Record Deportations Pose Challenge for Trump’s Mass Deportation Pledge
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has reported a record-breaking 271,484 deportations to 192 countries over the past 12 months, the highest annual tally in a decade. This surge, nearly double the previous year’s count, poses significant financial and operational challenges for President-elect Donald Trump’s promise of mass deportations. ICE’s increased deportation flights, including weekend flights, and streamlined travel procedures for individuals being sent to Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, contributed to the rise. Notably, ICE had its first large flight to China in six years and made stops in various countries, including Albania, Angola, and India. Meanwhile, U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported 46,612 arrests for illegal border crossings from Mexico in November, an 18% decrease from the previous month. This decline is attributed to increased enforcement by Mexican authorities and stricter asylum restrictions introduced by President Joe Biden in June. Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras were the top destinations for deportees, with Mexico receiving the largest number (87,298). These countries are expected to continue bearing the brunt of deportations due to their governments’ willingness to accept their citizens and the relatively easier logistics. However, ICE faces significant challenges in carrying out mass deportations, including limited detention space and staff. The agency’s enforcement and removals unit has remained steady at around 6,000 officers over the past decade, while its caseload has quadrupled to 7.6 million. To address detention space constraints, the state of Texas has offered rural land as a staging area.
Israeli Settlers Vandalize Mosque in West Bank, Sparking Outrage
Israeli settlers set fire to and vandalized a mosque in the West Bank city of Marda, leaving behind a trail of hate-filled graffiti. The attackers, caught on security cameras, spray-painted slurs and threatening slogans on the mosque’s walls, including “Death to Arabs” and a quote from the Hebrew Bible’s book of Psalms. The mosque’s imam and local residents were left reeling from the attack, which they described as a “systematic terror attack” carried out by settler groups. The Israeli police and security agency Shin Bet have condemned the incident, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice. Meanwhile, tensions in the region continue to escalate, with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launching airstrikes against Houthi militant targets in Yemen. The IDF reported that it hit fuel and oil tanks, two power plants, and eight tugboats, severely harming the military operations of the Houthi forces. In another development, Sweden announced that it would be ending its funding for the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA), citing Israeli lawmakers’ ban on the agency’s operations in Gaza. The decision has been met with disappointment from UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini, who warned that it would double the suffering of Palestine refugees. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of at least 45,000 Palestinians, with more than half of them being women and children. The war was triggered by a Hamas terror attack on Israel in October 2023, which killed 1,200 people and led to the capture of 250 hostages.
Trump Vows to End Gaza War, Issues Stern Warning to Hamas
President-elect Donald Trump has expressed his eagerness to bring a swift end to the war in Gaza, even as the outgoing Biden administration scrambles to secure a ceasefire deal. Trump’s warning to Hamas has sent shockwaves throughout the region, with many analysts interpreting it as a signal of a more aggressive approach to resolving the conflict. Speaking earlier this week, Trump issued a stern ultimatum to Hamas, stating that if the hostages held by the militant group are not released by January 20, 2025, his inauguration day, “all hell is going to break out.” This warning is reminiscent of a threat he made on social media earlier this month, in which he vowed that those responsible for the atrocities in the Middle East would face severe consequences. While Trump’s plans for Gaza remain unclear, analysts speculate that he may deploy military resources to pressure Hamas. Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, suggests that Trump’s approach may not be significantly harsher than the measures already taken by Israel. However, Alkhatib notes that Trump may explore other options, such as squeezing humanitarian aid or pressuring countries that support Hamas to cut off financing. Trump’s warnings have been seen as a clear message to Hamas and its supporters that the US is committed to resolving the conflict. David Makovsky, director of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy Project on the Middle East Peace Process, believes that Trump’s statements have sent an “unmistakable message” to the region that the US is eager to bring an end to the war. As Trump prepares to take office, his stance on Gaza has already begun to shape the calculations of combatants in the region. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu must now navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries, balancing the demands of his ultraright-wing coalition partners with the expectations of Trump, who is eager to secure a breakthrough with Saudi Arabia. With Trump’s inauguration just around the corner, the world waits with bated breath to see how he will tackle the complex and deeply entrenched conflict in Gaza. One thing is certain, however: Trump’s bold warnings have set the stage for a dramatic and potentially transformative period in the region’s history.
