Energy Minister, CBOD CEO shoot down GRA-SML deal resumption
…Reveal inferior Petroleum Revenue Monitoring System The Energy Minister, Matthew Opoku Prempeh and the Chief Executive of the Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors, have shot down the resumption of work by Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) in the monitoring operations in Ghana’s Downstream Petroleum. The two, raised concerns about the recommencement of work while disclosing that SML’s technology was inferior to the revenue monitoring systems that have been developed by the Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Trade and Industry, and other relevant stakeholders based on the Singaporean Standard. The energy minister, in a letter dated Thursday, June 20, 2024, and addressed to the Commissioner-General of Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), explained that the Singaporean Standard, had “developed new standards for measurements in the oil and gas sector which utilizes the Coriolis mass flow metering system”. “In view of the foregoing, we wish to indicate that all persons and entities undertaking measurements for purposes of revenue assurances in the oil and gas sector are expected to do so in accordance with the new standards, the minister’s letter cautioned the GRA boss. SML was directed by the GRA to restart its monitoring activities in the downstream petroleum sector effective June 14, 2024. This comes after an audit by the KPMG into the controversial deal commissioned by President Nana Akufo-Addo, concluded that SML contracts, had breached many laws, including the Public Financial Management Act. The report said the multi-year contracts should go through Parliament for approval. The latest decision, announced in a GRA statement dated June 12, 2024, was conveyed to Bulk Oil Distributors and aligns with directives from President Akufo-Addo, following the comprehensive KPMG report. The GRA’s statement highlighted the necessity for SML to ensure that all systems are fully functional and in compliance with relevant standards and regulations. This move aims to provide accurate, reliable, and timely monitoring services to bolster revenue assurance. The Bulk Oil Distributors are expected to cooperate to facilitate the effective resumption of these monitoring operations. “We inform you that Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) is directed to resume its monitoring operations in the Downstream Petroleum sector effective June 14, 2024, as per the Presidential Directives on the KPMG report. SML must ensure all systems are fully operational and comply with relevant standards and regulations to provide accurate, reliable, and timely monitoring services to support our revenue assurance. The Bulk Oil Distributors must cooperate to ensure a successful resumption of the monitoring exercise,” read parts of the statement. Interestingly, the Ministry of Energy, in a June 20 statement, announced the development of new measurement standards for the oil and gas sector in collaboration with the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), the Ministry of Trade and Industry, and other relevant stakeholders. These new standards are based on the Singaporean Standard and utilize the Coriolis mass flow metering system. “The GSA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Trade and Industry, and other stakeholders, has developed new standards for measurements in the oil and gas sector, based on the Singaporean Standard, utilizing the Coriolis mass flow metering system. The Minister for Trade and Industry, under Section 13 of the Ghana Standards Authority Act, 2022, Act 1078, has declared these standards operational and mandatory. All entities undertaking measurements for revenue assurance in the oil and gas sector must adhere to the new standards,” the Ministry noted. “Subsequently, the Minister for Trade and Industry pursuant to Section 13 of the Ghana Standards Authority Act, 2022, Act 1078, has declared the standards operational and mandatory. “In view of the foregoing, we wish to indicate that all persons and entities undertaking measurements for purposes of revenue assurances in the oil and gas sector are expected to do so in accordance with the new standards. “We count on your co-operation in this regard”, Dr Opoku Prempeh’s letter concluded. The directive for SML’s operational resumption and the introduction of new measurement standards follow President Akufo-Addo’s commissioning of KPMG on January 2 to audit the contract between the GRA and SML. The KPMG, report revealed significant financial details, noting that SML received a total of GH¢1,061,054,778.00 from 2018 to the present. This includes GH¢454,860,396.27 for transaction audit and external price verification payments and GH¢945,342,007.29 for downstream petroleum measurement payments. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the partnership, aimed at enhancing revenue collection in Ghana through advanced technological solutions, reducing leakages, and increasing overall efficiency in the GRA’s operations. The CBOD CEO, Dr Patrick Ofori, on his part, explained that there are existing mechanisms that ensure that the government’s revenue from the downstream petroleum sector is monitored and mobilised effectively. This comes after the GRA gave SML, the green light to resume its monitoring operations of the Downstream Petroleum sector effective June 14, 2024. In a statement to SML, the revenue authority noted that the directive is in accordance with President Akufo-Addo’s directives on the KPMG report. “We wish to inform you that Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) has been directed to resume its monitoring operations of the Downstream Petroleum sector with effect from 14th June 2024 in accordance with the Presidential Directives on the KPMG report. “SML is expected to ensure that all systems are fully operational and compliant with the relevant standards and regulations to deliver accurate, reliable and timely monitoring services to support our revenue assurance. “The Bulk Oil Distributors are to cooperate to ensure a successful resumption of the monitoring exercise.” However, in an interview on Eyewitness News, Dr. Ofori noted that there are more than four mechanisms in the downstream sector that are being put in place to ensure the government is not shortchanged. “When we talk about standardisation, and a system seeks to protect revenue assurance, I don’t think the mission of the NPA and that of the standard authorities would want to approve certain systems that shortchange government revenue generation; the Ghana Revenue Authority, with their mandate, would do that. “Collectively, at the state level, they could have come together with one system that does not necessitate conflicts. Because, currently, we have more than four mechanisms
