Baba Sadiq’s Fate Hangs in Balance as Court Orders Recount in Okaikwei Central Constituency
Baba Sadiq, the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) Parliamentary Candidate for Okaikwei Central Constituency, will have to wait until Monday, January 6, 2025, to know if his earlier declaration as MP-elect will stand. Apexnewsgh reports This comes after the High Court in Accra ordered the Electoral Commission (EC) to collate the 31 outstanding polling station results of Okaikwei Central Constituency and declare the winner. The court’s decision follows an application for Mandamus by Patrick Yaw Boamah, the incumbent MP of the area, who contested the earlier declaration of Baba Sadiq as the winner. Boamah argued that 31 polling stations had not been collated at the time of the declaration, and therefore, the results were incomplete. The High Court, presided over by Justice Forson Baah Agyapong, upheld Boamah’s request and ordered the EC to collate the outstanding results and declare the winner by January 6, 2025. The court also directed the Inspector General of Police to provide adequate security at all collation centers to ensure the EC performs its public function. Baba Sadiq had earlier been declared the winner of the Okaikwei Central Constituency, securing 15,383 votes to defeat Patrick Boamah, who garnered 14,949 votes. However, with the court’s ruling, the outcome of the election is now uncertain, and Baba Sadiq’s fate hangs in the balance. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ethiopia Evacuates 80,000 People Amid Series of Earthquakes and Fears of Volcanic Eruptions
A series of small-scale earthquakes has struck Ethiopia’s Afar, Oromia, and Amhara regions, prompting the government to evacuate approximately 80,000 people. Apexnewsgh reports At least 10 earthquakes have been reported since Friday, with signs of possible volcanic activity raising concerns among authorities and residents. The latest earthquakes shook the Awash Fentale district, which stretches between the Afar and Oromia regions, at 3:52 a.m. on Saturday. The United States Geological Survey recorded a 5.8-magnitude earthquake about 56 kilometers southeast of Ambosa, in the Oromia region. Atalay Ayele, head of the Seismology Department at Addis Ababa University, confirmed that the epicenter was in the middle of Dofen Mountain, Awash Fentale district, in the Afar region. A second tremor, measuring 4.7, was reported hours later, about 10 kilometers east of Awash in the Afar region. According to the federal government, the earthquakes are increasing in size and frequency, with data showing an earthquake measuring up to 5.8 on the Richter scale. The earthquake was felt in the capital, Addis Ababa, and cities such as Adama and Metehara, with residents living in condos and high-rise buildings also reporting feeling the tremors. As many as two dozen quakes and aftershocks have been reported in Awash Fentale district since September, according to residents and officials. The frequent quakes have created a natural hot spring water crater in the Afar region, which is reportedly widening. While no casualties have been reported, the quakes have damaged dozens of homes in Afar. The government has deployed emergency workers to assess the damage and evacuate the most vulnerable residents. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with experts in the field working to identify the epicenter of the earthquake and potential volcanic activity. Fears of volcanic eruptions have been raised after smoke was seen coming from vents in the Dofen volcano, signaling potential volcanic activity. The government has assured that it is making great efforts to identify the most vulnerable residents and evacuate them from the area, while also monitoring the possible impact of the earthquake on social service institutions, economic institutions, and infrastructure. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Gbese Stool Warns Against Unauthorized Rebuilding on Katamanto Lands
The Gbese Stool, led by Paramount Chief Nii Ayi Bonte II, has issued a stern warning against constructing wooden structures on the Katamanto lands without permission. Apexnewsgh reports The chief reiterated the stool’s claim to the land and announced plans to collaborate with investors to develop the area, maximizing its potential and utility. During a press conference, Nii Ayi Bonte II expressed sympathy for the victims of the recent fire outbreak that ravaged the Kantamanto Market in Accra. However, he firmly stated that unauthorized rebuilding activities would not be tolerated. To ensure compliance, the Gbese Stool has established a task force to oversee the removal of unapproved structures from the land. The devastating fire, which occurred on January 2, 2025, left traders in despair as they counted their losses. The market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of goods, was reduced to ashes in a matter of hours. The scene was one of heartbreak and chaos, with traders sifting through the charred remains of their stalls, hoping to salvage anything of value. Nii Ayi Bonte II emphasized that the land has an owner and that no one should take the law into their hands by building wooden structures without permission. He warned that anyone who has put up structures without permission should pull them down, as the task force will ensure that no illegal structures are erected. The Gbese Stool plans to bring in investors from April to develop the area, and the chief urged everyone to cooperate to achieve this goal. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President’s Aide-De-Camp Stable After Fainting During State of the Nation Address
