Ghana Post Unveils Commemorative Stamp Honoring Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, a Celebration of Ghana’s Rich Heritage
In a grand celebration of Ghana’s storied heritage, Ghana Post has unveiled plans for a commemorative stamp honoring the esteemed Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the 16th Asantehene. Apexnewsgh reports The unveiling was announced during a press briefing on Friday, April 26th, at the Ministry of Communications’ conference room in Accra. The philatelic tribute, a masterpiece of artistry and symbolism, will make its grand debut on May 4th at the iconic Manhyia Palace in Kumasi. The historic event promises to be a highlight of the year, gathering luminaries from captains of industry, Nananom, and top government officials under one roof. The Honorable Ursula Ekuful, Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, will deliver the keynote address, underscoring the profound cultural significance of this commemorative stamp. Her presence, alongside other esteemed guests, will undoubtedly elevate the occasion to a national spectacle. According to the Managing Director of Ghana Post, “This stamp transcends its role as a mere postage instrument; it stands as a powerful symbol of our nation’s deep reverence and admiration for the Asante Kingdom and its esteemed leader.” The unveiling ceremony is a testament to Ghana Post’s unwavering commitment to preserving the nation’s cultural identity and promoting its rich heritage on the global stage. The commemorative stamp’s design is a masterful blend of intricate details and symbolic elements that capture the essence of Asante and Ghanaian culture, paying homage to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s enduring legacy. The launch of this visionary project will be a multifaceted celebration, with the Manhyia Palace unveiling serving as the centerpiece. However, the festivities will extend beyond the borders of Ghana, as the United Kingdom is set to host its own launch at a later date, solidifying the stamp’s international reach and cementing Ghana’s status as a custodian of cultural richness. Complementing these grand events, an essay writing competition will be open to students aged 9 to 15, challenging young minds to reflect on Otumfuo’s enduring impact and his role as a catalyst for positive change. This visionary commemorative stamp initiative, spearheaded by Ghana Post in collaboration with esteemed partners such as GCB Bank, Ghana Gas, and GOIL, transcends mere philatelic interests. As the world’s gaze turns towards Ghana, this stamp will serve as a powerful reminder of the nation’s resilience, its unwavering commitment to preserving its cultural identity, and its readiness to embrace the future while honoring the lessons of the past. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0555568093.
Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid Reelected as ARDA President for Second Term
Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), has been unanimously reelected as President of the African Refiners and Distributors Association (ARDA) for a second term in office. Apexnewsgh reports The reelection was confirmed by the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the association in Cape Town, South Africa, following his renomination by the Executive Secretary and unanimous approval by the Executive Committee. Under Dr. Abdul-Hamid’s leadership, ARDA has made significant strides in achieving its strategic objectives over the past year. He has successfully improved the association’s presence and visibility by securing key continental and global energy platforms to advocate for the inclusion and participation of the African downstream in global energy transition conversations. These platforms have led to strategic partnerships and alliances, further solidifying ARDA’s position in the global energy landscape. Dr. Abdul-Hamid’s leadership has also brought financial stability to the association through an improved membership drive, resulting in increased dues payment and sponsorships from strategic partners. Additionally, he has initiated structural reforms to improve the inclusion and working conditions of staff at the Secretariat of the Association. Dr. Abdul-Hamid will serve his second and final one-year term as ARDA President, building on his achievements and continuing to drive the association’s mission forward. His reelection is a testament to his dedication and leadership, and ARDA looks forward to continued growth and success under his guidance. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0555568093.
Educationist Slams Ministry’s Proposal to Change Basic School Uniforms, Cites Misplaced Priorities
Educationist Samuel Zigah has lambasted the Ministry of Education’s proposal to change the uniforms of basic schools from brown to blue and white nationwide, labeling it an unnecessary and misguided move. Apexnewsgh reports In an interview on Accra based station monitored by this platform Mr. Zigah argued that the focus should be on more pressing issues in the education sector, such as eradicating basic schools under trees, rather than altering uniform colors. Mr. Zigah questioned the transformative impact of changing the uniform colors from brown to blue and white, urging the sector Minister to prioritize tangible initiatives that would genuinely improve the lives of teachers and students. He suggested that updating the uniforms of Ministry staff would be a more productive focus. Moreover, Mr. Zigah expressed concerns that the proposed uniform change could be a ploy to award lucrative contracts to associates and allies, and highlighted the financial burden it would impose on parents. His criticism echoes the sentiments of many who believe the Ministry should prioritize more substantive reforms in the education sector. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0555568093.
Mahama Fires Back at Akufo-Addo: “You Can’t Choose Your Successor in a Democratic Country”
Former President John Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has responded sharply to President Akufo-Addo’s recent statement that he cannot be his successor in the 2024 election. Apexnewsgh reports President Akufo-Addo had made the comment during a visit to the Wa Naa, a traditional ruler, stating that he would return with his successor, implying that it would not be John Mahama. Addressing a gathering at Damongo in the Savannah Region, Mahama emphasized that in a democratic country, the President cannot determine who succeeds him. He urged President Akufo-Addo to prioritize a peaceful, transparent, and credible election as his lasting legacy. Mahama stressed that it is God who makes rulers and chooses successors, not the President. Mahama’s response highlights the tension between the two leaders and sets the stage for a contentious election season. The NDC and NPP are already trading barbs, and this exchange is likely to fuel further debate and political maneuvering in the coming months. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0555568093.
Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang Outdoored as NDC Running Mate, Throws Shade at Bawumia’s “Driver’s Mate” Comment
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) officially outdoored Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as its vice-presidential running mate on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at the University for Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA). Apexnewsgh reports In her acceptance speech, Professor Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that she will not consider herself a “driver’s mate” to presidential candidate John Dramani Mahama if they win the 2024 elections. This statement was seen as a direct reference to Vice President and presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who has described himself as a “driver’s mate” to President Akufo-Addo. However, political analysts pointed out that Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s comment contradicts a similar position taken by John Mahama in 2012, when he was the sitting President and referred to himself as a “spare driver” or “caretaker” to President John Evans Atta Mills. While the terminology used by Mahama and Bawumia differs (“spare driver” vs. “driver’s mate”), both acknowledged their roles as Vice Presidents as secondary to the President. In contrast, Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s statement suggests she disagrees with this perspective, not only with Bawumia but also with her own running mate, John Mahama. This has sparked interesting discussions in the political sphere, as the NDC and NPP gear up for the 2024 general elections. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0555568093.
Conservative MP “deported” from Djibouti over China criticism
A Conservative MP says he was deported during a trip to Djibouti due to the east African country’s close ties to China. Tim Loughton, the MP for East Worthing and Shoreham, said he was detained for more than seven hours before being “escorted” to a flight out of Djibouti earlier this month. Mr Loughton, who had sanctions imposed on him in 2021 by Beijing, said the experience was “very lonely and frightening”. China’s foreign office has said the accusations are baseless. Mr Loughton was in Djibouti for a 24-hour visit, which included a meeting with the British ambassador. He said when he arrived in his passport was scanned and he was asked what he did. He told the BBC: “I told them I was a member of parliament and then it went all very frosty. “Djibouti is effectively a vassel state of China – what China wants, Djibouti kowtows to and having a troublesome MP who has been sanctioned by China turning up on their doorstep was clearly something they didn’t want to entertain.” He said he was put on the next available flight out of the country. He said: “This was another example of how the tentacles of the Chinese Communist Government extend far and wide, and their malign influence in sensitive parts of Africa is particularly worrying. “Yet the intimidation of countless others who have dared to speak out against China’s industrial scale human rights abuses and who do not have the platform an MP raises serious concerns.” Human rights In 2021, China imposed sanctions on five MPs, including Mr Loughton, for spreading what it called “lies and disinformation” about the country. It came in retaliation for measures taken by the UK government over human rights abuses against the Uighur Muslim minority group. Mr Loughton is co-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Tibet, which has highlighted China’s record on human rights abuses. In 2019 he introduced the Reciprocal Access Bill in the House of Commons which requires the UK government to take measures against Chinese officials denying access to Tibet. He is also a leading member of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, an international cross-party group working towards reform on how democratic countries approach China. The former minister and member of the home affairs select committee has said he will not stand at the next general election after more than 27 years in parliament. Source: BBC
GUTA Demands Load-Shedding Timetable from ECG to Mitigate Adverse Effects on Businesses
The Ghana Union of Traders’ Association (GUTA) has issued a urgent call for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to release a load-shedding timetable, also known as a “dumsor” timetable, to aid businesses in better planning and mitigating the adverse effects of frequent power disruptions. Apexnewsgh reports In a statement signed by Joseph Paddy, Director of Communication for GUTA, the association expressed deep concern over the detrimental impact of power outages on productivity and the economy as a whole. Despite repeated appeals from various quarters, including Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and the Public Utility Regulatory Commission (PURC), ECG has yet to provide a transparent load-management schedule. This lack of transparency has resulted in substantial operational expenses for businesses, which are often forced to rely on generators due to the unpredictable power supply. This reliance, in turn, leads to additional costs for fuel procurement and storage, further exacerbating the financial burdens of businesses. GUTA’s President commended former President Mahama’s proposed 24-hour economy initiative, citing its potential to alleviate the challenges posed by power outages. The association also highlighted the widespread repercussions of power outages across various sectors, including manufacturing, where inconsistent power supply escalates production costs and exacerbates the living conditions of citizens. GUTA’s representative emphasized the plight faced by numerous shop owners who are compelled to resort to generators amidst the erratic power supply, further exacerbating their financial burdens. The association urged ECG to take immediate action and release a load-shedding timetable to aid businesses in better planning and mitigating the adverse effects of power disruptions. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0555568093.
Dr. Bawumia Launches Presidential Campaign with Nationwide Tour, Focusing on Issue-Based Solutions
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Presidential candidate, is set to embark on a nationwide tour starting today, Monday, April 29, 2024, to officially launch his presidential campaign for the upcoming December polls. Apexnewsgh reports Notably, he begins this journey without having named a running-mate. Dr. Bawumia and his campaign team have pledged to conduct an issue-based campaign, focusing on practical and tailored solutions to address the concerns of Ghanaians. The tour will commence in the Eastern Region, where Dr. Bawumia will engage with various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, clergy, youth, traders, drivers, farmers, students, and business owners. As part of the tour, Dr. Bawumia will visit marketplaces to interact with traders and consumers, engage with the media, and host town hall meetings. According to a statement from his campaign team, signed by Director of Communications Dennis Miracles Aboagye, the NPP’s approach to the 2024 race centers on three key elements: the battle of ideas and character, the battle of records, and the battle of effective campaigning. This campaign strategy aims to highlight Dr. Bawumia’s vision for Ghana’s future, his leadership qualities, and the NPP’s achievements in office, while also engaging with citizens and listening to their concerns. As the campaign trail begins, Ghanaians can expect a robust and issue-focused campaign from the NPP’s presidential candidate. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0555568093.