to the Police Headquarters to take over from ACP Kofi Boajkye when he was asked to proceed on leave.
So far he has been able to take over, recently he moved in to Kumasi when information was rife that Ashanti Region was now on top regarding crime.
Since then latest statistic indicates that reported cases of crime in the region has reduced from 47 robbery cases in 15th May to June 17 to 15 cases from 18th june to July 20.
ACP Tandoh would be missed by all for his humility in addressing motor accidents, since he assumed that position he has sensitized the public about traffic road regulations and precautions to avoid accidents.
He would always move in personally to accident spots to put his expertise to play.
Supt Avuyi became a hero when he stated in a petition to the President that the Police Service was sick in the mid 90s He was demoted from the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) to Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), however, he was vindicated by the Archer Commission that was set up to investigate his Statement. The recommendations were largely adopted as most of his statements were recommendations to help the Service move ahead..
Supt Avuyi's 34 years in police service has seen modest contributions in the service by him.
In 1999, he initiated and facilitated a British High Commission funding for a scooping study on police service records management restructuring project.
In 2001, he went to the United Nations International Children's Education Fund (UNICEF) office in Accra to arrange funding for a child protection-training course for junior officers, which is ongoing.
In 2002 at the height of violent crimes, he facilitated arrangements for sponsorship by the Metro TV for a crime prevention education programme, dubbed, "the police and you" and he was the brain behind the creation of a records centre or archives at the basement of the police headquarters building.
He was the initiator of the development of a strategy for encouraging the growth of neighbourhood watch schemes which saw about 50 inspectors selected from all the police regions on crime prevention neighbourhood.
He has been a critic of the previous IGPs whom he served but for now has never made any attack on the current IGP.
He retired immediately he returned from the African Union Peace Keeping in Darfur, Sudan.
Now the position of Deputy IGP in charge of Operations is obviously up for grabs but this position is the prerogative of the government. Now the candidates include, Paul Quaye, Adu Gyimah, Brakatue, Arthur, and S.B Mettle since they are all Commissioners.
Police authorities have failed to respond to questions pertaining to the order to proceed on retirement issue on the grounds that it was an internal issue.


Source:
Ghanaian Chronicle

Dam Contractors disgruntled over delayed payments


Bolgatanga, Aug 30, GNA- A survey carried out by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in the Upper East Region indicates that there is growing discontent among contractors undertaking dam projects, as a result of undue delays in payments for work done.

The contractors in question are engaged in the rehabilitation of dams in various communities including Manyoro, Namonsa, Yamerega, Sandema and Garu-Tempane, under an International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and Government of Ghana joint sponsorship. Some of the contractors who wished to remain anonymous said payments have never been prompt since they began work on those projects in the early part of 2006.

Their latest payment certificates for work done, which were submitted to the Regional Directorate of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture since October last year have still not been paid, they maintained.

According to them, explanations given by officials at the Regional Directorate of the Ministry in Bolgatanga were inconsistent and unsatisfactory.

They contractors said around December last year, "they told us that funds would arrive from the IFAD office in Rome for payment of the current certificates, but after keeping us in suspense for about 10 months they are saying it is the various District Assemblies where the projects are sited which would pay for the works." They contended that in addition to creating problems between them and their bankers, the delay in payment also had an adverse effect on their work schedule.

The GNA also gathered that the general view among these aggrieved contractors was that this unfair attitude towards local dam contractors in the Upper East was at variance with official pronouncements about the importance the Ministry attaches to the provision of dams and, for that matter, the promotion of irrigated farming in the Region. They indicated that if the prevailing trend was not addressed with urgency, no contractor in the Region would like to take up dam works in future due to the unpleasant experiences associated with such projects, and urged the Minister of Food and Agriculture to personally intervene to ensure the immediate release of their monies. Most of the people in the communities believe that the objective of providing dams as a viable substitute to rain water for agricultural purposes could be thwarted if the factors responsible for the frustrations dam contractors are currently going through are not urgently dealt with.

Source:
GNA

We did not conduct NPP polls -BNI


The Bureau of National Investigations, (BNI) has denied ever conducting any poll on the popularity of the presidential aspirants of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

The Ghanaian Observer newspaper reported on Wednesday that a nationwide survey by the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) conducted in the last three months has put Abuakwa South MP, Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo up as the man to beat in the race to succeed President Kufuor. Alan Kyeremanten was placed second and Vice president Aliu Mahama was third position.

The survey, according to the newspaper, was commissioned by the national security apparatus. (READ)

However, BNI officials who spoke to the Accra-based radio station - JOYFM - off the record, have said no such poll had been conducted by the BNI.

This response is coming in the face of public reactions to the poll.

Some political observers have criticized the BNI for wasting public funds on an otherwise unnecessary venture.

Others also questioned the mandate of the BNI with respect to conducting public polls on political party presidential aspirants as against their core functions of securing the state.

Meanwhile, the Editor-in-Chief of the Ghanaian Observer newspaper, Egbert Faibille has JOYFM that he stands by his report, claiming that he has copies of the poll results in his possession.

When he was asked to present the report, he declined and said he was not obliged to submit the report for verification.

Source:
jfm

30,000 farmers benefit from food security project


Tamale, Aug.30, GNA - At least 30,000 farmers have benefited from a food security project initiated by the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA-Ghana) 11 years ago and funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

From 1997, ADRA embarked on the project for 16,000 farmer households with about 160,000 beneficiaries in nine regions while in 2002, the USAID for the second time, funded the programme, through which some 14,000 farmers with 140,000 beneficiaries benefited. Mrs. Victoria Daaku, Programmes Director of ADRA-Ghana, disclosed this at a ceremony to mark the winding up of the project in Tamale on Wednesday.

She said the close-out activities had included the mapping of fruit tree crop establishments (citrus, cashew and mango farms) and the linking of client farmers to marketing organisations. She said all participating farmers would be handed over to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) and the district assemblies for continuity.

Mrs Daaku said although the food security project was closing, ADRA-Ghana would continue to implement other projects, including new ones, adding that her organisation was currently discussing with other donors and district assemblies to start similar projects. This would enable ADRA-Ghana to transfer the experiences and lessons from the project to other communities. She said under the ADRA/USAID project, the Northern Region was supported over the past ten years to cultivate soybeans, groundnuts and maize.

In a power point presentation, Mrs Daaku showed that under the project the Savelugu/Nanton District established 18 mango farms, 142 cashew farms and 27 woodlots and constructed 271 silos. The Tolon/Kumbungu District established 28 woodlots and cultivated 73 cashew farms and constructed 345 mud silos. Mr. Sylvester Adongo, Northern Regional Director of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture commended ADRA-Ghana for helping to improve food security in the region through its interventions. He urged the district assemblies and beneficiary communities of the ADRA-initiated projects to take proper care of facilities that would be handed over to them.

Source:
GNA

ADB to invest two million dollars in large-scale farming

Savelugu (N/R), Aug. 30, GNA - The Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) will invest more than two million dollars to promote large-scale cultivation of cotton, mango and sheanuts in the three Northern Regions, its management has said.

Mr. Edward Boakye-Agyeman, Managing Director of the bank said under the project, 500 farmers each from the Northern, Upper East and Upper West Regions would be assisted with irrigation facilities, insecticides and other inputs to increase yield and improve upon their incomes. He said this when he and Mr Paul Koranteng, the Board chairman, inspected a 21-acre Dolana Ayana Organic Mango Farm at the outskirts of Savelugu in the Savelugu/Nanton District on Wednesday. Mr Boakye-Agyeman said the Bank hoped to recover its investment after a six to eight-year period after which it would transfer ownership of the farms to the farmers.

He said last year, the Bank assisted 29,000 farmers in the three regions in the production, distribution and marketing of cotton to the Ghana Cotton Company and "OLAM", a multi-national company. Alhaji Ayana Yakubu, owner of the Mango farm, said he had plans to expand the plantation to 400 acres and also protect water bodies around it.

Source:
GNA

Mpasaso disaster victims receive relief items


Mankranso (Ash), Aug. 30, GNA - The Ahafo-Ano District Assembly has presented 68 packets of roofing sheets valued at GH=A27,000 (70 million cedis) to 68 disaster victims at Mpasaso to re-roof their buildings affected by a recent rainstorm.

Presenting the items at Mankranso, Mr Kwaku Obeng Boatgeng, District Chief Executive, advised the people who lived in deplorable structures to take the necessary steps to rehabilitate them to avoid any future calamity.

He urged the beneficiaries not to divert the items but to use them for the purpose for which they were donated. Mr Stephen Kwaku Balado Manu, Member of Parliament (MP) for the area, charged the people to plant trees around their surroundings to serve as windbreaks and check soil erosion to avoid the occurrence of disasters.

Source:
GNA

Nigerians launch 47th independence anniversary / 1.October


Accra, Aug. 30, GNA - The Nigerian High Commission in Ghana said on Thursday it would not defend Nigerians engaged in criminal activities in Ghana.

It said those who found themselves in such nefarious activities would face the laws of the country and asked the criminals to desist from giving Nigeria a bad name.

Mr. Simon Eze, a Minister at the High Commission said this when he launched a special Gala Night to commemorate Nigeria's 47th Independence Day celebration, which falls on October 1. Proceeds from the event would be used to support some orphanages. He noted that those whose work or activities would raise high, the flag of Nigeria would receive all the backing they needed from the Commission, citing the increasing number of Nigerian banks in the Ghanaian Banking industry which made banking more competitive now. "Henceforth there would be nothing like 'the Nigerian way' but all things would follow the due process" he said, and urged members of the Nigerian community to give a good account of themselves and do away with the erroneous impression being tagged at them.

He said the Commission would work towards the further strengthening of the bilateral relationship between the two countries. Mr Henry Shebure, a member of the planning committee said the occasion was not only to celebrate the anniversary but also to encourage Nigerians to support the orphanages in Ghana. He called on the Nigerian as well as the Ghanaian business community to support the event.

Source:
GNA

 Dress styles of youth would soon pass away


Takoradi, Aug. 30, GNA- Professor George P. Hagan, Chairman of the Centre for National Culture (CNC) has said that the patronage of indecent dressing by the youth would soon be a thing of the past.

He said fashion was only temporary and each generation chose what suits them, but stressed that "this could not erode the cultural and traditional values of the Ghanaian".

Prof. Hagan said these at a day's workshop on the new cultural policy at Takoradi on Wednesday.

He said culture was a very complex thing and the demand for laws to ban such dresses would not achieve the desired results. Prof. Hagan rather suggested that parents and schools should speak against the excesses and with time, the "exposing of several parts of the female body will change".

He said drastic change would be resisted by the various interest groups and would also be difficult to enforce, rather, it must be spoken against gradually and persistently and the desired results would be achieved.

Prof. Hagan said women want to be attractive to the opposite sex and that the current dress styles of the women were only transitional. He called on all Ghanaians to be tolerant, but still draw the attention of the youth to the cultural values and norms of dressing, eating, walking and other aspects of their culture. Prof. Hagan urged the media to develop their cultural consciousness and assist in educating the public on the new cultural policy. He said the excessive use of the English language in all educational institutions must be done alongside the local dialect of the community. Prof. Hagan therefore called on the government to enforce the cultural policy on languages to enable all educational institutions to combine both Ghanaian languages and English in schools and for teaching. Osabarima Kwaw Entsie, Omanhene of the Mpohor traditional area called for the re-packaging of the Ghanaian culture and traditions to enable others to patronise it.