In a dramatic turn of events, Colonel Isaac Amponsah, the Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to President Akufo-Addo, collapsed during the President’s final State of the Nation Address in Parliament on Friday. Apexnewsgh reports Fortunately, Col. Amponsah received immediate medical attention on-site and was later transported to the 37 Military Hospital for further evaluation. After a thorough assessment, Col. Amponsah has been discharged and is now resting at home, according to a source at the Jubilee House. Although the exact cause of the collapse has not been officially confirmed, medical professionals suggest that it was likely due to stress and prolonged standing. Col. Amponsah has had a distinguished career, serving as President Akufo-Addo’s ADC since February 2023, after his predecessor, Bismark Onwona, was promoted to Major General. Prior to assuming this role, he worked as an instructor at the Military Training Academy and with the Defence Intelligence Unit of the Ghana Armed Forces. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama’s Inauguration: All Set for a Grand Ceremony
The stage is set for the inauguration of President-elect John Dramani Mahama, scheduled to take place on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at the Black Star Square in Accra. Apexnewsgh reports The planning committee has outlined a comprehensive plan for seating and security arrangements to ensure a smooth and memorable event. Event Layout and Security The Black Star Square will be divided into three designated zones: – Zone 1: Parliamentary Sitting Area – Restricted to invited guests, with access granted upon presentation of an invitation card. – Zone 2: Public Stands – Open to the public, with strict security and safety measures in place. Large LED screens will be set up to provide better visibility of the event. – Zone 3: Media Area – A designated space for accredited journalists, equipped with necessary facilities to support media coverage. Traffic and Parking Arrangements To ensure smooth movement during the event, several roads in Accra will be temporarily closed. Motorists are advised to take note of the following changes: – Road Closures: 28th February Road, Osu Cemetery Traffic Light, Castle Road, and Starlet 91 Road will be closed. – Diverted Routes: Traffic will be diverted to alternative routes including Salem Avenue, Oxford Street, and Liberia Road. – Car Parks: Designated car parks will be available at the back of the Independence Arch, the Forecourt of the State House, and the Access Bank Car Park. International Participation The inauguration will be attended by a host of international dignitaries, including ten heads of state, two vice presidents, one speaker of parliament, two former presidents, and numerous heads of international organizations. Notably, US President Joe Biden has announced a presidential delegation to attend the inauguration, led by Shalanda D. Young, Director of the United States Office of Management and Budget.¹ Media Accreditation Over 700 media accreditation applications have been submitted, and accredited journalists will have access to designated areas. A clean feed will be provided for all TV stations and channels to ensure centralized TV production. Source: Apexnewsghcom
NDC Appeals High Court Ruling on Mandamus Applications
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has filed a notice of appeal at the Court of Appeal, challenging the Accra High Court’s ruling on the mandamus applications brought by the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Apexnewsgh reports This move comes after the High Court ordered the Electoral Commission (EC) to finalize the collation of results in four disputed constituencies: Tema Central, Ablekuma North, Okaikwei Central, and Techiman South. The High Court’s ruling, issued on January 4, 2025, directed the EC to complete the collation process by January 6, 2025. The court’s decision was based on mandamus applications filed by NPP candidates in these constituencies, who sought to compel the EC to finalize the collation process. Justice Forson Agyapong, who presided over the case, outlined the legal requirements for granting mandamus applications. He emphasized that applicants must demonstrate a lack or excess of jurisdiction, an error of law, failure to follow natural justice, or failure to perform a public duty. The NDC has expressed dissatisfaction with the High Court’s orders and their implications for the disputed constituencies. The party’s appeal challenges the court’s decisions issued on both January 1 and January 4, 2025. According to Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, lead counsel for the NDC, the party anticipated the court’s decision and was prepared to file an appeal. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Biden Appoints High-Level Delegation for Ghana’s Presidential Inauguration
