President Tinubu Approves Waiver, introduced “No Work, No Pay” for Resident Doctors
With the approval of the waiver by President Ahmed Tinubu, the withheld salaries will now be paid to the resident doctors. This decision was made in recognition of the importance of the healthcare sector and the need to ensure the well-being of both the doctors and the patients. The President’s decision to invoke the principle of the presidential prerogative of mercy demonstrates his understanding of the critical role that healthcare professionals play in the society and his commitment to resolving the issues that led to the strike in the first place. By waiving the “No Work, No Pay” order, President Tinubu is acknowledging the challenges faced by the resident doctors and their legitimate concerns. This decision also reflects the President’s compassion and empathy towards the doctors and their families who may have faced financial difficulties during the strike period. It shows that he recognizes the sacrifices made by the doctors in their fight for better working conditions and improved healthcare services. Furthermore, by approving the waiver, President Tinubu is sending a message of support to the healthcare sector as a whole. He understands the crucial role that doctors and other healthcare professionals play in ensuring the well-being of the citizens and the overall development of the nation. Overall, the President’s decision to invoke the principle of the presidential prerogative of mercy in this case demonstrates his commitment to the welfare of the healthcare sector and his determination to address the issues that led to the strike. It is a positive step towards resolving the grievances of the resident doctors and ensuring the provision of quality healthcare services to the Nigerian people.This DoU will outline the terms and conditions for future negotiations and agreements between the government and the Resident Doctors and other health sector unions. President Tinubu emphasized the importance of finding a long-term solution to the issues raised by the Resident Doctors and other health sector unions. He acknowledged their crucial role in the healthcare system and expressed his commitment to ensuring their welfare and addressing their concerns President Tinubu recognizes the importance of addressing the concerns raised by the Resident Doctors and other health sector unions. He acknowledges their crucial role in the healthcare system and is committed to ensuring their welfare. To that end, he has directed the grant of an exceptional last waiver of the “No Work, No Pay” Order on Resident Doctors, allowing them to receive the salaries that were previously withheld during the strike action. However, this waiver comes with a mandatory requirement. The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment must secure a Document of Understanding (DoU) that establishes this exceptional waiver as the last one to be granted to the National Association of Resident Doctors and all other Health Sector Unions. This DoU will outline the terms and conditions for future negotiations and agreements between the government and the Resident Doctors and other health sector unions. President Tinubu emphasizes the need to find a long-term solution to the issues raised by the Resident Doctors and other health sector unions. He is committed to addressing their concerns and ensuring their welfare. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Speaker Bagbin describes Minority leader ambulance trial as “persecution”.
Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, has criticized the ongoing trial of Minority Leader Dr Cassiel Ato Forson in the ambulance case, stating that it is a form of “persecution”. Bagbin expressed his concerns about the trial during his visit to the family of the late former Majority Leader, Felix Kwasi Owusu-Adjapong. While he highlighted the importance of upholding the rule of law, Bagbin argued that the trial against Dr Ato Forson is more like a “gamble” rather than a fair legal process. He emphasized the need for an unbiased and impartial legal system that allows the law to take its course. Bagbin remarked that although he supports the rule of law, the prosecution in this case appears to be prioritizing winning or losing over ensuring a just legal process. The trial involves Dr Ato Forson, Dr Sylvester Anemana, and businessman Richard Jakpa, who are being accused in relation to the importation of 30 ambulances. Former Finance Minister Seth Terkper testified in court, stating that he had authorized Dr Ato Forson to request Letters of Credit for securing the supply of the ambulances. On the hand, Speaker Bagbin urged the police administration to reconsider their decision and find an alternative location for the Fixing The Country Movement’s protest. Additionally, Mr Bagbin emphasized the need for peaceful and constructive dialogue between citizens and the government to address the concerns raised by the Fixing The Country Movement. He stated that protests and demonstrations are important tools for citizens to express their grievances and hold the government accountable, but they should be conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner. Mr Bagbin called on the government to listen to the concerns of the Fixing The Country Movement and engage in meaningful dialogue to address the issues raised. He emphasized the importance of finding common ground and working together to find solutions that benefit all citizens. However, Speaker Bagbin expressed his hope that the police administration would reconsider their decision and find a more suitable location for the Fixing The Country Movement’s protest. He urged all parties involved to prioritize peaceful dialogue and constructive engagement in order to address the concerns of the citizens effectively. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Barari DV Ghana Limited, granted 15-year Mining Lease to commence the construction and mining of lithium
Barari DV Ghana Limited, a subsidiary of Atlantic Lithium Limited, has been awarded a Mining Lease by the government for a period of fifteen (15) years. This lease allows the company to undertake the construction and extraction of lithium at the Ewoyaa site in the Mfantseman Municipality, located in the Central Region of Ghana. Notably, the Mining Lease includes revised terms aimed at maximizing the benefits derived from this valuable mineral for the country. These terms comprise an increased royalty rate, involvement of the State and Ghanaian entities, and the promotion of value addition to the mined mineral. The government’s decision to grant the Mining Lease follows the completion of comprehensive prospecting and feasibility studies conducted by the company. This was followed by a series of negotiations between the government and Barari DV Ghana Limited. The lease encompasses an area of approximately 42.63 square kilometres, conferring upon the company the exclusive right to engage in lithium and associated mineral extraction, while adhering to the country’s mining laws. Lithium plays a crucial role in the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries, which