Ghana Parliament Passes Anti-Gay Bill, Speaker Emphasizes Importance of Preserving African Values
The Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Alban S.K. Bagbin, has spoken out following the passage of an anti-gay bill by Parliament on February 28, 2024, expressing his firm belief that the argument to legalize LGBT rights was fundamentally unsustainable. In his statement, Bagbin emphasized the need to preserve Africa’s cultural values and traditions, stating that the continent has already suffered too much loss due to historical factors like slave trade and colonialism. He called for safeguarding the remnants of African cultures and restoring what has been lost. Expressing gratitude to the Members of Parliament for upholding the wishes of Ghanaians, Bagbin underlined the importance of protecting the sanctity of marriage and family values. He also assured that Parliament would ensure that President Nana Akufo-Addo assents to the bill to bring closure to the matter. The anti-gay bill criminalizes LGBTQI+ activities and prohibits their promotion, advocacy, and funding. Individuals engaged in such activities could face jail terms ranging from six months to three years, while promoters and sponsors could be sentenced to three to five years. However, the proposed bill has raised concerns from international bodies such as the United States and UNAIDS, warning Ghana that it may face setbacks in its development efforts if the bill becomes law. The US Ambassador highlighted the potential negative impact on Ghana’s economy and international reputation, while UNAIDS cautioned that the bill would exacerbate hate and jeopardize the country’s development success. The United States further expressed deep concern about the passage of the anti-LGBTQI+ bill, warning that it would undermine public health, media, and civic. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
France Star Paul Pogba Banned From Football After Doping Scandal
French football star Paul Pogba has been handed a four-year ban from football by Italy’s anti-doping tribunal after testing positive for testosterone last August, it has been reported. The 30-year-old World Cup winner, who currently plays for club Juventus, had been provisionally suspended in September after the positive test results emerged. A spokesman for Juventus confirmed that they had received notification of the ban against Pogba from the tribunal. The exact details of the ruling are still unclear as Italy’s anti-doping body has not yet responded to requests for further information. The ban stems from a positive doping test following Juventus’s opening match of the Italian Serie A season against Udinese on August 20, 2022. Despite being a substitute for the match, Pogba tested positive for testosterone. A later B sample confirmed the presence of the banned substance, resulting in his provisional suspension. Representatives for Pogba have claimed that the presence of testosterone came from a food supplement prescribed by a doctor he had consulted in the United States. Pogba, who returned to Juventus in 2022 after a six-year stint at Manchester United, was a key player in the France team that won the World Cup in Russia in 2018, scoring in the final against Croatia. The positive doping test comes after a difficult first season back at Juventus for Pogba, during which he made just 10 appearances and faced off-field issues, including an extortion attempt against him. The ban is a major blow to the footballer, who will now have to navigate through these serious repercussions in his career. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
Boston City Declares March 2 as “Burna Boy Day” in Recognition of Nigerian Artiste’s Achievements
The City of Boston, Massachusetts, USA, has officially declared March 2 as “Burna Boy Day” in recognition of the achievements of Nigerian artiste, Burna Boy. According to a letter signed by Ruthzee Louijeune, the Boston City Councilor, the designation of a specific day to honor Burna Boy is in acknowledgment of his outstanding performances and advocacy work. The letter stated that Burna Boy, born and raised in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, has become a global cultural icon and has played a significant role in introducing and popularizing afrobeats music to the entire world. His rise to prominence has been seen as a pivotal shift in mainstream narratives that have often marginalized African voices and overlooked the richness of the continent’s cultural heritage. The announcement of “Burna Boy Day” is also a reflection of Boston’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating culture and diversity, given the city’s multicultural landscape and Nigerian population. The Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer has used his platform to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and advocate for their recognition and rights. Through his music and advocacy work, Burna Boy has been a strong advocate for social justice, equity, and representation. This recognition from the City of Boston comes on the heels of Burna Boy’s recent achievements, including winning the Best Global Music Album for “Twice As Tall” at the 63rd GRAMMY Awards and being awarded the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MON) for his contributions to music. Burna Boy’s legacy serves as a reminder of the power of amplifying voices that have long been silenced or overlooked, and his designation as “Burna Boy Day” in Boston acknowledges his impact and influence as a global cultural figure. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
President Akufo-Addo Appoints Dr. Dacosta Aboagye as NHIA CEO