MP Ablakwa Requests Evidence of Rock City’s Tax Clearance Certificate
North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has filed a request under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, seeking proof of Rock City’s GRA Tax Clearance Certificate. Ablakwa alleges that Rock City, bidding to acquire a 60% stake in four SSNIT Hotels, failed to file tax returns for 2021 and 2022, rendering their tax clearance certificate invalid during the tender process. Apexnewsgh reports Citing the Income Tax Act and SSNIT’s Pre-Qualification Criteria, Ablakwa argues that Rock City’s bid should have been disqualified. He is also seeking the full evaluation report and tender committee meeting minutes. The MP expects SSNIT to comply with the RTI law and provide the requested information, promoting transparency and accountability. Ablakwa has been vocal in opposing the sale, labeling it “state capture” and organizing a demonstration against it. He urges Ghanaians to resist the transaction, exercising his parliamentary oversight mandate. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Tragedy Strikes Hajj Pilgrimage as Death Toll Exceeds 1,300
A devastating heatwave struck the holy city of Mecca during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage, resulting in the loss of at least 1,301 lives, mostly unauthorized pilgrims who braved extreme temperatures without adequate shelter or official permits. Apexnewsgh reports The Saudi government reported that over 75% of the deceased lacked official permits and succumbed to the intense heat, which reached a scorching 51.8C (125.2F) in Mecca. Many of the victims were elderly or chronically ill, according to the official Saudi news agency SPA. Health Minister Fahd Al-Jalajel expressed condolences and acknowledged efforts to raise awareness about heat stress, but critics argue that Saudi Arabia must do more to ensure the safety of all pilgrims, particularly those without official permits. The tragedy has sparked a global response, with countries like Egypt, Indonesia, India, and Jordan reporting significant losses. The fallout has led to government actions, including the revocation of tourism licenses and the firing of officials. The Hajj pilgrimage is a sacred duty for Muslims, but the costs and quota system have led many to attempt the journey without permits, risking arrest and deportation. This year’s tragedy highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures and more inclusive access to this sacred event. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Bawumia Boasts of 33 Policies, Says Mahama Has Zero
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has claimed that he has initiated and championed 33 cutting-edge policies during his tenure, while his main rival, John Dramani Mahama, has failed to initiate a single policy during his time as vice president and president. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking at a fundraising dinner dance in London, Dr. Bawumia said his achievements make him the most impactful vice president in Ghana’s history, scoring 33 to Mahama’s zero. He urged Ghanaians to promote him to president in the December 2024 general election. Dr. Bawumia highlighted his objectives, including promoting a mindset of possibility among Ghanaians and seeking to shift the campaign into second gear in July and third and fourth gear by November. He expressed gratitude to NPP-UK for their support and contributions to the party’s success. The general secretary of the NPP, Justin Frimpong Koduah, emphasized the importance of choosing a candidate who can serve two terms, like Dr. Bawumia, ensuring accountability and development for the country. The chairman of NPP-UK, Kingsley Adumattah Agyapong, assured Dr. Bawumia of their unwavering support, praising his leadership and vision. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Former CID Boss Calls for Regional Collaboration to Investigate Security Officers’ Killings
Retired COP Bright Oduro, former Director General of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), has endorsed calls for a thorough investigation and collaboration between Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Burkina Faso’s security forces to probe the recent murders of security officers in Wa, Upper West Region. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking on Asaase 99.5’s Town Hall Talk monitored by Apexnewsgh, Mr. Oduro suggested that the perpetrators may be transporting harvested body parts across borders, emphasizing the need for cooperation with neighboring jurisdictions. He urged the police to lead the investigation, acknowledging the lack of information currently available. The comments come after the gruesome discovery of a security guard’s lifeless body with severed penis and throat parts, and another security man found in a shallow grave, sparking fears of a serial killer or ritual murders. The killings echo a similar trend in 2023, which saw 11 security personnel killed in the Upper West region, prompting a visit from the Inspector General of Police, George Akuffo Dampare. A recent deployment of police officers to Bole, 100km from Wa, aimed to apprehend the culprits behind similar killings in the area. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Okyenhene Calls for Improved Conditions of Service for Teachers
Okyenhene Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin has urged the government to improve the conditions of service for teachers, particularly those in rural areas, to achieve equitable quality education in line with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4). Apexnewsgh reports This call comes amid recent industrial actions by pre-tertiary teacher unions over unpaid allowances and poor working conditions. The Okyenhene emphasized that providing infrastructure and laptops to schools is ineffective without quality teachers to utilize these resources. He advocates for special incentives for teachers posted to rural areas, improved accommodations, and better conditions of service to reduce the high attrition rate in the teaching profession. He praised the Free SHS program and encouraged parents to take advantage of it to provide secondary education for their children. Okyenhene also cautioned against teenage pregnancy, irresponsible parenting, and land and chieftaincy disputes, which hinder development. The Benkum Divisional durbar was held in honor of Okyenhene’s 25th-anniversary celebration on the accession to the Ofori Panin stool, with the theme “25 Years of Sustainable Leadership and Service to Humanity.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Police Investigate Destruction of NPP Party Structure in Pusiga, Upper East Region