are being widely promoted as an alternative to fossil fuels in the ongoing battle against climate change. The combustion of fossil fuels in internal combustion engines is a major contributor to the climate crisis. In response, global leaders are advocating for a transition to green energy, aiming to progressively reduce and eventually eliminate carbon emissions. Several countries have already enacted legislation to phase out vehicles that rely on fossil fuels. This has given rise to a burgeoning market for the battery industry and the minerals necessary for battery production, often referred to as green minerals or critical minerals. Currently, African countries that extract lithium tend to export the mineral in its raw form. In 2017, Barari Ltd. initiated exploration efforts for lithium in the country and identified significant deposits of high-grade lithium in commercial quantities in Ewoyaa. Geological investigations have also revealed lithium deposits across various regions of the country, spanning from the south to the north, primarily around Cape Coast, Kumasi, Sunyani, Bole, and Wa. However, the country has yet to commence mining operations for this mineral. During a brief ceremony to formalize the signing of a Mining Lease for Barari DV Ltd., Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, emphasized that the government has taken a different approach in handling this particular mineral compared to others. As a result, it was crucial to establish a special policy for the exploitation and management of this mineral before granting any Mining Lease. After extensive consultations, the Cabinet approved a policy specifically addressing the exploitation and management of green minerals, including lithium. The Mining Lease awarded to the company incorporates the policy that has been approved by Parliament. The Minister clarified that this lease differs from the standard Mining Lease, as it includes the mutually agreed-upon terms between the government and the company, based on the Cabinet-approved policy. Mr. Jinapor highlighted that the agreed-upon terms ensure that the Ghanaian government and its citizens receive greater value from the mining of this mineral. In terms of specific details, he noted that the royalty rate has been increased from the standard five percent (5%) to ten percent (10%), and the State’s free carried interest in the mining operation has been increased from ten percent (10%) to thirteen percent (13%). The mining operation will see an increase in Government ownership, with an additional 6% stake acquired through the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF). The Company’s parent entity listed on the Australian and London Stocks Exchange will also have a 3.06% ownership by the Government. To promote local participation, the Company will be required to list on the Ghana Stock Exchange, allowing Ghanaian entities and individuals to invest in the business. Furthermore, the Company has committed to contributing 1% of its revenue to a Community Development Fund, which will support the development of communities affected by their operations. Additionally, the Company aims to establish a chemical plant for lithium processing. If unable to do so, the Company will supply its lithium to any third-party chemical plant in the country. These measures aim to generate more job opportunities and promote overall development in the mining communities and Ghana as a whole. The Government acknowledges the impact of mining-on-mining communities and is determined to guarantee that these communities, as well as Ghanaians who legally own these minerals, reap their benefits. It urges the company to strictly adhere to the mining laws and the agreed-upon terms with the Government while focusing on responsible, sustainable, and environmentally friendly mining practices. Mr. Niel Herbert, the Executive Chairman of Atlantic Lithium Limited, expressed gratitude to the Minister and the Government for their collaboration in achieving this significant milestone. He emphasized the importance of the Ewoyaa project to the company and its willingness to collaborate with the Government to ensure the responsible exploitation of this mineral for the betterment of Ghanaians. He further assured compliance with Ghana’s laws and commitment to maintaining a safe mining environment. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Pusiga: Contractor set to lock up 3-unit block and put it FOR SALE as a result of govt inability to …
Fuseini Amadu Yamdella, a well-known local contractor from Anes El-yak Company Limited in the Bawku area, has expressed his frustration at the government’s failure to pay him for a construction project. As a result, he has decided to put a ‘FOR SALE’ tag on a 3-unit classroom block and KVIP (Public Toilet) that he built in Boya Natinga, located in the Pusiga District of the Upper East Region. Despite considerable borrowing on his part to complete the classroom building, the government has not taken any action to compensate him. This has led to Mr. Amadu’s decision to lock up the completed school building, which is currently being used by teachers and students. According to Mr. Amadu, the government has not fulfilled its obligation to pay him for the construction of the 3-unit classroom block, which was part of the 1 million dollars per constituency initiative. Although he handed over the project to the Northern Development Authority (NDA) in 2020, three months after its completion, the government has still not paid him the agreed contract sum. “Contractor suppliers have been on his neck for the money i owe them and they believes the assembly has paid me for the project”. Mr. Amadu told Apexnewsgh.com The contractor who is dissatisfied with the situation has issued a one-week ultimatum to the Assembly, NDA, and government, demanding payment. Should they fail to comply, he plans to shut down the school on October 23, 2023. Upon contacting the District Chief Executive (DCE) Abdulai Zuberu, he stated that it is incorrect for Mr. Fuseini Amadu Yamdella to attempt to lock the school building. He explained that Mr. Yamdella’s name was not listed as the main contractor in the contract document signed with the Northern Development Authority (NDA). The DCE also pointed out that the initial payment was made to the original contractor, Anes El-yak Company Limited. However, he assured that efforts are underway at the central level to settle the outstanding debt. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Breaking News: Lawyer Anthony Akoto Ampaw is dead
Akoto Ampaw, who previously served as the lead lawyer defending President Akufo-Addo’s victory in the 2020 Presidential elections at the Supreme Court, has unfortunately passed away. In addition to his role as a legal advocate, Ampaw was believed to be a strong candidate for the position of special prosecutor after the President approved the Office of Special Prosecutor Bill. Lawyer Anthony Ampaw Esq, renowned for his extensive experience in Ghanaian law and his passionate activism for human rights, is well-known as a veteran lawyer in the country. More soon Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com