Preachers Turned Vandals: Court Sentences Man to 5 Years for Damaging MPs’ Vehicles
In a shocking turn of events, 33-year-old Christopher Kofi Okyere Sorkpa, a preacher from Kasoa, has been sentenced to five years in prison for vandalizing four vehicles belonging to Members of Parliament. Apexnewsgh reports The incident occurred on December 18, 2024, within the premises of Parliament, where Sorkpa and his accomplice, 41-year-old Wisdom Ahli, also a preacher, damaged the windscreens of two V8s, a Toyota Camry, and a RAV4 using an earth chisel concealed in a handbag. Sorkpa pleaded guilty to all charges and received a three-year prison sentence on the first count and five years on five additional counts, with the sentences running concurrently. His accomplice, Ahli, also pleaded guilty to the first count, but the court instructed prosecutors to amend their charge against him. Ahli’s trial has been adjourned to January 9, 2025, for further proceedings. The court’s decision serves as a reminder that vandalism is a serious offense, and perpetrators will face the consequences of their actions. As noted in similar cases, proportionality is key in sentencing, ensuring that the punishment fits the crime. In this instance, the court has sent a strong message that destructive behavior will not be tolerated. Preachers Turned Vandals: Court Sentences Man to 5 Years for Damaging MPs’ Vehicles. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s ORAL Team Takes On National Service Ghost Names Scandal
The Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) team, under the leadership of Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, is gearing up to tackle a significant corruption issue that has plagued Ghana: the National Service ghost names scandal. Apexnewsgh reports Recent revelations from a dossier presented by The Fourth Estate and the Media Foundation for West Africa have unveiled that this scandal has cost the country over GHS500 million Ghanaian cedis. In response to the presentation, Ablakwa took to Facebook on Friday to express his heartfelt gratitude to both organizations for their unwavering commitment to patriotism. “We are extremely grateful to The Fourth Estate and the Media Foundation for West Africa for the presentation and their exceptional patriotism. Together, we shall reset Ghana and recover all loot,” he affirmed. The ORAL team is dedicated to investigating these fraudulent activities that have led to substantial financial losses for the nation. The insights contained within the dossier will serve as a pivotal tool in their mission to recover the misappropriated funds and to bring those responsible to justice. This initiative is part of a larger movement aimed at combating corruption and enhancing transparency in Ghana’s public sector. With the support of both local and international experts, the ORAL team strives to restore public trust in governmental institutions, ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately for the benefit of all Ghanaians. The team comprises a diverse group of experts, including former Auditor-General Daniel Domelevo, retired Police Commissioner COP (Rtd.) Nathaniel Kofi Boakye, private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu, and investigative journalist Raymond Archer, all united in their resolve to tackle this pressing issue and reclaim the nation’s lost resources. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NDC Promises Swift Action on 2025 Expenditure Needs After Taking Office
In a recent statement, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader in Parliament, has assured Ghanaians that a National Democratic Congress (NDC) government will promptly address expenditure needs for the first quarter of 2025, following their assumption of office on January 7. Apexnewsgh reports This reassurance comes on the heels of the Finance Minister’s failure to present a mini budget for 2025, which has left uncertainty surrounding financial arrangements for the early months of the year. Addressing the press in Parliament after the House adjourned until January 2, Dr. Forson criticized the outgoing government for its lack of preparedness, labeling the situation as a significant governance failure. He highlighted the potential repercussions of the absence of a mini-budget, warning that it could disrupt essential services and obligations, ultimately placing the burden on ordinary citizens. Dr. Forson emphasized that Ghanaians would hold the outgoing Akufo-Addo administration accountable for any unfulfilled commitments or disruptions stemming from inadequate financial planning. He reiterated the NDC’s pledge to act with urgency, ensuring that the economy maintains stability and that all necessary expenditures are met once they take office. The Minority Leader reaffirmed his dedication to protecting the interests of Ghanaians and vowed that proactive measures would be taken to prevent additional hardship. Furthermore, he urged the outgoing government to take responsibility for its actions, ensuring that the transition period does not lead to unnecessary economic challenges for the nation. “However, the NDC Minority Caucus would like to assure the good people of Ghana and all stakeholders that the NDC government that will take over on the 7th of January 2025, will act with dispatch to cater for expenditure for the first quarter of 2025,” Dr. Forson stated confidently. He also offered reassurances regarding the transition, noting, “There is no cause for alarm! Even though there will be no Minister of Finance on January 7, 2025, the Vice President can present to this House the expenditure in advance of Appropriation any time after swearing-in on the 7, and Parliament will be properly constituted to expedite approval of the same.” With these commitments, Dr. Forson aims to instill confidence in Ghanaians during this uncertain time, promising a swift and effective response from the incoming NDC government. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Court Dismisses NDC’s Bid to Halt Re-collation of Parliamentary Results, Upholding Electoral Integrity