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has appointed Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, the Director of Health Promotion at the Ghana Health Service, as the new Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA). This appointment was made in accordance with Section 14 (1) of the National Health Insurance Act, 2012 (Act 852), as stated in a correspondence from the presidency. Dr. Aboagye brings an impressive educational background to his new role, with qualifications including a Ph.D. in National Health Insurance Scheme in Ghana, a Master’s degree in Public Health and Health Promotion, and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Additionally, he holds a higher national degree in pharmacy technology. With extensive experience in health insurance finance, public health, and health promotion, Dr. Aboagye has made significant contributions to Ghana’s health sector. He has been involved in managing the COVID-19 pandemic in Ghana as part of the presidential taskforce and has overseen the country’s risk communication initiatives. Furthermore, he has held leadership positions in various international health organizations, such as the West Africa Health Organisation and the Africa CDC. Dr. Dacosta Aboagye has also been recognized with numerous honors and distinctions, including the Order of the Volta – Companion Category, the Golden Citizen Award, and the MTN Young Professionals Role Model in Health. His appointment as the CEO of NHIA comes at a crucial time, as Ghana continues to strive for universal health coverage and sustainable development goals. Dr. Aboagye’s expertise and leadership will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the country’s healthcare system. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
U.S. Ambassador to Ghana Virginia Palmer Condemns Passage of Anti-Gay Bill
The Ambassador of the United States to Ghana, Virginia Evelyn Palmer, has publicly expressed her disappointment and concern following the recent approval of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, also known as the anti-gay bill, by the Ghanaian Parliament. The bill, which criminalizes and prohibits LGBT activities, has faced criticism from various quarters, including key figures like Professor Audrey Gadzekpo, the Board Chair of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana). In a Facebook post on Thursday, February 29, 2024, Ambassador Palmer conveyed her sadness regarding the bill’s approval. She highlighted concerns about its potential harm to the nation’s economy, reputation, and public health and order. The bill stipulates penalties, including a 6-month to 3-year jail term for individuals engaged in LGBT activities and a 3 to 5-year jail term for promoters and sponsors of such activities. Expressing her dismay, Ambassador Palmer emphasized that the bill not only infringes on the basic human rights of the LGBT community but also undermines the constitutional rights of all Ghanaians, including freedom of speech, assembly, and the press. She also raised concerns about the adverse effects of the bill on public order and health, arguing that its enactment could have negative consequences for Ghana’s international standing and economic well-being. In her statement, Ambassador Palmer said, “I am saddened because some of the smartest, most creative, most decent people I know are LGBT. The bill Parliament passed takes away not only their basic human rights but those of all Ghanaians because it undermines their constitutional rights to freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and freedom of the press. It will be bad for public order and public health. If enacted, it will also hurt Ghana’s international reputation and Ghana’s economy.” She also highlighted the importance of inclusivity and non-discrimination in fostering a strong and vibrant society, adding, “Lots of ethnic communities make Ghana strong, stable, and attractive for investments. I hope it stays that way with regard to the LGBTQ community. They should be managed to be made the colour of the money green or red if it’s Ghanaian, but if there is discrimination, then that will send a signal not to [only] LGBTQ investors and exporters but to other American companies that Ghana is less welcoming than I am telling people that it is now.” Her comments reflect the concerns of many who fear that the bill could undermine the progress made in creating an inclusive and diverse society in Ghana. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
Alan Kyeramaten Vows to Confront Corruption and Ease Tax Burdens if Voted into Power
In a bold statement on social media, Alan Kyeramaten, leader and founder of the Movement for Change, has promised to tackle corruption and reduce tax burdens on Ghanaians if elected in the upcoming December 7th elections. In a Facebook post on Thursday, February 29th, 2024, Kyeramaten declared, “I’m unwavering in my pledge to confront corruption head-on and alleviate the tax burden on our citizens.” He emphasized the need for robust anti-corruption measures to promote transparency and accountability within the government, ultimately reducing the need for excessive taxation. Addressing the high cost of transportation and economic challenges, Kyeramaten proposed to significantly reduce and ultimately eliminate duties on imported spare parts. This, he believes, will lower operational expenses for transport enterprises, leading to decreased lorry fares and ultimately contributing to reduced prices for essential commodities, including food. Kyeramaten’s vision for a brighter future free from corruption and with a lighter tax burden on the people has resonated with many supporters. With his promises to combat corruption and ease economic burdens, Kyeramaten has positioned himself as a candidate dedicated to improving the lives of the Ghanaian population. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
Energy Crisis in Ghana: IES Calls for Government to Provide Public with Power Outage Timetable
