Parliament Under Siege: Judiciary and Executive Colluding to Weaken Legislature – Bagbin
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has raised concerns regarding what he perceives as a concerted effort by both the Judiciary and the Executive to undermine Parliament’s authority. Apexnewsgh reports This alarm was sounded following a Supreme Court ruling that prohibited him from declaring four parliamentary seats vacant, a decision that has ignited a fierce debate about the limits of the Speaker’s powers and the influence of the Judiciary over parliamentary matters. Bagbin, disturbed by the Supreme Court’s intervention, initially contested the ruling. He argued passionately that Parliament, as a distinct and separate branch of government, should maintain exclusive control over its own decisions. Additionally, he sought to nullify a writ from Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, which called for judicial action to prevent further declarations regarding the contentious seats. During a media briefing, Bagbin did not hold back in expressing his fears. He accused the Judiciary and the Executive of encroaching on the legislative arm’s independence. “This interference could destabilize Ghana’s democracy,” he warned, emphasizing that matters internal to Parliament should not fall under judicial scrutiny. He underscored the risk of setting a dangerous precedent that could erode the separation of powers outlined in Ghana’s Constitution. The Speaker outlined several key concerns stemming from this situation. First, he pointed to what he described as judicial overreach, asserting that the courts are overstepping their authority by delving into parliamentary issues. He also expressed suspicions of an alliance between the Executive and the Judiciary aimed at diminishing Parliament’s role. Most alarmingly, Bagbin warned that such encroachments threaten not just parliamentary authority but also the democratic foundations of the nation itself. In his remarks, Bagbin urged Ghanaians to remain vigilant, emphasizing the necessity of protecting the independence of all branches of government. He highlighted the crucial function of legislative autonomy in safeguarding the core values of democracy. As he put it, “The current issues may be likened to a power play, with the potential to undermine our democracy and the authority of Parliament.” As discussions continue to unfold, the ramifications of this situation may resonate far beyond the walls of Parliament, raising questions about the future of governance in Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Contact: +233248250270/+233256336062 for your publications
Mtn Ghana Launches Sustainability Week, Reflects On Its Sustainability Journey
MTN Ghana has officially launched its inaugural Sustainability Week celebration under the theme “Sustainability: Our Collective Responsibility.” This week-long event showcases MTN’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. The celebrations kicked off with the unveiling of an electric car and motorbike at MTN House, along with a display highlighting how MTN is utilizing solar energy and renewable resources to reduce its energy sources. During the event, Stephen Blewett, the CEO of MTN Ghana, emphasized the importance of sustainability for future generations. He stated, “Sustainability is for future generations, and the current generation has a responsibility to care for the environment. MTN is implementing initiatives aimed at achieving the company’s ESG goals and strategic intent.” The CEO urged MTN employees to embrace Sustainable practices to make the world a better place. Adwoa Afriyie Wiafe, the Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer of MTN Ghana, noted that the Sustainability Week is vital for realizing MTN’s Ambition 2025 Strategic Intent and the company’s commitment to ESG principles. She explained, “Our sustainability vision seeks to create shared value for our stakeholders through responsible environmental, social, and governance practices and solutions”. The weeklong program has activities like “Lunch and Learn”, “Eco Talk” and “Bright Conversations” which will bring employees and others together to reflect on MTN’s journey so far and its plans for the future. MTN Ghana is dedicated to fostering a sustainable future and enhancing the well-being of society. In celebrating Sustainability Week, the company aims to raise awareness about environmental and social issues, inspire positive change, and reinforce its commitment to sustainable development. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Contact: +233248250270/+233256336062 for your publications
Akufo-Addo Touts 80% Completion Rate of NPP Manifesto Promises