The Accra High Court has dismissed an application by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) that sought to place an injunction on the Electoral Commission (EC) from re-collating parliamentary results in nine contested constituencies. Apexnewsgh reports The court underscored its commitment to electoral integrity, stating that it cannot endorse any results declared under duress, as such actions would compromise the credibility of Ghana’s electoral process. The tension arose after the EC decided to disregard results from nine specific constituencies, citing disruptions and irregularities that marred the collation process. The constituencies in question are Ablekuma North, Okaikwei Central, Tema Central, Dome Kwabenya, Nsawam Adoagyiri, and Techiman South. The EC reported that the disturbances were instigated by supporters of political parties who invaded collation centers, resulting in property damage and intimidation of staff. In some instances, the incidents escalated to vandalism, including the destruction of vital electronic equipment used in the vote collation. In its judgment, the High Court emphasized that upholding results declared under duress would undermine the integrity of Ghana’s electoral system. The court’s ruling now paves the way for the EC to initiate the re-collation of results in the implicated constituencies, a move that the commission has welcomed. The EC expressed its dedication to carrying out the re-collation process transparently and fairly, assuring the public that it would faithfully represent the will of the people. However, the NDC has voiced its disappointment with the court’s decision, accusing the EC of bias and alleging an attempt to skew the electoral process in favor of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The party has vowed to explore all available legal avenues to contest the ruling, indicating that the political battle over the disputed results is far from over. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Parliament Adjourns Without Mini-Budget, Sparking Concerns Over Fiscal Stability
Parliament has adjourned its final session of the year without the anticipated presentation of the 2025 Mini-Budget. Apexnewsgh reports This has raised serious concerns regarding the government’s fiscal preparedness and the possibility of a shutdown starting January 1, 2025. The Mini-Budget, a constitutional requirement, was expected to detail essential strategies for revenue generation, expenditure priorities, and maintaining fiscal stability for the incoming administration. However, Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam’s failure to present this crucial document left many questions unanswered. In light of the situation, Speaker Alban Bagbin made the decision to adjourn parliamentary proceedings until Thursday, January 2, 2024. Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson expressed his disappointment, accusing the outgoing administration of neglecting its responsibilities. He emphasized that the outgoing president should have acted in good faith, as outlined in Article 180 of the Constitution, by providing a proposal for expenditures to cover the first quarter of 2025. “Regrettably, President Akufo-Addo has planned to leave public service without provision for the first quarter of 2025,” Dr. Forson stated, assuring Ghanaians that the incoming National Democratic Congress (NDC) government would swiftly address the issue after taking office on January 7, 2025. Meanwhile, Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin attributed the delay in the presentation of the Mini-Budget to what he characterized as disruptive actions from the Minority. He reassured that the Finance Minister would present an Expenditure in Advance of Appropriation Bill when Parliament reconvenes in January, aiming to provide a path forward despite the current uncertainties. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
ORAL: Official Website, Email, Contact Launched to Receive More Reports on Corruption Related Case
In a decisive move to tackle corruption, President-elect John Dramani Mahama’s Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) team has unveiled secure platforms designed to gather information on suspected corruption cases. The initiative was announced on Friday, December 20, by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the spokesperson for Mahama’s Transition Team, through an official circular. To facilitate public involvement, the ORAL team has established multiple confidential channels for individuals to report acts of corruption. Citizens can now submit reports via a toll-free number (0800 900 111), an official website (www.oralgh.org), or through email (public@oralgh.org), all while ensuring their safety and anonymity. Kwakye Ofosu reassured the public that these platforms prioritize security and confidentiality, protecting informants from any potential reprisals. Emphasizing the importance of their mission, Kwakye Ofosu highlighted that the team is committed to handling all submissions with “utmost discretion” and promises to act swiftly on any reported cases. The ORAL initiative, which officially launched on December 18, is spearheaded by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa as its chairman and forms a critical part of a broader strategy aimed at combating systemic corruption and financial impropriety within the public sector. As Mahama prepares to assume office, the ORAL initiative signals a strong commitment to transparency and accountability, reflecting a hopeful step towards restoring integrity in governance. Below is the full detail Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Akufo-Addo’s Former Bolga MCE Breaks Silence Following NPP’s Election Abysmal Performance
In the wake of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) disappointing performance in the 2024 general elections, Joseph Atura Amiyuure, a former Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) under the Akufo-Addo administration, has broken his silence. Apexnewsgh reports Amiyuure recently faced backlash after making suggestions to President John Mahama regarding the need for systemic change in governance. Taking to Facebook, Amiyuure expressed his concerns about the ongoing issues of corruption that have persisted through different administrations. He reminded Ghanaians of Mahama’s campaign promise to combat corruption and urged the President to consider his suggestions to bring an end to these malpractices. “Certain things occurred during the tenure of the NDC and have continued under the NPP. As a concerned Ghanaian, I believe it is my right to offer suggestions,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to see improvements in the country’s political landscape. “Unfortunately, I find myself under attack from individuals who, in my view, have never held any executive position. Their responses have even turned personal.” Amiyuure criticized the arrogance and disdain displayed by some party members towards those who voiced their concerns. He pointed out that this attitude had alienated many within the party, leading to a loss of support. “In their arrogance, they believed the party could thrive without the contributions of all its members. Now, the consequences of that mindset are evident,” he lamented. Reflecting on the importance of unity, Amiyuure called for an end to the intolerance and disrespect that has contributed to the current state of disarray within the party. “Leaders play a crucial role in maintaining party cohesion, and it is vital that we listen to diverse perspectives,” he added. In closing, he acknowledged that his post may have been complex for some but stood firm in his belief that constructive dialogue is necessary for the future of Ghana. “I apologize if my message was not understood by all, but my intent was focused on fostering a system change for the benefit of all Ghanaians.” Amiyuure’s call for reflection and change echoes a broader sentiment among many Ghanaians, who are eager for a political landscape that prioritizes unity and accountability. Source: Apexnewsgh.com