The Institute for Energy Security (IES) has urged the government, through the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), to provide the public with a timetable for the ongoing power outages affecting the country. This appeal comes amidst the government’s reluctance to acknowledge the existence of a power crisis in the nation. Many parts of Accra and other regions have been grappling with prolonged power outages, with little to no advance notice from ECG or GridCo. Addressing the issue on the Morning Starr show with Francis Abban monitored by Apexnewsgh, the Executive Director of IES Nana Amusi,, emphasized the importance of the government creating a timetable for power outages to assist citizens in planning their daily activities and businesses. Mr. Amusi noted, “It is just fair and common sense to think the same that you [the government] give a table out so that people can plan their lives and guide people as to when to expect power and when not to expect power.” He added that it has been a routine practice for authorities to provide a schedule during power outages. Furthermore, the IES Executive Director criticized ECG and NEDCo for their failure to release a timetable, attributing this to the government’s claims of resolving the power crisis. According to Amusi, GridCo has not provided explanations for the insufficient power supply, and ECG and NEDCo are hesitant to issue a timetable due to the government’s assertion that the “dumsor” issue has been resolved. The IES’s call for transparency and public communication regarding the power crisis highlights the urgency of the situation. It emphasizes the need for proactive measures and clear communication from the government and utility companies to assist citizens in managing the impact of the ongoing power outages. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
Ghana’s Parliament Passes Anti-LGBTQI+ Bill, US Voices Concern
The US State Department has voiced strong disapproval after Ghana’s Parliament passed a bill criminalizing LGBTQ activities and prohibiting their promotion, advocacy, and funding. The bill, known as the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, imposes jail terms for individuals engaged in such activities and imposes even harsher penalties for promoters and sponsors. The bill now awaits presidential assent to become law. Prior to its passage, sponsors of the bill initiated a motion for further consideration, proposing amendments to align editorial policies of media firms with the country’s constitution. The House approved these amendments, rejecting a motion to subject the funding of LGBT activities to the constitution. The approval of the bill follows a call from Professor Audrey Gadzekpo, urging President Akufo-Addo to reject it, arguing that it undermines fundamental human rights protected by the Constitution. The United Nations has also warned that the proposed law would institutionalize discrimination and violence against sexual minorities. In a statement reacting to the passage of the bill, US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller expressed deep concern, stating that the legislation would threaten all Ghanaians’ constitutionally protected freedoms of speech, press, and assembly. The US echoed the call by Ghanaians urging a review of the constitutionality of the bill to protect the rights of all individuals in Ghana. The US State Department also noted that the bill would undermine Ghana’s public health, media, and economy, and is inconsistent with the country’s tradition of tolerance, peace, and respect for human rights. The passage of similar laws in other countries has led to widespread abuse and suspension of funding, and the US is urging Ghana to reconsider the bill’s potential impact on human rights and economic growth. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
Parliament Upholds Traditional Values with Passage of Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, Journalists Say
In a historic move, Parliament has passed the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill, a decision hailed by a group of journalists known as Journalists Against LGBTQI+ Ghana as a demonstration of a commitment to preserving the traditional values and cultural norms of Ghana. Following the passage of the bill on Wednesday, 28 February 2024, the group released a statement expressing their appreciation to the proponents and sponsors of the bill, including Ningo Prampram MP Sam George and Ho West MP Emmanuel Bedzrah, for their dedication and courage in the face of external pressures. The group urged President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to swiftly assent to the bill without succumbing to any form of Western manipulation, believing that it is critical in safeguarding the moral fabric of society and protecting cherished values. “We stand united in our call for the President to prioritize the interests of Ghana and its people above external influences. Let us work together to uphold our cultural heritage and ensure a future where our values are respected and preserved,” the group added. The passage of the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill has been seen as a significant step towards upholding Ghana’s traditional values and cultural heritage, with Parliament being praised for their commitment to preserving these important aspects of Ghanaian society. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
Former President Mahama Calls for Equity in Education Provision Across Ghana
Former President John Mahama has urged the Ghanaian government to prioritize equity in the provision of education across the country. Speaking at the launch of the Ghana National Association of Private Schools Week, themed “2024 Elections: The Private Education Manifesto,” the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress emphasized the importance of ensuring all children have equal access to quality education. Reflecting on his own upbringing, Mahama highlighted the role of a strong educational foundation in shaping individual success. He noted, “I believe I am who I am because my father gave me a good foundation to attend Achimota Primary School to become what I have become.” However, he expressed concern that children in rural schools may not have the same opportunities for quality education. Addressing the disparities in the education system, Mahama emphasized the need to invest in poor rural schools that lack resources such as chairs and updated curricula. He lamented the lack of textbooks for students and teachers, despite changes in the curriculum over the past four years. Mahama’s call for equity in education provision underscores the importance of ensuring all Ghanaian children have access to quality learning environments and essential educational resources. As the country looks towards the future, his message serves as a reminder of the need for inclusive and equitable education policies to support the development and success of every child in Ghana. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.