He said many communities have lost their identities including their traditional foods and dressing due either to inferiority complex or general disregard.

Osabarima Entsie urged all Ghanaians to feel proud about their rich cultural heritage and advertise it as much as possible. He said chiefs would have to lead in the crusade of reversing the negative cultural practices in the country.

Source:
GNA

Snake Turns to Human ...


The Butumagyeabu townwship, a farming community near Sekondi in the Western region on Tuesday became the centre of attraction as thousands of people trooped there to catch a glimpse of ‘the snake man’. The man, whose name was not immediately known, was alleged to have turned from a snake into a human being.

When Daily Guide got the community at about 1:15pm, the forecourt of the chief’s palace where the alleged snake man was being kept had been besieged by irate youth of the area who were calling for the head of the man. One of the youth, Ebenezer Forson told Daily Guide in an interview that the man’s alleged action indicated that he was a wizard so he deserved to die.

According to him, the man had confessed to being a wizard and that he had caused a lot of harm to people in the area including killing some of them. Briefing Daily Guide on the mysterious incident, Mr. John Laar, a farmer, said he was going to farm around 11:00am on Tuesday when he saw two snakes engaged in a scuffle on the ground. He explained that he wanted to use his cutlass to kill the snakes but surprisingly, one of the reptiles quickly crawled away.

Mr. Laar disclosed that even though he was scared, he mustered courage and attempted to kill the other snake that was still around, but as he raised the cutlass to smack the snake, the reptile started taking on a human form. The farmer said as the snake was turning into a human being, he hit its mouth with his cutlass, but it suddenly turned into an old man believed to be in his early sixties. The old man prevailed upon Mr. Laar not to kill him, and warned him also not to reveal what he had seen, as he (Laar) would die in two days’ time if he told anyone.

The farmer went on to say that he was angered by the strange man’s utterance and so decided to let the cat out of the bag. He told Daily Guide that he dragged the snake man to the place of the chief of the area and called some radio stations in Takoradi to break the news to them. “Within a few minutes, those who had heard the story on radio rushed in to see the man”, the farmer said. People who were at the scene called the police, who came and swiftly whisked the ‘snake man’ away so as to avoid any possible misfortune.

Source:
Daily Guide

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• 29.08.2007 

Ghanaians Deported From Spain


Ten Ghanaian deportees arrived yesterday from Madrid, Spain, where they had served various jail sentences for drug trafficking. Others who were unlucky in their bid to make it to Spain via Senegalese waters were treated as “witches” and killed by local crewmen who attributed their inability to find their way at sea to the presence of the Ghanaians onboard the vessel.

Reports reaching the Daily Guide newspaper indicated that those murdered on the high seas by Senegalese crewmen in July were suspected of casting a spell or using ‘juju’ to confuse the crew’s compass. A preliminary investigation conducted by the Ghana Mission in Dakar, Senegal after Daily Guide’s exclusive story indicated that 25 Ghanaians were part of the 200 passengers onboard the Ghanaian-owned dug-out canoe which had set out for the voyage to Spain. A number of survivors who were interviewed by Embassy officials confirmed the killings.

The 200 passengers onboard the canoe were made up of 25 Ghanaians, 115 Senegalese, a 45-man crew and 45 Gambians.The fateful voyage commenced from the Island village of Diogue in the conflict-zone of Casamance, Senegal on 28th July, 2007. The canoe, though Ghanaian-owned, was captained by a Senegalese known as Ndugu who was supported by a crew of 45 Senegalese and 8 Ghanaians. After 11 days at sea and unable to find their way, the crew were said to have opted for mystical powers to enable them fish out who among the passengers were responsible for their plight. At the end of the mystical rituals, they blamed a number of Ghanaians whom they suspected of casting spells on the boat and its passengers. The first victim after the ritual was a certain Alex Takyi, the only passenger who could speak French amongst the Ghanaians. He was pushed out of the boat and thrown into the shark-infested sea.

The Senegalese were said to have drawn the blood of their victims, cut the tongue and later dismembered other parts of the body for ritualistic purposes. This, the mission stated, was being investigated. According to the report, other Ghanaians to suffer this fate were Yaw Tanor, Botwe and two others who were yet to be named. Meanwhile, it has been revealed that the fateful journey for the Ghanaians started from Mankessim in the Central Region. It was organised by a syndicate which lured interested persons in search of greener pastures in Europe for the trip to Spain via The Gambia, through Senegal and Mauritania.

A certain Isaiah and Moses Abban who hail from Mankessim, together with other Ghanaians living in Senegal have been mobilizing clients through phone calls for the trans-Atlantic voyage to Europe. The journey from Mankessim, the report continued, was undertaken on public buses between the Central Regional town and the Gambia. The fateful voyage commenced from the Island village of Diogue in the conflict-zone of Casamance, Senegal on 28th July, 2007.When land was finally sighted, 20 terrified Ghanaians onboard the canoe, alongside other nationals, opted to terminate the voyage, jumping off the boat. Upon their disembarkation, the Mauritanian Police assisted them to contact the Red Cross Society in Rousso in Northern Senegal, which later hired vehicles for them to return to Dakar on Sunday August 13, 2007.

One Ghanaian who sustained serious injuries was however detained to recuperate, leaving 18 others to return to Dakar, Senegal. The remaining number, which decided to continue with the attempt at reaching Spain, had not been heard of. Of the 18 Ghanaians that returned to Dakar some were said to be residing with friends and relatives, while others had returned to Diogue and Ghana. Daily Guide broke the news about the murder on the high seas last week after the sole survivor, Agyeman had the tragic news conveyed to the Ghana Mission through a relative in Amsterdam.

Joe Kwao, whose brother was one of those slaughtered, alerted the Ghana Embassy in The Hague which also passed on the information, sparking off investigations into the matter. In a related development, the Ghana Mission in the Spanish capital of Madrid has reported that two Ghanaian stowaways have been discovered onboard a vessel, Danica Brown, on the high seas. One of the stowaways was dead at the time he was discovered. Mustapha Idrisu a.k.a. Frank Baidu and his details were provided by the survivor who was his companion. According to the information provided by the survivor who goes by the name, Daniel Arthur, the deceased resided at the Tema barracks in the Greater Accra region.

However, it was not stated which barracks he lived in. Documents found on him included a Ghana Dock Labour Company Worker Identification numbered DK043348 (Valid until 31/12/2008) and a GPHA Security No. 0D0390 from Tema Port Security. It was discovered that the vessel boarded by the deceased, left Tema Port laden with a cargo of cotton. The Ghana Mission asked for assistance in locating the family members of the deceased so that instructions could be obtained about how to dispose of his mortal remains before the vessel arrives at its destination on a date which elapsed last Wednesday, 22 August 2007.

Source:
Daily Guide

Flood destroys farmlands in Bongo District


Bongo (U/E), Aug 29, GNA - More than 100 hectares of land cropped with maize in the Bongo District was last weekend washed away by floodwaters.

The floodwaters also destroyed 112 houses rendering more than 500 people homeless.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency in Bongo after a tour of the affected areas, Mr. David Mba, District Officer of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), said most of the farms were near one of the tributaries of the White Volta River that overflowed its banks. Mr. Mba said because communities in the district did not have fertile lands the farmers had moved close to the river to farm. Mr. Francis Asampana, Bongo District Chief Executive, said the displaced people were temporarily housed in schools and community centres.

Some of the affected people gathered around the NADMO office in Bongo and said their only hope was in help they expected from NADMO but Mr. Mba said the NADMO office had nothing to offer.

Mr. Atanga Alanga, a farmer from Feo who lost his 20-hectare maize farm, said he had nothing left except his tractor. He said the early millet crop, which is usually used as a staple food during the months before the harvest of maize and late millet, did not yield well because of the June/July draught. "We do not have anything left to depend on, we are finished", he said. Mr. Ayorka Awafu, a trader from Balungu, said his house collapsed and he had to move his family to his shop at the market.

Source:
GNA

700 people displaced by rains in Builsa District


Sandema/Wiaga (UER), Aug. 29, GNA - More than 700 people in Builsa District in the Upper East Region have been rendered homeless as a result of heavy rains in the area last week.

The victims have taken refuge in classrooms, community centres and others lodging with their relatives. These came to light when Mr Alhassan Samari, Upper East Regional Minister and his Deputy Mrs Agnes A. Chigabatia visited the affected areas.

They were accompanied by Upper East Regional Director of Highways, Feeder Roads Engineer and Heads of Departments to re-assess the situation and make recommendations to government and other organizations for assistance.

Some of the areas visited were, Sandema, Bongo, Bawku and Kulungugu Bridge, a major international bridge linking Ghana to Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali.

Mr Samari assured the victims that plans were underway to address their plight and should exercise some patience. Mrs Chigabatia who is also Member of Parliament for Builsa North purchased some relief items with her share of the MP's common fund and with assistance from the Upper East Regional Secretariat of National Disaster Mobilization Organization donated them to the victims. They included mattresses, buckets, mats, drinking cups, lanterns and used clothes.

Speaking to Ghana News Agency, most of the victims said their properties including farm produce and farmlands were washed away and finding it difficult to fend for their families. Within Bolgatanga Municipality many articulated and cargo trucks carting goods from Ghana to Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali were stranded and lined up on the main road obstructing traffic. The drivers expressed concern about the collapsed Kulungugu Bridge that was affecting their business since they could not transport their goods to the neighbouring countries.S

ource:
GNA

Akufo-Addo launches bid to lead NPP


Accra, Aug. 28, GNA - Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and NEPAD, on Tuesday launched his campaign to be the flag bearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the 2008 Elections.
"I left office in order to contest to win the NPP presidential nomination for the singular opportunity to serve the people of Ghana as their next leader.

"I come from a background where public service is considered a duty and where privilege and good fortune demand even greater commitment to the common good.

"Generations of my forefathers and relations established this rich tradition of public service, of which I am proud and which has been the source of constant inspiration," Nana Akufo-Addo declared at a news conference in Accra.

The over 2000 delegates who would be attending the Special National Delegates Congress of the NPP scheduled for December 22, this year would select a flag bearer from about 17 presidential aspirants. Nana Akufo-Addo described the Congress as "unique" in the Party's history, saying "for it will be the first time that the selection of the leader will be taking place when the Party is in power with a sitting President".

He commended the National Council of the party for working out clear modalities aimed at binding all the aspirants, leading members, activists, supporters and other actors to ensure that the Party maintained its sovereignty in the choice of a leader and does not become an appendage of the Executive.

He said: "This is the best way of safeguarding the Party's democratic culture and heritage."

The Former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Member of Parliament for the Abuakwa Constituency said after 15 years of democratic politicking under the Fourth Republican Constitution, what the country needed was a political economy that served its people through the building a strong bridge from the times when government did everything, to a future when people are entrusted with self-governance.

"We need to follow the wisdom of our forefathers; we need to mould our economic system to our particular instincts for individual freedom and social justice," he said.

He emphasised that there were no shortcuts for Ghana, saying, only hard work; creativity and a sense of enterprise could produce the accelerated economic development that would bring the basic deliverables Ghanaians deserved from their Government.

The very best of public services, including an effective, humane healthcare system, access to a secure and reliable justice system and access to quality education in Ghana.

Nana Akufo-Addo acknowledged the need to harness sufficient financial resources from Ghana and among Ghanaians in the Diaspora than we had in the past.