The Ghana Police Service has launched an investigation into the destruction of a structure in Pusiga, Upper East Region, which occurred on Saturday, June 22, 2024. Apexnewsgh reports Contrary to claims in a viral video, preliminary investigations by Apexnewsgh also confirmed police investigation. The destruction was not motivated by political rivalry, but rather a misunderstanding between the youth and some community elders. The Police Service has cautioned the public against spreading disinformation, which can cause fear and panic. In a Facebook post, the police stated that they are working closely with stakeholders in the community to resolve the matter and apprehend those responsible for the destruction and disinformation. Efforts are underway to identify and arrest the perpetrators, and the police are urging the public to remain calm and rely on credible sources of information. The investigation is ongoing, and the police will provide updates as more information becomes available. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Court of Appeal Sets Timelines to Hear Ambulance Case Appeal
A three-member panel of the Court of Appeal has established a timeline to hear an appeal filed by Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and Richard Jakpa, challenging the High Court’s order to open their defense in the ongoing ambulance case. Apexnewsgh reports The appeal comes after the High Court, presided over by Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, ruled on March 30, 2023, that the accused persons must open their defense, as a prima facie case had been established against them. Dr. Ato Forson, the current minority leader in parliament, and businessman Richard Jakpa are accused of willfully causing financial loss to the republic, totaling 2.37 million euros, through the purchase of ambulances. The Court of Appeal panel, consisting of Justices Poku Acheampong, Kweku Tawiah Ackaah-Boafo, and Philip Bright Mensah, has directed the applicants to file their written submissions within seven days from June 19, 2024, and serve the same on the Attorney General’s Office. The Attorney General must then file responding submissions within seven days after being served with the Applicant’s submissions. The court has set July 30, 2024, to deliver its decision. The trial is ongoing, with both the prosecution and Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson closing their cases, while Richard Jakpa is under cross-examination by the Prosecution. The case has taken a dramatic turn with Richard Jakpa alleging that the Attorney General met with him at odd hours to implicate Dr. Ato Forson. The High Court’s ruling on March 30, 2023, held that prima facie evidence had been established against the accused persons, requiring them to answer to the charges. The court found that a prima facie case had been established against Dr. Ato Forson and Richard Jakpa for willfully causing financial loss and intentionally misapplying public property. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Government to Disburse GHS1.5 billion to Customers Affected by Banking Sector Clean-up
In a recent announcement made at a UK Town Hall meeting, Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam revealed that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has directed the Finance Ministry to disburse GHS1.5 billion to assist customers affected by the banking sector clean-up. Apexnewsgh reports This directive is aimed at providing relief to those who have suffered hardships due to the financial sector’s upheaval. Dr. Amin Adam emphasized that the disbursement must be completed by October, highlighting the government’s commitment to the welfare of Ghanaians. He acknowledged that while individuals are responsible for their investment decisions, the government recognizes the difficulties faced by those affected and is taking steps to provide support. The Finance Minister noted that some individuals have suffered greatly, with some even losing their lives or resorting to suicide. He emphasized that the government is committed to providing assistance, having already granted a bailout to those affected and now directing an additional disbursement of GHS1.5 billion. In addition to the relief efforts, Dr. Amin Adam announced the successful conclusion of Ghana’s debt restructuring program with its official creditors. The government has restructured its debt of USD5.1 billion with these creditors and has also completed the restructuring of USD13.1 billion with Eurobond holders. This move is seen as a positive step towards addressing the challenges faced by those affected by the banking sector clean-up and demonstrates the government’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Accelerated Vaccine Production in Africa Crucial, Says President Akufo-Addo
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has stressed the urgent need for Africa to boost its vaccine production capabilities, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in the process. Apexnewsgh reports He made this call at the Global Forum for Vaccine Sovereignty and Innovation, a platform convened by France, the African Union, and Gavi to promote vaccine sovereignty and innovation. The President highlighted the recent approval of the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA) initiative, which was given the green light during the Gavi Board meeting in Accra. This initiative, led by Gavi and the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, aims to support the African Union’s goal of manufacturing at least 60% of the continent’s vaccine doses by 2040. President Akufo-Addo also showcased Ghana’s impressive track record on vaccination, achieved through a combination of organized campaigns and routine services. The country’s high immunization coverage rates demonstrate its commitment to protecting public health. By emphasizing the need for accelerated and sustainable vaccine production in Africa, President Akufo-Addo’s statement underscores the importance of self-sufficiency in vaccine manufacturing for the continent’s health security. The Global Forum for Vaccine Sovereignty and Innovation serves as a vital platform for advancing this agenda and fostering innovation in the vaccine sector. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.