Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams Shines in Ghana Movie Awards Nomination
Renowned cleric Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams has received a nomination for the prestigious 2024 Ghana Movie Awards. Apexnewsgh reports The Archbishop stands out in the ‘Cameo Actor’ category for his memorable performance in the film “A Taste of Sin”, directed by Frank Rajah Arase. “A Taste of Sin” delves into profound themes of faith and redemption, and Duncan-Williams’ brief yet powerful portrayal has garnered widespread acclaim, proving his remarkable ability to transcend his pastoral role and make a mark in the cinematic world. This year’s awards ceremony, which will be held on December 24, 2024, at the Accra International Conference Centre, features a total of 21 categories, including Best Picture, Directing, and Achievement in Cinematography. Duncan-Williams will be vying for the honor alongside other notable nominees such as Nadia Buari, Jackie Appiah, and Adjetey Anang, further showcasing the dynamic talent that flourishes within Ghana’s thriving film industry. Since its inception in 2010, the Ghana Movie Awards have celebrated exceptional contributions to filmmaking, and this nomination serves as a testament to Duncan-Williams’ versatility and the ever-expanding landscape of Ghanaian cinema. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NPP MP Seeks to Nullify Defective Court Filing on Nsawam-Adoagyiri Election Challenge
Frank Annoh-Dompreh, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri and the Majority Chief Whip, has filed an application to challenge a writ of summons and statement of claim brought against him by Amenorpe Philibert Fummey, the parliamentary candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Apexnewsgh reports Fummey is contesting the results of the Nsawam-Adoagyiri parliamentary elections held on December 7, 2024. Annoh-Dompreh’s lawyer, Gary Nimako Marfo, argues that the court documents filed by Fummey are fundamentally flawed and not recognized under Ghanaian law regarding parliamentary elections. He asserts that to dispute election results, a formal petition must be filed, a process that can only occur after the election results have been officially declared and gazetted. In addition to requesting the dismissal of the writ and statement, Annoh-Dompreh is seeking further relief from the court. He is urging the court to direct the Electoral Commission (EC) to officially collate and declare the results of the parliamentary election as required by law. Moreover, he requests that the Inspector General of Police ensure sufficient security presence at the collation center to safeguard the EC’s constitutional responsibilities during the electoral process. He also seeks any other orders the court finds appropriate. Annoh-Dompreh emphasizes that the issuance of the writ and statement concerning parliamentary elections is not legally valid. He notes that there has been no official declaration in his favor regarding the election results, making it premature for such a challenge to arise. The NPP MP argues that the validity of parliamentary elections can only be questioned through an election petition filed within twenty-one days following the publication of election results in a gazette. In his application, Annoh-Dompreh expresses surprise that there has been no declared result in his favor, which would justify Fummey’s legal challenge. He highlights the lack of any gazette notification from the EC regarding declared results for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, reiterating that a parliamentary election can only be contested through a formal election petition rather than via a writ of summons and statement of claim. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Concerns Over NDC MPs’ Future in Parliament Highlighted by Afenyo-Markin
Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the outgoing Majority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, raised significant concerns regarding the upcoming challenges faced by Members of Parliament (MPs) from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 9th parliament. Apexnewsgh reports As the NDC prepares to implement their strategy for a leaner government, which aims to limit the number of ministers to just 60, many MPs may find themselves without additional roles beyond their parliamentary duties. Afenyo-Markin emphasized that this approach could lead to a troubling situation for approximately 140 NDC MPs, as only about 35-40 are expected to receive ministerial or deputy ministerial appointments. He warned that the resulting lack of responsibilities could foster feelings of frustration among those MPs who will be left to manage their constituency demands with insufficient resources. Drawing from his own experiences under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, Afenyo-Markin expressed his belief that the NDC’s decision might hinder their effectiveness in parliament, regardless of their majority status. “NDC has an overwhelming majority in parliament, yet they have promised a lean government. I can foresee a lot of their MPs being redundant,” he stated. He further elaborated, “Out of their over 170 seats, if 35 or a maximum of 40 MPs serve as ministers and deputy ministers, they will be left with 140 MPs who are largely unutilized in their roles—relegated to merely attending sessions.” As the new parliament session approaches, Afenyo-Markin painted a stark picture of the challenges awaiting NDC MPs. He highlighted the pressing demands from their constituents coupled with the lack of financial support that will likely result from their reduced ministerial appointments. “These MPs will have to contend with their constituents’ needs, yet the financial resources to address those demands will fall short since only a few will hold ministerial roles, leading to potential conflicts,” he warned. With these insights, Afenyo-Markin has left many wondering how the NDC will navigate the complexities of governance while remaining accountable to their constituents in the new parliamentary term. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
ORAL Team Chair Samuel Ablakwa Pledges Cost-Free Operation in Fight Against Corruption
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, recently appointed as the Chairperson of the Organized Reporting and Accountability Leadership (ORAL) Team, has made a significant promise regarding the committee’s operations. Apexnewsgh reports In a statement following their inaugural meeting on December 18, Ablakwa assured the public that the team will function without imposing any financial burden on the state. Established by President-elect John Dramani Mahama, the ORAL Team is tasked with investigating acts of corruption and promoting accountability as Mahama prepares to take office. This initiative aligns closely with Mahama’s anti-corruption agenda, which was a cornerstone of his campaign leading up to the 2024 elections. During the meeting, Ablakwa revealed that all five members of the committee had unanimously agreed to serve pro bono. He confirmed that they would not receive any salaries, allowances, per-diems, or fuel coupons, thereby ensuring that their efforts would not cost taxpayers a dime. “The ORAL Team held its first meeting at 2 pm today and has resolved to work gratis,” Ablakwa stated. “We shall not be receiving salaries, allowances, per-diems, or fuel coupons. None of our activities will come at a cost to the taxpayer. We continue to count on your support; let’s do this for God and Country. Ghana First.” With this commitment, Ablakwa and his team aim to tackle corruption head-on, all while maintaining transparency and fiscal responsibility to the Ghanaian people. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Parliament Demands Answers Over Delayed WASSCE Results Due to Owed Funds