"We need to develop and pursue a clear policy of Ghanaian Economic Empowerment. To do so, we should not be shy of introducing policies that look, first and foremost, after our own people at every level of our economy.

"We must pursue a proactive but pragmatic agenda by picking, stimulating and increasing the number of Ghanaian winners in all sectors and build champions of industry who can compete anywhere in the world. "We do so not by turning our backs on the process of globalisation, but by making use of its rules and regulations in such a way as to enhance our capability and capacity," he stated.

He said Ghana should be bold, devise and push an agenda that got people out of the cycle of subsistence wages and informal ad hoc economic activities, into the formal sector.


Source:
GNA

Some ministers were non-performers

...we recently averted a coup attempt
Accra, Aug 29, GNA - Dr. Kwame Addo-Kufuor, one of the 17 NPP presidential aspirants on Wednesday, accused his political detractors of playing up his relations with President John Agyekum Kufuor as a cover up for their poor performance as public officers.
"Some of my competitors did not perform well as ministers of state and have nothing to show for their stewardship. This is why they are harping my blood relations with the President just to frustrate my ambition but they will not succeed," he said.

Dr. Addo-Kufuor made the accusation in response to a question as to whether he had the President's support and whether he thought he needed that to become the NPP Presidential Candidate for 2008. This was during an encounter between him and journalists as part of his bid to win the 2008 NPP Presidential slot.

His accusation was against the backdrop of Mr. Peter MacManu, NPP National Chairman's warning to aspirants to carry out their campaign with decorum and to stay away from mud slinging.

He noted that Ghana's political system was not a dynasty for people to succeed their family members as President for him to be subjected to parliamentary vetting as Minister and the fact that he had to stand elections before assuming leadership indicated that being a brother of the President had nothing to do with his political ambition.

"People talk as if when my brother became President I was a poor farmer somewhere and he picked me and made me a Minister," he stated.

Dr. Addo-Kufuor reminded Ghanaians that when he first became Member of Parliament in 1996, his brother was not President, adding that, "When me and my brother initiated and financed the Club, which eventually led to the formation of the NPP, my brother was not President".

"In my family we were brought up to be independent minded and for that matter my brother is free to decide whether to support me or not, just as I am free to decide to be President without necessarily seeking his support," he said.

He urged Ghanaians to free themselves of the mentality of hinging one's success on one's relation in a position of authority, saying, "This attitude has rendered Africa backward" Dr Addo-Kufuor said and stressed his determination to change that when given the chance in 2008. Asked what he would do differently from his brother if given the nod to become President of Ghana in January 2009, he said, "If I become President I would have oil money at my disposal so I would spend more lavishly on national development than my brother did."

On the issue of corruption and accountability, which some people claimed his brother was perceived not to have shown more commitment, Dr. Addo-Kufuor pointed out he would declare his assets and order all of his officials to do the same and persons found wanting dealt with speedily.

Dr. Addo-Kufuor credited the National Democratic Congress(NDC) for affording him the opportunity to study the health-financing situation in several countries, which prepared him to champion the National Health Insurance Scheme.

He also credited the NDC for constructing the first phase of the 37 Military Hospital project before he tackled the second phase as Minister of Defence.

Asked about the existence or otherwise of a US Military base in the country, he said there was no such thing on the soils of the country, but pointed out that America was too powerful for a small country like Ghana to try to stop them from establishing their bases around the world.

Concerning recent rumours of a coup attempt, Dr. Addo-Kufuor stated that, "I can tell you that we recently averted a coup attempt but I can't say as of now whether anybody is planning another coup in his private home".

He assured Ghanaians that under his Presidency the country would be unified, saying that during his era as Minister of Defence, none of the military hierarchy under him was from his tribe, which indicated his readiness to work with people based on merit rather than where they hailed from.

After elaborating his achievements in private life; as an MP and a Minister as well as his vision, he stated that the NPP under his brother built the foundation for Ghana's development and pointed out that he would build "the super structure" as Ghana's next President.


Source:
GNA

Borbor Fante Afahye marked at Saltpond



Saltpond (C/R), Aug. 29, GNA - Five out of the seven traditional areas forming the "Borbor Fante," have concluded their Afahye festival with a non-denominational church service at Saltpond. The festival, which was marked jointly for the first time by the Nkusukum, Anomabo, Mankessim, Abeadze Dominase and Ekumfi traditional areas was to foster unity among the people to ensure the accelerated development of the areas.

LINK  :   FESTIVALS   in   GHANA

Abora and Kwamankese traditional areas, the other members of the Borbor Fantes who according to history were led by three warriors, Obrumankoma, Odapagyan and Oson in their migration from Techiman in Brong Ahafo to their present day homes outside the Mfantseman District did not take part.

Activities during the weeklong celebration included a photo exhibition, clean-up exercises, film shows, a marathon race, a gala football, boat regatta and a durbar of the Chiefs and people of the traditional areas.

The durbar also marked the 60th anniversary of the founding of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) at Saltpond.

The busts of Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana's first President, Dr J B Danquah, the doyen of Ghana politics and Mr George Grant popularly called "Paa Grant", a prominent merchant, who played a leading roles in the country's independence struggle were unveiled at the Millers' Square.

Speaking to the GNA, Nana Ataapim Kweenu, Chief of Woraba and Chairman of the Festival Planning Committee, said the site had been acquired by the District Assembly for the busts of the other members of the "Big Six" who were in fore front of the political struggle and other important personalities in the development of the area.

Five prominent citizens of the area including Mr Ato Essuman, a Member of the Council of State and Chief Director of the Ministry of Education, Science and Sports and Professor Francis K Allotey, a renowned Scientist, were honoured with the naming streets after them. The others were the late Professor P A V Ansah, an Educationist and Journalist, Dr Andrews Agyin Davis, a medical practitioners and Nana Baah VI, a traditional ruler.

Source:
GNA

E.T Mensah expresses worry about child trafficking


New Ningo (GAR), Aug. 29, GNA - Mr Enoch Teye Mensah, Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo-Prampram, has expressed concern about the upsurge of child trafficking across the borders and called for an effective campaign to stem it.

Speaking at New Ningo to commemorate the Annual Homowo Festival of the chiefs and people in the area, Mr Mensah tasked officials of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union to foster closer links with the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit of the Ghana Police Service in order to fight the menace.

He said the problem was a national issue, which required the involvement of all Ghanaians to help reduce it to the barest minimum. Mr James Doku-Paafio, a private businessman, cautioned the youth to stay away from mob actions and other social vices.

Source:
GNA

Police investigates mob assault on military personnel


Kumasi, Aug. 29, GNA- The Ashanti Regional Police Command has instituted full-scale investigations into the mob assault on a military personnel at Krofofrom in the Kumasi metropolis on Saturday. It has to this end called on anybody who has any information on the incident to assist the police in arresting the culprits of the grisly act or report promptly to the office of the Regional Commander in Kumasi for necessary action.

This was contained in a release issued by the Public Relations outfit of the Command signed by Inspector Mohammed Tanko in Kumasi on Tuesday. The statement condemned the alleged action by the mob, especially on a military team that allegedly went to Krofofrom in the Kumasi Metropolis on that particular night on a mission of arresting a suspect who had dressed in military uniform.

It said this was in view of how some unscrupulous persons in the past dressed in either police or military uniform and paraded themselves as such and succeeded in robbing or extorting money and other valuables from members of the public.

The command gave the assurance that security agencies would not take the law into their hands and harass innocent people in the area but would conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and bring the perpetrators to book.

"Anyone with information that will assist the police to arrest the culprits of such grisly act should report promptly to the office of the Regional Commander in Kumasi for necessary action", the statement said. In another development, the police said the military person in question, name withheld, is not dead but on admission at a hospital and responding to treatment.

Source:
GNA

CPP needs fresh, bold and decisive leaders - Prof Akosa


Kumasi, Aug. 29, GNA - Professor Agyeman Badu Akosa, an aspiring flag bearer of the Convention People's Party (CPP) has stated that the party needed a fresh, bold and decisive person to lead it to win the 2008 elections.

He pointed out that he was in the presidential race to bring freshness, honesty, integrity and respect into the country's politics. Addressing constituency executives of the party in Kumasi as part of his campaign tour of the Ashanti Region on Tuesday, Professor Akosa, said the CPP was built on the principles of love, respect and service to the people.

He said the nation's politics had over the years been characterized by arrogance and greed on the part of politicians and said it was time the people asserted themselves and demanded accountability from people who sought political power from them.

Professor Akosa said the CPP was a unique political party, which had a home grown ideology that cared for the people and respected divergent views, adding that, CPP was poised to take up the mantle of leadership of the country again and restore it to its past glory. He bemoaned the lack of a clear-cut youth policy in the country and said when elected, the interest of the youth would be his topmost priority.

Professor Akosa acknowledged the challenges facing the party and said he would use the first six months of his campaign to reorganize the party's structures at the grassroots levels and provide the necessary logistics and financial support to enable the party make significant inroads in the 2008 elections.

Alhaji Iddrisu Egala, an aspiring chairman of the party, said Ghanaians were yearning for the CPP to come back and urged the constituency executives to re-organise themselves to win the elections. Mr Osei Tutu Bonsu, Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party appealed to the constituency executives to rededicate themselves and work hard to win the 2008 elections.

Source:
GNA

Busia's death remembered


Wenchi, Aug 29, GNA - Bishop Charles Kwasi Konadu of Wenchi Diocese of the Methodist Church, has stressed the need for an attitudinal change among Ghanaians if the country was to make any meaningful headway in development.

"If we do not change and continue to exhibit the current behaviours and attitudes, whatever the country's past leaders did and fought for will come to nought", he said.

Bishop Konadu was preaching at the 29th memorial and thanksgiving service for the late Dr Kofi Abrefa Busia, Prime Minister of the Second Republic, at his residency at Wenchi.

The Centre for African Art and Civilization, an NGO, organised the ceremony with support from Wenchi Methodist Church, the district assembly and the Busia Foundation.

"We are not poor because we have almost all natural resources with which we can develop our nation to an appreciable level", the Bishop said and urged all to abide by ethics and to have a sense of responsibility.

He condemned the current disrespect for laws, immoral behaviours, dishonesty and disrespect for others' rights, which he said, had largely attributed to the nation's current slow pace in development. "Let us be God-fearing, be selfless and sacrifice for the nation's accelerated development like Dr Busia and others did so that our children can also pick such traits and grow up to become responsible leaders", Bishop Konadu said.

Hajia Bintu Ibrahim Farizana, Wenchi District Chief Executive, expressed gratitude for the honour done to "one of the country's champions of democracy" and urged all to emulate the exploits of the country's past heroes. She said the district assembly had decided to sponsor students in second cycle schools to undertake excursions to tourist centres including the residence of Dr Busia to learn more about the country and its past. She said the assembly would rehabilitate the former Premier's residence to become a tourist site and more structures would be added to make the premises to befit his status in Ghana's political history.

Source:
GNA

300 poultry farmers die of Bird flu / the world over

Ho, Aug. 29, GNA - At least 312 poultry farmers the world over were reported to have contracted Avian Influenza, the deadly bird flu since it was first detected, Dr J.A. Awuni, a Veterinary Officer has said on Wednesday.

He said 60 per cent of the infected farmers have died and the rest could not be cured completely because they did not adhere to bio-security measures.

Dr Awuni made the disclosure at a one-day workshop for poultry farmers in the Volta region at Ho.