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo embarked on a tour of the Western North Region, where he made a significant declaration about the achievements of his administration. Apexnewsgh reports With confidence and sincerity, he shared with the gathered crowds that his government had successfully fulfilled 80% of the promises outlined in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) manifesto. “I wouldn’t stand before you and say I have delivered on all my promises. That would not be truthful,” he acknowledged, before emphasizing his pride in reaching that milestone. His statement echoed a similar assertion made by NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who had previously claimed that the duo’s administration had delivered on the same percentage of promises made in their 2020 manifesto. As he spoke, the President highlighted key sectors where his government had made significant strides, including education, health, road infrastructure, industrial transformation, agriculture, and cocoa production. Among the hallmark achievements was the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which had fundamentally changed the educational landscape since its launch in 2017. This initiative has benefited over 5.7 million students, ensuring access to secondary education for many who had previously faced financial barriers. Reflecting on this transformative policy, President Akufo-Addo recalled the plight of more than 100,000 Junior High School graduates who were unable to continue their education due to financial constraints before his presidency. Despite the challenges that his administration has faced, President Akufo-Addo remained steadfast in his commitment to furthering the country’s development. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the people of Western North for their unwavering support, acknowledging that their trust and collaboration have been vital in achieving these accomplishments. As he concluded his address, the hopeful atmosphere resonated with the crowd, highlighting a shared vision for a brighter future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Contact: +233248250270/+233256336062 for your publications
Electoral Commission Boosts Credibility with Expert Recruitment
Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC) recently announced its renewed commitment to maintaining public trust in the upcoming elections. Apexnewsgh reports On November 5, 2024, Dr. Eric Bossman Asare, the Deputy Chairperson of the EC, addressed the media, highlighting a key initiative: the recruitment of over 200 professionals with expertise in mathematics, statistics, and various quantitative fields. Dr. Asare explained that these experts would be vital in enhancing the accuracy and credibility of the elections. “The Commission has already brought on board over 280,000 individuals to work on this election cycle,” he stated, emphasizing the inclusion of specialists in mathematics, actuarial science, and statistics. Their roles would involve assisting with quantitative methods and supporting returning officers at the constituency level. The newly recruited data experts will tackle critical tasks that are essential to the electoral process. They will oversee data collation, ensuring that the collection of election information is both accurate and efficient. Their responsibilities will also include vote tabulation, which involves the precise counting and recording of votes, and statistical analysis, where they will provide in-depth insights into election trends and outcomes. Dr. Asare further asserted that the EC’s unwavering focus on accuracy and transparency is fundamental to preserving public confidence in the electoral results. He reiterated, “The Commission’s preparations are centered on accuracy and transparency, essential to maintain the public’s confidence in the results.” This proactive approach demonstrates the EC’s dedication to conducting elections that are free, fair, and transparent, in alignment with Ghana’s constitutional democracy and parliamentary system. By harnessing the knowledge of experts in various fields, the EC aims to mitigate the risks of electoral violence and misfeasance, striving to ensure that the electoral process remains credible and trustworthy for all citizens. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Contact: +233248250270/+233256336062 for your publications
Adaklu MP Confident of Majority Caucus in Parliament Come Thursday
In a spirited rally held in Adaklu Ahunda, Kwame Agbodza, the NDC Member of Parliament for Adaklu, delivered a bold message to supporters, expressing his unwavering confidence in his party’s future. With the announcement of four vacant parliamentary seats, Agbodza declared that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) would reclaim the majority when Parliament reconvenes. Apexnewsgh reports During his address, he stated emphatically, “I do not intend to be called Minority Leader in 2024, and that will not happen.” His conviction was palpable as he asserted, “I will be going to Parliament on Thursday as Majority Chief Whip, and I will come back as Majority Chief Whip. Whoever doesn’t like it can do whatever he or she likes.” Agbodza leaned on Article 97 of the 1992 Constitution to bolster his claims, pointing out that the four MPs whose seats were declared vacant have not contested the decision made by the Speaker of Parliament. He elaborated, “As far as I am concerned, the four colleagues have actually vacated their seats in accordance with Article 97. And since they are not going to renege on that decision not to contest, they are no longer valid Members of Parliament.” In addition to discussing the upcoming parliamentary session, Agbodza took aim at the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) assertions regarding infrastructure developments in the constituency. He