In an urgent session held on December 19, 2024, the Minority in Parliament called for the Finance and Education Ministers to explain the government’s failure to release much-needed funds to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC). Apexnewsgh reports The substantial debt, reportedly exceeding GHS 100 million, has raised serious concerns about WAEC’s ability to carry out its operations effectively. Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, the Ranking Member of the Education Committee, voiced the Minority’s worries during the parliamentary debate. He highlighted that the outstanding debt is causing significant delays in key areas such as equipment maintenance, timely payments to examiners, and ultimately, the release of the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results. “The target date of December 19 for the release of the 2024 results might have to be pushed back,’ Mr. Nortsu-Kotoe warned. “Examiners are threatening to withhold their scripts until they receive their payments.” He underscored the potential repercussions of this delay on students seeking to enroll in tertiary institutions by January 2025. Concluding his remarks, he urged the Speaker to summon both Ministers to present their case in Parliament. “It is crucial that our children and wards are not denied the opportunity to pursue their education because of this financial mismanagement,” he stated emphatically. The call for accountability reflects the growing frustration within the parliamentary minority, as the education sector faces increasing turmoil due to these financial issues.
Urgent Call for Political Financing Reforms in Ghana Amidst Rising Campaign Costs
In a pressing call for change, the Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has urged for a constitutional review to address the alarming rise in political financing costs in Ghana. Apexnewsgh reports This appeal follows the disclosure by Dr. Dickson Adomako Kissi, the Member of Parliament for Anyaa Sowutuom, who revealed that aspiring Parliamentary Candidates are spending an average of GH¢10 million on their campaigns. This excessive financial burden raises concerns about the sustainability of democratic participation in the country. During a recent discussion on the Big Issues, Dr. Kissi shared, “On average, every NPP Member of Parliament who went into this battle may have spent close to GH¢10 million. From primaries to date. GH¢10 million on average. And that is because they had faith and they felt that they could win.” He emphasized the emotional toll of such investments, noting that the loss weighs heavily on those who invest so much in their political ambitions. Dr. Kissi’s sentiments were echoed at a recent event organized by the Ghana Center for Democratic Governance (CDD-Ghana), focused on the lessons learned from the upcoming 2024 elections. CODEO Co-chair Dr. Fred Deegbe pointed out the dire implications of high campaign costs on the integrity of parliamentary candidates. He highlighted that the intense financial pressures often lead to corruption, compelling elected officials to prioritize personal wealth over public service. Dr. Deegbe noted, “It costs over an estimated $600,000 or GH¢10 million for somebody to run for the office of a parliamentarian. If that person gets into power, how will they recoup these expenses? Those who supported their campaigns will expect rewards, which can include kickbacks through contracts or other financial favors.” In light of these challenges, CODEO has called for urgent reforms to regulate political financing, arguing that such measures would alleviate financial barriers to public office, enhance accountability, and ultimately strengthen Ghana’s democracy. As the nation gears up for its elections, the spotlight is firmly on the need for a sustainable approach to political financing, ensuring that the spirit of democracy remains intact and accessible to all. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minority in Parliament Raises Alarm Over $147 Million E-Gate System Deal at Kotoka International Airport
The Minority in Parliament has raised serious concerns regarding the government’s recent decision to partner with a private entity for the implementation of a new E-gate system at Kotoka International Airport (KIA), a project reportedly costing $147 million. Apexnewsgh reports This expenditure has ignited allegations of corruption and a lack of transparency surrounding the agreement. During a press conference held in Accra on Wednesday, Minority Chief Whip Governs Agbodza did not hold back in his criticism of the arrangement, referring to it as a flagrant example of “create, loot, and share.” He expressed bewilderment at the astronomical price tag attached to the E-gate system, especially considering that the construction of the entire airport amounted to $250 million. “Why on earth would we commit $147 million for the E-gate system when building the entire airport cost $250 million?” Agbodza questioned. “This reeks of create, loot, and share. Meanwhile, people are at the Bank of Ghana trying to open accounts to facilitate this dubious financial arrangement.” He further added that the Value for Money (VFM) assessment has not even been released, and there are ongoing efforts by the Immigration Service and the Ministry of Finance to finalize their agreement. Agbodza issued a stern warning: “This is an illegality. I urge the Bank of Ghana and all civil servants involved in making hurried decisions to reconsider their actions and refrain from proceeding with this deal.” Despite not naming the private entity involved, Agbodza noted the entity’s history of securing “soft money” contracts with various government bodies, including the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), the passport office, and the National Identification Authority. He vowed that this time, such practices would not be permitted to continue. Highlighting the importance of the E-gate system as an integral part of airport operations, Agbodza reiterated, “The e-gate cannot be valued at $147 million for the service alone when the complete airport was built for $250 million.” As the controversy unfolds, the Minority’s insistence on transparency and accountability showcases the critical need for oversight regarding public funds and projects. Source: Apexnewsgh.com