The workshop was organized by the National Poultry Development Board on the theme: "Farm Bio-security in the prevention and control of the highly pathogenic avian influenza: The farmer's perspective". He said the disease was very aggressive and contagious and could survive up to four days at 22 degrees Celsius, 35 days at four degrees Celsius in poultry manure, 30 days at zero degree Celsius in water and 23 days in carcasses at room temperature.

Dr Awuni said there was no potent vaccine currently available for the disease and advised poultry farmers to put measures in place to prevent it from getting into their farms.

He said some of the recommended measures were fencing of farms, separation of poultry and premises from sources of infection, restricting the movement of people and vehicles in and out of susceptible areas and not accepting back to the farm live poultry taken out for sale.

Mr Keneth Quartey, Managing Director of Sydals Farms Limited, advised farmers to step up surveillance and report promptly any detection of the disease to prevent its spread. He told them that government do not pay for birds that died of the disease but rather those destroyed by the authorities and advised the farmers not to destroy the affected birds themselves.

Mr Quartey said the authorities could decide to destroy healthy birds that were within what he called the "kill zone".

Source:
GNA

Ban on fishing in lagoon lifted to herald Fetu Afahye


Cape Coast, Aug. 29, GNA- Traditional Priests of Oguaa area, on Tuesday performed rituals to lift a month-long ban on fishing in the Fosu lagoon, to herald the celebration of this year's 'Fetu Afahye' of the chiefs and people of the area.

Singing and dancing to traditional songs, the priests and priestesses, arrived in a procession at the banks of the lagoon, where they offered libation to the gods.

This was followed by the firing of musketry and the burying of a calabash filled with some concoctions in the lagoon, after which the 'Omanhene's' net was cast three times to signify the lifting of the ban. Three crabs, were caught when the net was first cast, and one of the priestesses, explained that it signified hope and prosperity for the future.

According to her, the last time crabs were caught in such rituals was ten years ago. The Oguaahene, Osabarima Kwesi Atta II, was among those who witnessed the ceremony.

Earlier, nine groups located at the various beaches in the township, competed in a regatta to precede the lifting of the ban, sponsored by Continental Christian Traders (CCT) Ltd, based in Accra. The 'Nkum and Ola' groups tied up for the first position and won cash prizes of GH=A2100 each, 'Abrofo' group, second, with GH=A250, while the remaining six groups were presented with consolation prizes of GH=A2 15 each.

In an address, Nana Kodwo Addae II, Chief of Abura and Chairman of the 'Afahye' planning committee, reiterated the need for the people to keep the municipality clean to portray its status as an important tourist attraction.

Source:
GNA

GNPC 'rejects' 800m barrel oil discovery


The Executive Director of Ghana National Petroleum Corporation, Moses Boateng has told The Statesman that his outfit will soon begin assessing and evaluating the true quantity of oil discovered by London-based Tullow oil and Cosmos oil at the Deep water Tano block near Cape Three Points in the Western Region.

Moses Boateng was reacting to assertions making the rounds that Ghana could earn up to $560 billion from the latest discovery.

He noted that neither he nor his outfit could say with any degree of certainty the quantity of crude oil at the Tano block.

He added that the previous announcement of a possible 400 million and subsequent 800 million barrels discovery could not be officially substantiated now.

"It is true that a world class oil field has been found, but we have not assessed the capacity or quantity yet, hence our readiness to do pragmatic assessment from September to December 2007 to determine the quantity available and the value.”

Some energy experts have predicted that oil discovered in Ghana could generate close to $ 560 billion, but the MD of GNPC said the amount could either be higher or lower, “depending on the quantity of oil that would be available after our findings.”

Moses Boateng noted that GNPC presently holds 10% shares in the exploration project and also serve as the supervisory agency. “We can decide to increase our shareholding capacity whenever possible, but we have not decided on that yet.”

The GNPC manager disclosed that Tullow and Cosmos oil companies, also serving as strategic investors, would be given the go ahead to develop the exploration site after December 2007.

In another development, the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Kwadwo Baah-Wiredu has told The Statesman that Government's ability and willingness to jointly fund the extraction of the found oil would depend on the terms of a yet-to-be-signed agreement between the parties, and until then, any discussion on extraction costs to the state would be premature. He disclosed that about $700,000 is spent daily by the oil companies in their operations.

Some energy experts have counseled caution in the celebrations accompanying the discovery of oil, arguing that it would be improper to compare the transformations that have taken place in other countries to what is likely to happen here.

African countries own 8% of world oil reserves, according to experts. An estimated $200bn in revenues will flow into African government treasuries over the next 10 years as new oilfields open up throughout the Gulf of Guinea.

Oil will bring the largest influx of revenue in the continent's history, and more than 10 times the amount western donors give each year in aid.

Five countries dominate Africa's upstream oil production. Together they account for 85% of the continent's oil production and are, in order of decreasing output, Nigeria, Libya, Algeria, Egypt and Angola.

Other oil producing countries are Gabon, Congo, Cameroon, Tunisia, Equatorial Guinea, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Cote d'Ivoire.

Nigeria is estimated to have 3.62 billion barrels of proven oil reserves as of January 2007. The government there plans to expand proven reserves to 40 billion barrels by 2010. Majority of the reserves are found along the Niger delta in southern Nigeria .

Nigeria has a total production capacity of 3 million barrels per day, including 2 million barrels onshore and 1 million offshore. Nigeria is the largest oil producer in Africa, 11th largest producer in the world.

Libya has oil reserves estimated at 39 billion barrels. However, experts say the Arab country has the potential for further oil discovery, with only 25% of potential 'oil land' by the oil companies due to sanctions and stringent fiscal terms imposed on foreign oil companies.

Source:
Statesman

Building occupied by Osu Traditional Council demolished


Accra, Aug. 29, GNA - A building at the Ako Adjei Overpass in Accra used by the Osu Traditional Council, one of the two factions in the protracted Osu chieftaincy dispute, was on Wednesday pulled down by unknown persons.

Mr Julius Lawson, who was one of five people in the building before the demolition, told GNA that some people arrived at the compound early in the morning, marched them out and seized their cell phones, which were, however, later returned to them.

He said a pay loader with registration number GE 3674 W brought in an earth moving Caterpillar, which then started pulling down the building without allowing them to take out furniture, air conditioners and other items. He said the police protected those who were pulling down the building.

Mr. Lawson said they would mobilise hundreds of youths to march to Accra Metropolitan Assembly to demand who was contesting the ownership of the building and go to court to reclaim the land. Some chiefs of Osu who came to the scene were left dumbfounded when they saw the demolition.

Source:
GNA

National Service personnel in court for possessing fake currency


Ho, Aug. 29, GNA - A National Service personnel working with the Ho branch of the SG-SSB has appeared before a circuit court in Ho for possessing fake dollar notes.

Godsway Ahiabu pleaded guilty and has been remanded for sentence on September 11.

Prosecuting, Police Chief Inspector Peter Insiedu told the Court presided over by Mr Daniel Mensah that Ahiabu on August 15 this year, went to the Barclays Bank in Ho in possession of 9,000 US fake dollar notes.

He said Ahiabu having arrived at the bank, went ahead to change 5,000 of the fake dollars for GH=A24,600.

Inspector Insiedu said Ahiabu later changed the rest 4,000 dollars for GH=A23,700 at the bank the same day successfully. He said on August 16, the Bank however detected the fake dollars and traced Ahiabu and got him arrested. Inspector Insiedu said in his caution statement, Ahiabu admitted the offence but mentioned other accomplices who he said were on the run.

Source:
GNA

Ghana vs Brazil: A final in all but name

Just as in every competition, several contenders jostle for position at the starting line but there can be only one winner. At the Gwangyang Soccer Only Field this Wednesday evening, two pedigree teams will be hoping to avoid falling by the wayside. Ghana and Brazil, respectively double and triple winners of the world's premier U-17 football trophy, arrived in Korea as strong contenders to reach the Final. While it has been plain sailing so far for the Auriverde, who booked an early passage to the Round of 16 with two convincing displays, a 7-0 drubbing of New Zealand and a 6-1 thumping of Korea DPR, Ghana have made a meal of their qualification. The Black Starlets waited until the dying stages of their final group match against Colombia to secure their knockout berth, Ishamel Yartey grabbing the winner on 84 minutes.

The game
Ghana - Brazil, Gwangyang, 29 August, 20:00 (local time)
The stakes
When the referee blows to signal the end of this match, we can expect to see joyous celebrations from the winning team, and glum expressions around the rest of the stadium. Not just on the faces of the defeated team, but also on the faces of the thousands of fans who appreciate the finer side of the beautiful game. Ghana and Brazil lit up the first round with their cultured, attack-minded play. Nevertheless, the losers of this game will be sent packing much earlier than they would have wished, while the winners can expect a quarter-final date with either Peru or Tajikistan.
The players
Last-minute qualification came at a price for Ghana, who must play this Round-of-16 match without the suspended Enoch Adu and Philip Boampong. As for Brazil, they are at full strength.
The past
The two teams are familiar foes at the FIFA U-17 World Cup, having already met four times in the knockout phases of the tournament. Ghana have the upper hand with two victories to Brazil's one, the other match ending in a draw after normal time. In 1995, the Black Starlets laid claim to their second world title by beating Brazil in the Final. The South Americans waited two years to gain their revenge, usurping top spot from the Africans when the two met in the climax of the following edition. More recently, the nations' senior teams went toe-to-toe in the second round of the 2006 FIFA World Cup GermanyTM. On that occasion, a 3-0 defeat spelt the end of the road for the Black Stars in their first-ever appearance at the very highest level.
The words
"We played Brazil at the Eight Nations Tournament and came away with a draw. We aren't afraid of them because we have what it takes to beat them." Sellas Tetteh, Ghana head coach
"The manner of our defeat against England hasn't dented our confidence: we're going to win this World Cup. We've prepared very thoroughly to ensure we reach the Final, and we're going to achieve our goal." Lucho Nizzo, Brazil head coach

Source:
FIFA

Ghanaians celebrate Starlets victory

Ho, (V/R) Aug 29, GNA - People from all walks of life poured onto the streets of Ho Municipality with various paraphernalia depicting the flag of Ghana to celebrate the 1-0 sweet victory of the Starlet over the much fancied Brazilian side in the World Cup U-17 Soccer Tournament in South Korea.

Superlative comments were poured on the Black Starlets as the celebrants, made up of mostly the youth, danced and yelled in celebration.

Many of them however cursed and blamed the referee for what they considered to be his obvious unfair and biased handling of the game. Tim Dzamboe, Volta Regional Editor of the Daily Graphic, told the a psychological flaw of his perception of the Black Starlets as the less-fancied side.

The obviously elated Journalist said with the Starlets advance into the quarter-finals, their chances of winning the tournament have become more brighter.

Mr George Amegbletor, Chief Officer of the Prison Service predicted an all-African final between Ghana's Black Starlets and the Eaglets of Nigeria.

He also condemned the referee, saying apart from being harsh on the Starlets, his addition of six minutes as time added on was spurious.

A roasted plantain seller, popularly known as Aunty Mary near the offices of the Ghana News Agency described the only goal of the game as "divine" and that it was an atonement for the bad treatment meted out to the Starlets by the referee.

At some offices, pockets of workers were seen busily doing post-match reviews with glee.

In a related development, soccer fanatics also poured out into the principal streets of Hohoe under the tropical scorching weather, soon after the Polish referee blasted his whistle for the end of hostilities. The elated fans jubilated for the feat of the Starlets over their Brazilian counterparts as they stunned them with a lone goal victory at the FIFA World U-17 in South Korea.