refuted Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s claims about the NPP constructing the first tarred road in Adaklu, insisting that the Akwetey-to-Waya road was initially developed under NDC leadership. “The only other road that they have attempted was Akwetey to Waya, which we actually awarded before we left. This road has existed for more than 10 years,” he asserted, emphasizing the stark difference in quality between the NDC and NPP’s infrastructure projects. “Just try and use the road that was constructed for less than one year and see for yourself the quality. This is NDC quality; that is NPP quality.” As his supporters cheered him on, Agbodza’s remarks resonated with a blend of hope and challenge, reflecting the dynamic political landscape in Ghana as the NDC prepares to reclaim its position in Parliament. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Contact: +233248250270/+233256336062 for your publications
Alarming Rise in HIV Infections: Ghana Records 34,000 New Cases in 2024
In recent weeks, Ghana’s fight against HIV/AIDS has taken a concerning turn. Apexnewsgh reports At a launch event for the upcoming World AIDS Day, Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo, the Programme Manager for the National HIV and AIDS Control Programme, shared distressing news: 34,000 new HIV infections have been recorded between January and the third quarter of 2024. This alarming statistic has raised urgent calls for intensified public health efforts as the nation aims to eliminate the HIV epidemic by 2030. The Ghana AIDS Commission has been at the forefront of combatting the virus, tirelessly working to raise awareness and provide essential services. During this period, approximately 1.3 million people were screened, playing a crucial role in identifying those affected. Dr. Ayisi highlighted the growing challenge, emphasizing the need for continuous vigilance as the rise in new infections threatens the progress being made towards the 2030 target. As World AIDS Day approaches, observed annually on December 1, the importance of the day takes center stage once more. This year, the theme, “Take the Rights Path,” is a call to action for all countries to reinforce their commitment to preventing new infections and supporting those living with HIV. Dr. Ayisi stressed the responsibility of sexually active individuals to prioritize their health, underscoring the critical role that condoms play in prevention. Dr. Atuahene Kyeremeh, Director-General of the Ghana AIDS Commission, echoed these sentiments, reaffirming the Commission’s dedication to partnering with various stakeholders to reach the ambitious 2030 goal. He emphasized the importance of regular screenings and the availability of free treatment options that have been proven effective in managing the virus. To commemorate World AIDS Day, the Ghana AIDS Commission is set to host a grand durbar in Accra on December 2, 2024. The event promises to gather representatives from significant organizations, including the Ghana Health Service, the Ministry of Health, UNAIDS, and the National Association of Persons Living with HIV (NAP+), all united in the ongoing effort to combat this public health crisis. As the nation gears up for this pivotal moment, the collective hope is that with renewed commitment and action, Ghana can move closer to a future free from the burden of HIV/AIDS.
Handsome Donald Trump Declares Victory in Stunning Comeback
Former President Donald Trump took the stage early Wednesday morning, exuding confidence as he declared victory in the 2024 presidential race. Apexnewsgh reports The moment was electric, punctuated by the announcements from news organizations confirming his win, which sent waves of excitement through his supporters. As Trump addressed the crowd, he emphasized the significance of his comeback, highlighting how he had triumphed over challenges that many believed were insurmountable. “We made history for a reason tonight, and the reason is that we overcame obstacles that nobody thought possible,” he proclaimed, his voice resonating with a mixture of triumph and relief. The pivotal moment of the night came when Fox News called Pennsylvania in Trump’s favor, a victory that solidified his wins in three key states. The crowd erupted into cheers, celebrating a moment they had long hoped for. In an outburst of enthusiasm, a fan dashed to the front, high-fiving friends and strangers, embodying the exhilaration that filled the air. Surrounded by family, aides, and a plethora of devoted supporters, Trump took a moment to express his gratitude to his loyal base. He painted a bright picture of a golden age ahead for the nation, as his supporters, often labeled as “garbage” and “deplorables,” felt a strong sense of vindication for standing by him through the tumultuous years. Yet, amidst the jubilation, shadows of concern loomed. Whispers about potential disputes regarding the election results echoed in the background, reminiscent of Trump’s previous claims of voter fraud during the 2020 campaign. Allies and experts speculated about what Trump’s next moves might be, but for that night, his supporters reveled in their joyous victory, savoring the sweet taste of success. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Contact: +233248250270/+233256336062 for your publications