The fans who had to contend with listening to commentary on their radio sets after watching only 35 minutes of the first half due to a break in the television linkage on GTV, breathed a sigh of relief, when the game finally ended, courtesy commentary by the Volta Star FM. The fans said the victory was a remarkable achievement on the part of the Black Starlets who held the Brazilians to their own samba game and outscoring them with even 10 of the boys.

The soccer enthusiasts took the opportunity to appeal to Metro and TV Africa to urgently consider extending their networks to the northern part of the Volta Region for variety viewing for all.

Mr Tony Abibu, a newspaper vendor accused GTV for often disappointing the area when it mattered most, adding that their corporate slogan of "Station with the nationwide coverage" continued to be dented and called for redefinition of their operations. He said the Starlets played a totally transformed game and even winning on the ball possession statistics each half of the game.

Mr A. Agbesinyale, a soccer fan said determination does not know biases and that even with the referee playing six minutes of added on time could not salvage Brazil from redeeming the goal.

Source:
GNA

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• 28.08.2007

Soldier lynched in Kumasi


The otherwise boisterous suburb of Krofofrom (New Tafo) in Kumasi went dead last Friday around midnight, when some notorious youth in the area assisted by their counterparts from Asawase, another suburb of the city, combined forces to lynch a soldier at the main traffic lights.

Afraid of a possible reprisal from the colleagues of the deceased, drinking spot operators, food and other vendors quickly packed their goods and left for home, leaving the place dead silent.

Not even the attempt by the soldier to flee could save him from the angry youth who were determined to exhibit their machismo on the soldier.

Eventually, they succeeded in subjecting him to beatings at different locations, all around the traffic lights area, and finally dumped his unconscious body at a place called 'Columbia', where drug addicts and hardened criminals hang around.

According to eyewitnesses, the soldier was in a yellow and white Opel Astra caravan taxi, whose registration number they could not pick, with two other colleagues when they spotted a young man wearing military uniform (camouflage).

They ordered the young man to remove the uniform, which they believed he was wearing unlawfully.

The eyewitnesses said the soldiers managed to get the uniform off the body of the young man and pushed him into the taxi in which they were travelling, ostensibly to take him along for questioning as to how he came by the uniform.

Their encounter with the young man, the eyewitnesses continued, created a scene and it attracted lots of people to the area.

It was at that point that the youth, some of who were around when it all started, got incensed and resisted the soldiers.

They eventually released the boy from his military captors and went ahead to engage the soldiers in a heated argument. Tempers rose high as the enraged youth broke the rear screen of the taxi.

It was at the height of the tension, they said, that the other two soldiers allegedly sped off leaving their colleague behind at the mercy of the angry youth.

"At a point during the beatings, they raised him high up and hit him hard on the ground," another eyewitness told the Daily Graphic.

The Graphic said its enquiries at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) revealed that no soldier had been brought to the hospital. The Public Relations Officer of KATH, Mr Kwame Frimpong, said the records at the hospital's mortuary, Intensive Care Unit, and the Casualty Ward did not have any information on the soldier.

Around 11 a.m. on Sunday morning, when the Daily Graphic went to the headquarters of the 2nd Infantry Brigade to find out whether they had received reports of an alleged killing of one of their colleagues, there was nobody to comment after almost 45 minutes of waiting at the gate.

Source:
Daily Graphic

Obuasi leads in road accidents in Ashanti



Obuasi, Aug 28, GNA- The Obuasi municipal is leading in road accidents in the Ashanti Region with a total of 50 cases with 15 deaths recorded since the beginning of this year. Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Virtue Agordekpe, in-charge of the Obuasi Motor and Transport Unit (MTTU), who announced this at an education programme for drivers and vehicle owners at Obuasi, pointed out that most of the accidents, which occur within the township were preventable.

She said drivers had to develop self-confidence whilst driving to help reduce accidents in the municipality. ASP Agordekpe warned against over speeding especially when driving through the town, adding that, most of the drivers were reckless on the road.

"Your speed limit should be 30 kilometres per hour whilst driving in town", she warned and asked tro-tro and taxi drivers operating in the municipality to exercise absolute care before overtaking other vehicles. She stressed on the need for drivers to respect the zebra crossings, saying, "zebra crossings are places where motorists have to stop to allow pedestrians to cross the road safely".

Mr Benjamin K. Boafo, Obuasi Municipal Chairman of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), appealed to car owners to ensure that their vehicles were roadworthy at all times. He called for discipline amongst the drivers and urged them to accord passengers with great respect.

Source:
GNA

Flood causes deaths and damage in Upper East Region


Bolgatanga, Aug. 28, GNA - Five people died and others sustained injuries when buildings collapsed during a heavy rainfall in some parts of Upper East Region last weekend, Mr Alhassan Samari, Upper East Regional Minister said on Tuesday.

Three persons died in Builsa District while two others died in Bawku West District where the floods rose up to window level in most homes, causing mud buildings to collapse destroying stored foodstuffs. Speaking to the Press in Bolgatanga after a tour of the affected areas, Mr Samari said the displaced had taken refuge in schools and with relatives who lived in concrete houses.

Commenting on the effect of the rains on roads, he said the bad situation had become worse as motorable laterite roads had been washed away and some bridges damaged.

"Roads like the Bawku-Binduri, Bolgatanga-Nyariga, Dacheo-Bolgatanga, Navrongo-Sandema have been rendered impassable, forcing vehicles to discharge their passengers and goods to be carried across the other side on bicycles, donkeys and canoes", he said. Mr Samari said exports and imports such as cattle and other livestock, onion, timber products, salt, and cola nuts, had been temporarily suspended and articulated trucks loaded with some of these exports and imports stranded at Kulungugu as the main steel bridge on the Bawku-Kulungugu road, an international route which links Ghana to Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, collapsed as a result of eroded concrete pillars that supported it.

Mr Samari appealed to the National Disaster Management Office (NADMO) and NGOs in the relief sector to provide temporary relief in the form of tents, food and household utensils. He said government would assist in mobilising the needed resources to rehabilitate roads and bridges to enable foodstuffs to be carted from the rural areas to marketing centres. Mr Samari urged contractors who had been awarded road projects and other infrastructure to double up their efforts and provide satisfactory services to avoid the present situation in future. The Regional Minister toured Bawku East, Bawku West and Bongo Districts.

He was accompanied by Upper East Regional Engineers of Department of Feeder Roads, Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) and the Regional Directors of Ministry of Food and Agriculture and NADMO. The Region has been experiencing rains daily for the past two weeks and buildings and farms in low lying areas submerged in water.

Source:
GNA

Police PRO suspects media of hidden agenda

… in the fight against armed robbery

The police administration is accusing some media houses of what it says is a deliberate attempt to create panic and fear among the public about a resurgence of armed robbery in some parts of the country.

ASP Kwesi Ofori, Acting Director of the Police PR Unit told the dailyEXPRESS that some media houses have cultivated the habit of over dramatizing robbery cases anytime they the issue comes up for discussion on their networks.

Mr. Ofori who did not mention any particular radio station maintained during the interview that the police have been very particular about an agenda setting by some media houses where a single report of an incident of crime is handled in such a manner that ends up creating fear and insecurity among the populace.

The Police spokesman argued that a single criminal case will become the very issue that most media houses, especially the electronic ones will devote lot of airtime and newspaper space creating lots of doubts in the minds of the public about the commitment of the police in combating crime.

Recent cases of instant justice meted out to some suspected criminals in parts of the country have heightened perceptions that police are not on top of their game when it comes to dealing with crime.

ASP Kwesi Ofori however says mob or instant justice is not an indication that the police have lost the fight to combat crime in the country.

“In every growing economy you might experience crime of this nature but the police and security services have done a lot” he said in defence.

He however acknowledged isolated cases of crime which he agrees that the police should have tackled.

Current statistics on crime in Ghana put the figure as of 2005 at 1,399 cases nationwide. Out of this figure, the Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions recorded over 77 percent, while the rest were recorded in the rest of the eight regions.

ASP Ofori explained that since then, residential and highway robberies have been reduced considerable over the past months. He however said that what is on the increase is cyber crime.

He confirmed the establishment of a unit by the police to deal with cyber crimes, and expressed confidence that it will soon be a thing of the past.

ASP Ofori also mentioned that traffic accidents have reduced, adding that the police are doing all that they can to make sure the record is improved from time to time.

He added that the police, like any other institution, is faced with challenges but will still continue to uphold their loyalty to the good people of this country.

Source:
dailyEXPRESS

God warns "prophet" to caution Kufuor

... warns against false prophets
... God will soon pour his anger on Ghana, if

The leader of Nyame Nti Prayer and Herbal Healing Camp, Prophet Job Kofi Anim, says the increasing spate of false prophets could pose great danger for Ghana if the nation does not take steps to stop that situation.

Speaking to pressmen at his prayer camp at Gomoa Dominase on Monday, Prophet Anim said, God has warned him through a vision to caution President John Agyekum Kufuor and Ghanaians to be more prayerful as a way of waging war against false prophets in Ghana, lest there is danger awaiting the country in its forward march to progress.

According to him, God will soon pour his anger on Ghana if the trend continues as it is today, hence the need for President Kufuor to put in place effective measures to halt the activities of false prophets.

He cautioned the government to stand firm and institute laws that would hold men of God in check in their day-to-day activities to help eliminate and expose false prophets and prophetesses in the country.

Prophet Kofi Anim admitted that though it would not be easy for President Kufuor to do that, he urged the President not to hesitate in taking such an action, since the danger awaiting the country from his inaction is very terrible.

He also urged Ghanaians to change their attitudes towards seeking prophetic revelations all the time and look to God for direction.

Prophet Anim expressed the view that many false prophets are now in the country looking for easy ways to amass wealth instead of preaching God's word to the listening public, hence the need for the citizenry to be careful not to fall victims to those false prophets.

He attributed the increasing rate of crime and murder to some activities of false prophets, which he said, have provoked God's anger, which is threatening to split the nation into pieces if effective measures are not put in place to check the trend.

Prophet Kofi Anim stressed that the danger awaiting the country, if not forestalled, could have some negative impact on the 2008 general elections.

He then called on heads of churches to come together as one entity to fight the activities of false prophets, who are damaging the image of the true men of God.

He touched on the indiscipline that has taken root among the youth, and called on the youth to work hard to promote the image of Ghana.

Source:
The Independent

ROPAL to rollout in stages


The Electoral Commission (EC) says it will ask for money in next year's budget for the implementation of the Representation of the People's Amendment Law (ROPAL).

In response to the question as to whether the EC would request money to implement the law, the Chairman of the commission, Dr Kwadwo Afari-Gyan, told the Daily Graphic that "ROPAL is in stages and to the extent that we are in the preparatory stages, yes."

He, however, insisted that the money to be requested for was to fund the preparations towards implementing the law but would not discuss details of what he called "the preparatory stages".

"I am not prepared to discuss the details of ROPAL because it raises all sorts of sentiments in the public. We have a lot of work to do and we are about it. When we are ready we will let the public know," Dr Afari-Gyan is quoted by the Graphic as saying.

On a recent pastoral letter by the Christian Council, urging the government to provide adequate funding and also asking the EC to "come out with what it needs", Dr Afari-Gyan said it was a suggestion that had been well noted.

He said budget preparations for the EC had already started, stressing that the processes were long and the list tall.

Unwilling to be drawn again into divulging details of their requests, Dr. Afari-Djan said "We are gradually preparing."

Other sources close to the EC told the Graphic that the preparatory work for implementing ROPAL would include study tours to countries implementing similar laws for best practices in implementing the law and the continued search for the consensus of political parties, among other things.

They said for the successful implementation of the law, there was the need for consensus building among all the political parties in the country.

"This is especially so when, at the last Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting, some political parties walked out," the sources said.

A Deputy Chairman of the EC in charge of Finance and Administration, Mr David Kanga, had earlier explained that steps being taken to implement the law included consultations with political parties and traditional authorities.

ROPAL was passed in 2006 to enfranchise Ghanaians living abroad in line with Article 42 of the Constitution, but amid protestations from a section of the public.

Article 42 says "every citizen of Ghana, of 18 years of age or above and of a sound mind has the right to vote and is entitled to be registered as a voter for the purposes of public elections and referenda".

While some were of the view that the law had to be passed and implemented soon, others said the previous law did not bar any Ghanaian from voting and that the country did not have the resources or the capacity to carry the franchise to Ghanaians living abroad.

The pastoral letter of the Christian Council also asked the government to create the environment for a successful election in 2008 and a level playing field for all aspiring presidential candidates.

Source:
Daily Graphic

NPP Must Now Apologise For Bui Dam Delay - CPP


Ladies and Gentlemen, members of the media, the President of our country Mr. John Agyekum Kufuor on the 25th August cut the sod to mark the start of work on the Bui Hydro-Electric Dam Project at Bui in the Brong Ahafo Region, at an estimated cost of $622-million.

The commencement of this long overdue project is certainly very welcome by CPP members and indeed all Ghanaians because the Bui Dam Project formed part of the CPP’s blueprint for the development of Ghana, and Ghanaians are aware that this is a project which should have been completed many years ago to protect their energy needs.

President Kufuor said during the sod cutting ceremony that there was a need "to look ahead to the next 30 years, to forestall the current energy shortage problems that currently confront us, and in anticipation of increased population and widespread industrialization, it is hoped that planning ahead for increased energy supply will become part of the national culture". Energy Minister, Mr. Joseph Kofi Adda, described the Project as a 'dream that has become a reality'.

What the President and his energy minister did not tell us however is why the CPP dream has taken so long to implement, and why the NPP government had failed to plan ahead for the energy needs of Ghana.

The CPP was certainly aware of the need to plan ahead and had estimated that between 1965 and 1967 the rate of load growth for commercial, industrial, domestic and other purposes would rise by 15%per annum and between 1967 and 1977 by 11% per annum.

The CPP had thus moved to put plans in place to ensure that the development of other sources of hydro-power was implemented by 1970.

In 1965 Russian Engineers were already working on the Bui Dam project and had built Bui camp with a cluster of bungalows , a clinic, a meteorological station, an irrigated farm, hydrological measurement points, offices, and workshops with enormous collection of samples of tubular drilled rocks demonstrating CPP commitment to the next phase of meeting future power needs. After the treason of February 1966 the Russians working on the Bui project left Ghana within a week of the coup.

During the NDC ‘s tenure of office an international consortium headed by Halliburton Brown & Root was in October 1999 mandated under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Ghana, acting through the Volta River Authority (VRA), to develop the Bui project.

A Bui camp was again put in place, but on assuming power in January 2001, the NPP government ended the Halliburton Brown & Root consortium involvement in Bui.

Current members of this government have thus had opportunity on at least two occasions in the last 40 years to implement the Bui Dam project and ensure that Ghana continued to enjoy a seamless and uninterrupted supply of energy in Ghana as envisaged and planed by the CPP Government.

Many years have been wasted and the foresight and strategic planning of the CPP does not seem to have been displayed by subsequent governments leading to the serious energy crisis at the moment, a crisis which has undermined our efforts at development even further, caused many businesses to close and thousands to loose their jobs, some loss of life and raised the cost of energy usage in every household.

We believe that now that the Bui Dam project has been finally started the NPP government owes Ghana an apology for the 40 year delay in the implementation of the project.

Mr. J.H. Mensah a senior member of the ruling party who was at the sod cutting ceremony was the Minister of Finance in the Progress Party government – the first civilian government following the CPP in 1969.

Ghanaians have repeatedly asked in recent years what happened to the Bui Dam project under the PP government of which the President, Mr J.H Mensah and other NPP members were a part of.

As Ghanaians we have every right to hold our government to account on their decisions and omissions and thus on behalf of Ghanaians we seek a long overdue apology from the NPP government for taking nearly 7 years in power to announce an energy policy; failure to predict and plan for the energy needs of the country, and for its failure or several occasions to implement the Bui Dam project until now when the country is on its knees in crisis.

It will be 2012 before the Dam project will be completed; in the interim the Government continues to spend $20 to $30million a month on emergency energy measures.

The CPP government then and future CPP governments understand the developmental needs of Ghana and how to plan for them. That is the standard that Ghana deserves and Ghanaians want that standard set by the CPP to be met by all subsequent governments. The NPP government has fallen short of that standard and the least they can do is apologise, and also prepare to hand over in 2009 when the country finally elects what it deserves – A CPP government.

Long Live Ghana – Ghana Deserves Better

Communications Directorate – www.cppuk.org   /   cppuk@hotmail.com   /  cppyouth@gmail.com

Source:
Communications Directorate – www.cppuk.org

Aspirant urges CPP to set code of conduct


Accra, Aug. 28, GNA - Dr Kwaku Osafo, an aspiring Flag bearer of the Convention Peoples Party (CPP) on Tuesday urged the party's Central Committee to immediately come out with a code of conduct for all the aspirants to ensure sanity in their campaign. "In view of the highly sensitive nature of our third National Delegates Congress slated tentatively for September ending, it is necessary to draw the attention of national executives to creating a level playing field and control the campaign of the aspirants to ensure civility in the process leading to congress," Dr Osafo told the Ghana News Agency in an interview in Accra.

The Aspirant, who is currently on a campaign tour in the north noted that the code would ensure that all candidates had the right and freedom to put forward their views to the delegates without hindrance. He called on the other contestants to publicly condemn any form of political violence or intimidation, irrespective of who originated it, especially the circulation of a purported official list of CPP presidential candidates and national executives for the September Congress.

"We must avoid the use of inflammatory language, actions, images or manifestations that incite violence, hatred, contempt or intimidation against any of the aspirants as we all belong to one family," Dr Osafo stated.

He urged the delegates to discard the alleged list, listen to all the aspirants to elect a candidate not only for CPP but the one capable of leading the party to victory in 2008.

Dr Osafo urged his supporters and party activists to resist the temptation of indulging in violent activities or intimidation as a way of demonstrating strength or supremacy.

"Electoral supremacy for Elections 2008 would be determined on the intellectual platform, not on physic and intimidation," the CPP aspirant noted.

He said his tour across the country had portrayed him as the most popular and dynamic presidential aspirant the CPP needed to lead the party to Elections 2008.

"I have demonstrated my considerable political experience to the delegates across the country and I believe I have what it takes to win the next general elections if elected as the presidential candidate of the CPP, he said.

Dr Osafo urged CPP supporters to be on their guard, close their ranks and intensify their campaign to enable the party to win the next elections, saying: "The present socio-economic hardships facing Ghanaians call for a change in the leadership of the country". He also asked the supporters to be wary of the other aspirants who would try to influence them with money.

Source:
GNA

Chief urge government to concentrate school feeding programme in rural areas


Apinamang (E/R), Aug 28, GNA - The Chief of Apinamang, Osabarima Oware Asare Pinkro in the Kwaebibrem District, has appealed to government to concentrate the school feeding programme in rural areas rather than in the urban areas.

He questioned why the programme was not focussing on rural areas where poverty levels are high and many parents had to push their wards to farms or to support them in the market on market days to be able to raise resources for the family.

The chief, who was addressing a grand durbar of the people at Apinamang to climax the Akobredwa festival, said he was not happy that only two schools were benefiting from the school-feeding programme in the area.

He also called on the administrators of the school-feeding programme to ensure that the children were learning to become useful citizens in future and not in the school just for the food. Nana Pinkro urged parents to support the government in realizing its goal by providing their children with learning materials and the environment for them to have at least basic education. The Deputy Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Ofosu Asamoah, expressed regret that many people in the area had not registered with the National Health Insurance Scheme.

He said the cutting of the sod for the construction of the Bui Dam by President John Agyekum Kufuor to help solve the energy crisis facing the country was an indication of government seriousness in solving the energy crisis facing the country.

Source:
GNA

Win more people for the CPP-Constituency executives told


Awudome-Tsito (V/R), Aug. 28, GNA - Mr Vincent Noagbedzi, Volta Regional Organizer of the Convention Peoples Party (CPP) has urged the party's constituency executives to rise up to the task of winning more people into their fold. He observed that the party was becoming more attractive "day by day" hence the need for "all hands to be on deck to open the party's doors to everyone, irrespective of the individual's political lineage". Mr Noagbedzi said this when he swore in a 13-member executive of the Ho West Constituency to run affairs of the party in the next four years.

He tasked party faithful to sell the CPP to all true Nkrumaists and especially the youth to ensure victory in the 2008 general election. "Let them know that CPP is the only political party that can ensure equitable distribution of the nation's wealth and the need for the youth and women to embrace the CPP", Mr Noagbedzi said. He warned against wrangling among executives and members and said it was time the party got united more than ever for a common purpose of winning the 2008 election. Members of the newly elected constituency executives included Mr C Y F Agbedu, Chairman, Mr Foster Segbe, 1st Vice Chairman, Mr Gabriel Zor, 2nd Vice Chairman, Mr Kosi Ntow, Secretary and Mr F Y Dodofoli, Assistant Secretary.

Others were Mr Emmanuel Amegboe, Organiser, Mr Arizona Dake, Assistant Organiser, Madam Doris Adzovor, Women Organiser, Madam Lucy Asase, Assistant Women Organiser and Madam Florence Ekesi, Treasurer. The rest were Mr Michael Ganyo, Youth Organiser, Mr Ernest Ohene, Assistant Youth Organiser and Mr Mawuli Bigodza, Education Secretary. Meanwhile, the Ketu North Constituency of the CPP has also conducted its conference to elect a new executive committee to steer the affairs of the party for four years Mr John Kofi Alornyo, businessman, was elected Chairman, with Emmanuel Worname, educationist, as secretary and Moses Adzogble, also educationist as the Organiser. Mrs Alice Amanyo was elected Women Organiser with Mathew Afaglo a businessman and Kassah Hubert, educationist, Treasurer and Youth organizer respectively.

Source:
GNA

Ghana-India ties, warm and friendly - Prasad


Accra, Aug. 28, GNA - The Indian High Commissioner to Ghana, Mr Rajesh N. Prasad, on Monday lauded the relations between his country and Ghana describing them as traditionally warm and friendly. The High Commissioner, speaking at a cultural performance by Kathak Cultural Troupe of India at the National Theatre in Accra, said cultural interaction between the two countries had played a significant role in the strengthening of these ties.

"We thought it would be most appropriate if a cultural troupe from India could visit Ghana and perform in some of the cities during Ghana's 50th anniversary of its Independence celebrations."

The event was organised by the High Commission and the India Council of Cultural Relations in collaboration with the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Culture in support of the Ghana@50 celebrations. Mr Prasad said visit of the cultural troupe was organised under the aegis of the Cultural Exchange Programme between Ghana and India and facilitated at the Indian end by the India Council of Cultural Relations.

Mr Sampson Kwaku Boafo, Minister of State, Chieftaincy and Culture, expressed appreciation at the collaboration with the Indian government. "The India community is highly commended for the immense support for cultural relations between Ghana and India and for helping to nurture the good seeds sowed by our two great leaders, Jawaharlal Nehru and Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah."

Mr Boafo noted that the cultural exchange between the two countries was renewed in 2002 during the visit of President John Agyekum Kuffuor to India.

The Kathak Dance Troupe led by a renowned Kathak dancer, Ms Shikha Khare has been in the country for the past five days and had earlier on performed in Kumasi and Sunyani.

The Ghana Dance Company also performed to display Ghanaian music and dance to their Indian folks and other foreigners.

Source:
GNA

Toothpaste seller remanded for stabbing student

Kumasi, Aug. 28, GNA - A circuit court in Kumasi has remanded a toothpaste seller for stabbing a student at her back. Kwame Adom, 32, pleaded guilty with explanation that he was drunk and that the victim had provoked him and pleaded with the court to deal leniently with him. He will re-appear on September 7.

Police Chief Inspector Wilfred Salia told the court presided over by Mr Richard Mac Kogyapwah that both the accused person and the complainant's mother were traders at the Kumasi Central Market where the student, who was on vacation was supporting her mother to sell shoes. He said on August 10 around 10:30 hours, the victim who was on her usual rounds was attacked by the suspect without any provocation. The prosecution said in an ensuing struggle, Adom stabbed the victim in the back.

Chief Inspector Salia said the victim who became unconscious was taken to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) where she was admitted for treatment.

Source:
GNA

Tears of 11year old girl saves father from imprisonment


Ho, Aug. 28, GNA-An eleven-year old girl (name withheld) wept uncontrollably at a Ho Circuit Court on Tuesday pleading the court to free his father who was brought before it for stealing. Many among the audience, including prosecuting police officers and others with cases at the court, visibly touched, openly displayed sympathy for the girl by wiping away tears.

Tchimou Janvier Djoman, 32, a Music Teacher in Togo pleaded guilty to stealing a Video Compact Disc (VCD) with its remote control valued at GHC 30 belonging to Pleasant Dreams Hotel at Kpetoe. The accused himself, pleading for mitigation said he could not fathom what would become of his daughter, who police sources said stayed at the counter-back and was fed by the police while his father was locked up in cell.

Mr. Emmanuel Siammeh, Presiding Judge put Djoman on a 12-month bond to be of good behaviour, in default of which, the accused would serve six months in prison.

He observed that the charge of stealing was somewhat mitigated by the retrieval of the stolen items.

Police Inpsector Sampson Kwame Agboado, prosecuting, told the Court that Djoman checked into the hotel with his daughter on August 16, this year for seven days at a total cost of GHc70. He said on the fifth day, Djoman who had paid only GHc20 part payment sneaked out with his daughter and never returned. Inspector Agboado said it was later detected that Djoman left with a VCD MP3 player belonging to the hotel. He said all attempts to trace Djoman were unsuccessful until he was spotted at Akatsi on August 23, this year where he was arrested and handed over to Kpetoe Police. Inspector Agboado said Djoman admitted the offence when questioned and was charged accordingly.

Source:
GNA

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• 27.08.2007

CPP Holds The Key - Akosa


Prof. Agyeman Badu Akosa, a presidential hopeful has stated that only a Convention People's Party (CPP) government can save Ghana and thus reawaken it from its economic slumber.

To this end, he called on delegates to the upcoming CPP congress to give him the mandate to lead the party in order to form the next government to better the economic fortunes of the country.

Addressing regional and constituency executives as well as members of the party at Sekondi in the Western region on Wednesday, Prof. Akosa noted that both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) did not make the expected impact on the economy.

He observed that sadly, the two governments had sold strategic assets of Ghana to individuals or foreigners.

He mentioned the various factories and companies sold out during the NDC era and those like Ghana Water Company Limited, which the NPP had given out to foreigners and the on-going Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) saga.

"Everything is being sold out to foreigners; which will take us back to what the late Nkrumah termed as neo-colonialism. Then where lies our independence, Comrades?" Prof. Akosa queried .

He cautioned the delegates to be wary of aspiring presidential candidates who would influence them with money, reminding them that the late Nkrumah used his wisdom, tact, love, commitment and meticulous organizational acumen to build the CPP.

Prof. Akosa, who is also the immediate past Director General of the Ghana Health Service wondered why, after the overthrow of the CPP, subsequent governments seemed not to address the nagging problems of shelter, food, trade and total well-being of the Ghanaian.

"Let us be desperate, sacrificial and use our resourcefulness to work unconditionally for the CPP to save Ghana from poverty, strife, disease and economic slavery," he said amid loud cheers from the teeming supporters.

The CPP presidential hopeful reminded Ghanaians of the unbeatable track record of the CPP government under the late President Kwame Nkrumah and said the delegates should vote for a humble, marketable, committed and a true CPP person, who was capable of outstripping presidential candidates of the other parties.

He was of the strong belief that the CPP had every chance of forming the next government and asked the people to pray, sacrifice and apply their organizational skills to win more members, while exercising tolerance at all times.

"With God on our side, coupled with team spirit and proper planning, we shall overcome every obstacle. Ours is democratic centralism, where the poor, the marginalized, the rich are all welcome. In the CPP, there is nothing like tribalism or ethnicity, for we are all comrades and the party is supreme," Prof. Akosa concluded.

In his entourage were Dr. Jojo Crentsil, Messrs. Ekow Acquah, Kwame Juntua, Jojo Grant and Kwabena Bomfeh as well as some prominent engineers, lawyers, doctors and politicians.

Source:
Daily Guide

60% of old currency notes replaced - BoG


Accra, Aug. 25, GNA - The Bank of Ghana (BoG) on Monday said 60 per cent of the old currency had been withdrawn from circulation and replaced with the new currency.

Dr Paul Acquah, Governor of the Central Bank, answering questions from the media during a briefing of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) in Accra after its deliberations last week, said at the start of the exercise in July, about 9.1 trillion cedis was withdrawn and replaced with 5.45 trillion Ghana Cedis.

"This leaves an outstanding of about 3.6 trillion cedis yet to be replaced," he added.

It is expected that the outstanding old currency would be completely withdrawn by December, 2007, the date set for the end of the main redenomination exercise.

The BoG embarked on the redenomination exercise in July 2007 to reduce the burden of accounting and cutting the risk of carrying large sums of physical cash.

Dr Acquah also announced that the Central Bank had divested its interest in the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) to the Financial Investment Trust, a body that takes into custody government shares for onward investment either to the public or a strategic investor. "Therefore in principle, the divestiture has taken place and the Central Bank has moved on with the process," he explained. He said the idea was to ensure that the BoG, as the regulator of the banking industry, was not seen as a player as well.

Dr Acquah said the issue of divestiture and/or acquisition of any Bank by another had to do with the services that the Bank had to offer. Asked what the response should be for the ADB situation, Dr Acquah said: "Whatever action would be taken should be done with the focus that the agricultural sector will be enhanced and the agricultural focus should be maintained in the Bank.

"Any bank or institution that buys into ADB and dilutes the original intent of the Bank should not be entertained. "Our main focus as a regulator is to ensure that a real financial industry is developed in the country. Any new Bank that comes into Ghana should be an internationally active Bank as a major criterion and we would consider a Bank with this kind of reputation."

Merchant Bank Ghana Limited, Robo Bank of Netherlands and Stanbic Bank of South Africa have expressed interest in taking up the 48 per cent shares that the BoG is disposing of in ADB. Dr Acquah said if the right thing was done within a competitive atmosphere shareholders would have value for money with guaranteed quality service.

Source:
GNA

ISODEC joins debate on sale of BOG shares in ADB


Accra, Aug. 27, GNA - The Integrated Social Development Centre (ISODEC), an organisation that promotes rights and accountability, has waded into the debate on sale of the Central Bank's shares in Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) calling for a second look at the issues at stake.

"There are compelling reasons for government and the Bank of Ghana to take a second look at the formulae for the off-loading of the Bank of Ghana controlling shares of 48 per cent in ADB," it said in a statement signed in Accra on Monday.

"ISODEC is convinced that the national interest will be greatly compromised if ADB, the fourth leading bank in Ghana, controlling 60 per cent of all lending to the agricultural sector and whose performance has remained strong in spite of its continued support to the rather high risk agricultural sector is sold to a so-called strategic investor without due consideration of proposed alternative arrangements that keep the bank in the hands of Ghanaians."

It described the debate as healthy and helpful for the entrenchment of a vibrant democratic culture saying it was always better and prudent to weigh a particular decision against available alternatives, discuss them openly and frankly with the people on whose behalf the decision was being made, before committing to it.

The public has been debating a proposal by Stanbic Bank of South Africa to buy the controlling BOG shares in ADB with the workers, Trades Union Congress, some political parties and civil society organisations leading the fight against the offer It referred to the arguments of Mr Joseph Henry Mensah, an economist and former Senior Minister, supporting the sale of the shares to Stanbic saying they indicated that the government believed "the Stanbic deal will do the trick".

ISODEC asked whether offloading the shares to a single strategic investor was the optimum way to inject new capital into ADB and whether the new investor would remain committed to the mandate and mission of the bank.

"We find this fixation with privatisation of everything good or bad, including strategic assets, a rather sad commentary on our appreciation of the exigencies of our development aspirations," it said. "In the view of ISODEC, offloading the BOG shares in ADB on the Ghana Stock Exchange best serves the national interest. It will certainly be an added boost to trading, while placing the bank firmly in the hands of Ghanaians, whose decisions at annual general meetings are more likely to be guided by a combination of the national interest and profitability."

ISODEC said it was of the view that the financial sector was a major and an important vestige of the national sovereignty that must not be handed over to "rent-seeking investors".

It asked why Stanbic could not expand its own operations in Ghana and inject the needed capital to support agriculture to compliment what ADB was doing and provide competition.

Source:
GNA

Yet Another Lynching


An attempt by three armed robbers to snatch a taxi from its driver at Dansoman in Accra early yesterday led to the lynching of a young man suspected by a mob to be among the robbers.

Bronze Attamah, said to be in his early 20s met his untimely death at the Kitkat Park, Dansoman Estate; when the cab driver raised the alarm and some residents of the area caught up with him and meted out instant justice.

His supposed accomplices escaped.

An eye witness said that the gang stopped the cabbie at about 2 am at the Kitkat area and ordered him to step out of the car and surrender his car keys.

However, the driver sped off to a safe place and raised an alarm, waking up some residents in the area who came to his aid.

The robbers took to their heels but the mob caught up with Attamah and beat him to death.

When contacted, Chief Inspector E.K Danso of the Dansoman Police Station, confirmed the incident and stated that the body had been deposited at the Police Hospital mortuary for autopsy pending further investigations.

He said he was informed about the incident later in the morning

Later, a woman, Mavis Attamah who claimed to be a sister of the deceased also reported the matter to the police and helped in identifying the body.

Source:
Ghanaian Times

Stop showing disrespect to our Veep

...You Insult the Veep You Insult the Prez

Mr. George Ayisi-Boateng, one of the most loyal stalwarts and defenders of the NPP in the party's World Bank capital of Kumasi has appealed to NPP presidential aspirants and their supporters to stop showing disrespect to "our sitting Vice President".

Mr. Ayisi-Boateng has probably defended NPP government policies and personalities on radio programmes in Kumasi than many a sector minister or MCE or DCE.

Speaking to ADM last week in an exclusive telephone interview from his base in Kumasi, he said he had observed with "increasing disquiet and disappointment the way in which some of these aspirants and their supporters are targeting the VP."

Without mentioning names, he said "let who the cap fits, wear it."

He said he had never hidden his support for the VP "from the beginning, because my conscience and instincts tell me that's the right thing to do and he is the right man at the right time to lead the NPP into another victory. God did not let the President Kufuor choose him as Vice President for nothing."

He said because Alhaji Aliu Mahama is "our sitting Vice President, it does not matter whether he is also a presidential aspirant or not, that office he is still occupying deserves our respect."

He said in Ghana's constitutional arrangement, Alhaji Aliu Mahama is Ghana's No 2 all the way to January 7 2009 when he moves to the No. 1 position or makes way for someone else. This entitles him to all the courtesies attached to his office and "above all, the respect and loyalty of all those who say they are genuine NPP supporters."

It is an NPP government, he told ADM, that is currently running the affairs of Ghana. On the pinnacle of the government, he said, sits President Kufuor and "right after him is Vice President Aliu Mahama; any person, whether in the NPP or NDC who shows disrespect to Aliu is also extending it to Kufuor."

He said "when we talk of the Presidency, we are referring to President Kufuor, Vice President Aliu Mahama and all the officials under them."

By the same token, he explained, "in the legislature, it is Mr. Sekyi-Hughes, the Speaker of Parliament and his officers and in the Judiciary, Mrs. Georgina Wood, the Chief Justice and her officers."

Mr. Ayisi-Boateng said he is particularly "saddened by the fact that Aliu is minding his own business, he has not insulted any aspirant, he does not use foul language, he is a man of a few words and yet they are attacking him so unfairly and viciously." He asked which of them is perfect. "If we all mean to descend into the gutter, no one will remain standing?

He said he is however not surprised because "they must know in their heart of hearts that he is the man to beat, he is the obvious choice of the people, he cuts across the political divide, the man who the NPP, NDC, PNC, CPP and the others would be comfortable with as a president, so they are trying to destroy his chances, not realizing that it is the NPP's chances they are also diminishing." Showing a degree of exasperation, he said, "why cut your nose to spite your face?"

He called on the NPP leadership and elders to immediately call to order all "these people who by their blind ambition want to undermine the presidency."

He asked: "Where is the Code of Ethics they said they have instituted? Who enforces it?"

Mr. Ayisi-Boateng, an Ashanti man, has not hidden his support for the Vice President. He has always held to the belief that if the NPP rallies behind the Vice President instead of looking for excuses to dump him, it would set a new image for the often regarded Akanistic party and easily win Election 2008. He told ADM that he hopes the aspirants would not degenerate into "gutter politics, in which case we could as well start preparing to hand over the keys of the new Flagstaff House presidential complex to the NDC."

Source:
Accra Mail

 BoG Manager Worried About Payment in Coins


Space FM,Sunyani, August 27- The Brong-Ahafo Regional Manager of the Bank of Ghana,(BoG) Mr Eugene Atikpo, has observed that paying customers with large quantities of coins by some bank cashiers is defeating the main purpose for re-denomination of the cedi.

The regional BoG boss who said this in Sunynai, therefore appealed to the public to find a peaceful and polite means to address the issue with these cashiers or inform the bank managers to handle the matter.

He said he does not understand why some cashiers behave that way because money is supposed to be convenient and portable.

Mr Atikpo added that any good cashier with proper understanding of economics would not behave this way.

He expressed appreciation for the co-operation and understanding in the region towards the exercise describing it "as a wonderful experience" as compared to other regions.

He explained that the exercise is to step up public confidence in the banks and urged the public to maintain a good rapport with the banks to enable them access the new currency since the old currency seizes to be a legal tender by December 31 but could be changed at the banks.

Source:
Space FM,Sunyani

Obsolete cultural practices impeding devt

...of children in Upper East

Wa, Aug.26, GNA - Mr. George Hikah Benson, Upper West Regional Minister, has noted that female genital mutilation, early marriages, widowhood rites, defilement, child trafficking and child labour continued to impede the development of children in the region. He called on traditional rulers in the region to abolish all obsolete cultures that partly gave rise to these negative practices.

Mr. Benson was speaking at the inauguration of the Rights of Children's Clubs for the Wa Municipality, Wa East and Wa West Districts, under the theme: "The Role of Children's Rights in Development," in Wa on Saturday.

The Miidan Educational Trust, a child rights non-governmental organisation (NGO), organised the event, which was sponsored by Plan Ghana, a humanitarian child-centred community development NGO. Mr. Benson appealed to the people to ensure that children had access to good health and better education for their development. He urged individuals and organisations working for children to incorporate child rights principles into their programmes. Mr. Benson said the way society treated children reflected its sense of responsibility, justice and commitment to the future generation.

He appealed to child rights advocates to inculcate into children the sense of self-esteem and patriotism and to sensitise them on the economic and social choices available to them.

Mr. Samuel Paulos, Country Director of Plan Ghana, said the NGO had taken a bold step to integrate child rights issues into its programmes for the Northern sector of the country.

He said some children in the country had been denied access to education, health, potable water and the opportunity to participate in decision-making.

Mr. Paulos announced the NGO had sensitised about 70 per cent of families within the Sissala East and Sissala West Districts on the rights and responsibilities of children.

He expressed regret that many children in those areas were only seen but not heard of and said the NGO had worked hard to increase awareness among parents and community members about child rights. Mr. Paulos said: "This remarkable achievement had made the NGO to extend its operations to the Wa Municipality, Wa East and Wa West Districts and the project would cost the NGO GH=A2 250,000 over 18 months period."

He said the NGO would also award scholarships to brilliant but needy children, ensure good health, water and sanitary practices, work towards poverty reduction, environmental management and build infrastructure for basic schools all expected to cost GH=A2 530,000. Madam Otiko Djaba, Chief Executive of Miidan Education Trust, said poor children needed support to enable them to realise their dreams. She announced that the NGO was working towards the alleviation of obstacles and challenges facing such children by giving them equal opportunities and training to enable them to develop their talents.

Source:
GNA

 Aflao based musician dies in motor accident

Denu, Aug. 27, GNA - An Aflao based musician, died on the spot in a motor accident near Denu on the Aflao-Accra highway on Sunday minutes before he was to launch a new album as part of a musical night at Hotel Makavo, Aflao.

Police sources at Aflao and Denu have confirmed the accident but remained reluctant to give full details. Frank Nero, 40, was said to be on his way to Hotel Makavo, for the launch of the album, "Sankofa", when a passenger vehicle crushed his motorbike at Laklevikope at about 1900 hours. News of the accident and the death of Nero disrupted the programme for about two-hours. Local sources told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that Nero was travelling from Agbozume to Aflao for the programme when the accident occurred.

The Denu Police said the body had been deposited at the Dzodze Saint Anthony's Hospital mortuary. Nero's other album, all in Ewe include: "Nye Nutor Paa," and "Dzogbeve".

Meanwhile, radio stations in Lome, Togo and other parts of the Volta Region continue to play Nero's compositions with comments in his honour and memory, while dealers in musical albums at Aflao said many individuals were rushing for his albums.

Source:
GNA

 Plan Ghana constructs dams in Sissala districts


Wa, Aug. 27, GNA- Eight communities in the Sissala East and West Districts have been provided with dams by Plan Ghana, a humanitarian development NGO operating in the Upper West Region to sustain their livelihoods.

The communities are Jeffisi, Zini, Kopulima, Pulima, Boti, Nimoro, Nyantie and Tiwii.

The people are using the dams as their source of drinking water and for livestock rearing as well as irrigation to help increase their incomes and also their nutrition.

Mr. Samuel Paulos Country Director of Plan Ghana made this known during a courtesy call on the Upper West Regional Minister, Mr. George Hikah Benson at his office on Sunday.

The projects cost the NGO 3,000 Ghana Cedis (30 billion cedis). Mr. Paulos said the NGO was into ensuring food security, the provision of water and educational facilities as well as children's rights and appealed to the beneficiaries to take good care of the dams. He noted that the proper usage of the dams would encourage the donors to continue supporting the NGO to extend its operations to other districts in the Region.

On children's rights, he said the NGO is envisaging that children would be given the platform to air their views freely to influence national policy towards them.

"It would also enable them to utilize their energies to champion their rights", he said.

Mr. Benson commended the NGO for the humanitarian services it was rendering to the people in the Region and gave the assurance that the Regional Coordinating Council would continue to support it in its operations.

The Regional Minister admitted that widowhood rites and the rights of children in the two Sissala Districts had improved through the activities of the NGO.

He appealed to traditional and community leaders to reform the widowhood rites in the region; describing it as the worst form of practice as it discriminates against women and children and impeded their total development.

Source:
GNA

„… in Braunschweig the police arrested two men

Braunschweig in Lower Saxony: „… in Braunschweig the police arrested two men, who had flogged a Ghanaer. One of them is because of right slogans police well-known, both was drunk during the act, divided the police with… “here might probably hardly still another doubt about the fact exist that it concerns an encroachment with right-wing extremist background. Finally is one of them because of right slogans police well-known. However at this statement for like stupidly one will actually keep clear the German medium public seems. Still more clearly however will in the continuation of these Kleinstmeldung in that is not excluded „… it could also drug business background of the conflict be… “. So, so, then naturally immediately perfectly different light throws on African attacked of bad „right-wing extremists the “, who completely obviously earns himself with unfair methods a small Zubrot.

Source :

http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=de&u=http://de.altermedia.info/general/fka-rechte-verprugeln-okoschlampen-neue-horror-meldungen-rechtsextremer-ubergriffe-280707_10939.html&sa=X&oi=translate&resnum=9&ct=result&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dueberfall%2Bauf%2Bghanaer%2Bin%2BBraunschweig%26hl%3Den%26rlz%3D1T4GZHZ_en___GB236

Braunschweig in Niedersachsen: „…In Braunschweig nahm die Polizei zwei Männer fest, die einen Ghanaer verprügelt hatten. Einer von ihnen ist wegen rechter Parolen polizeibekannt, beide waren während der Tat betrunken, teilte die Polizei mit…“ Hier dürfte wohl kaum noch ein Zweifel daran bestehen, dass es sich um einen Übergriff mit rechtsextremen Hintergrund handelt. Schließlich ist ja einer von ihnen wegen rechten Parolen polizeibekannt. Allein an dieser Aussage wird deutlich für wie dumm man eigentlich das deutsche Medienpublikum zu halten scheint. Noch deutlicher hingegen wird das in der Fortsetzung dieser Kleinstmeldung in der nicht ausgeschlossen wird „…Es könnten auch Drogengeschäfte Hintergrund des Konflikts sein…“. So, so, das wirft dann natürlich sogleich ein vollkommen anderes Licht auf den von bösen „Rechtsradikalen“ angegriffenen Afrikaner, der sich ganz offenbar mit unlauteren Methoden ein kleines Zubrot verdient.

Source :

http://de.altermedia.info/general/fka-rechte-verprugeln-okoschlampen-neue-horror-meldungen-rechtsextremer-ubergriffe-280707_10939.html

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