US President Joe Biden has named a high-powered delegation to attend the inauguration of Ghana’s President-elect, John Dramani Mahama, on January 7, 2025, in Accra. Leading the delegation is Shalanda D. Young, Director of the United States Office of Management and Budget. Apexnewsgh reports The delegation includes notable officials such as Virginia E. Palmer, US Ambassador to Ghana; Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles; and Frances Z. Brown, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for African Affairs. The inauguration ceremony, to be held at the iconic Black Star Square in Accra, marks a historic return to power for Mahama following his decisive victory in Ghana’s December 7 elections. Outgoing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will officially hand over power to Mahama during the event, which is expected to attract global dignitaries. President-elect Mahama has pledged to initiate a transformative agenda for Ghana, focusing on key areas such as: a. Establishing a 24-hour economy: to stimulate job creation and economic growth b. Launching a Women Development Bank: to support female entrepreneurs with low-interest loans -c. Improving accessibility to tertiary education: especially for vulnerable groups The inauguration is set to celebrate Ghana’s democratic maturity and commitment to peaceful transitions of power, reinforcing its standing as a stable and progressive nation in the region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Faces Daunting Task as Agenda 111 Hospital Project Needs $1.4 Billion to Complete
Incoming President John Dramani Mahama is set to inherit a monumental challenge from outgoing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo – completing the ambitious Agenda 111 hospital infrastructure project. Apexnewsgh reports The initiative, launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to construct 111 district and regional hospitals, including two psychiatric facilities, to address critical healthcare infrastructure gaps. However, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), revealed on Facebook that an estimated $1.4 billion is required to complete the project. This staggering amount underscores the significant resources needed to bring the project to fruition. Dr. Boamah also noted that none of the Agenda 111 hospitals are currently functioning, emphasizing the project’s incomplete status. During his final State of the Nation Address, President Akufo-Addo urged President-elect Mahama to prioritize completing the Agenda 111 projects. Akufo-Addo highlighted the project’s transformative potential, describing it as a cornerstone of Ghana’s healthcare development. Despite progress, with work underway at 99 district sites and two psychiatric hospitals, the pace of construction varies widely, with completion rates ranging from 5% to 95% across sites. The NDC has criticized the handling of the project, citing concerns about its financial burden and incomplete status. Nevertheless, President Akufo-Addo expressed hope that the Mahama government would see the project through to completion, ensuring it contributes to strengthening Ghana’s healthcare system. As President-elect Mahama prepares to take office, the nation will closely watch how his administration tackles this critical aspect of Ghana’s healthcare infrastructure. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ministry of National Security Announces Drone Ban for Presidential Inauguration
The Ministry of National Security has issued a strict prohibition on the operation of all drones within the Black Star Square and its surrounding areas on January 7, 2025, the date of the Presidential Inauguration ceremony. Apexnewsgh reports This directive is aimed at ensuring the safety and security of dignitaries, guests, and members of the public attending the event. The Ministry emphasized the importance of this measure in creating a secure environment for the inauguration, urging drone operators to comply with the directive to support overall security measures. This move is not unprecedented, as many countries have implemented regulations to manage drone operations in urban areas, balancing safety and efficiency concerns. To stay informed about the event, citizens are encouraged to follow official communication channels for updates and further details. The ban on drone operations is a precautionary measure to guarantee a secure and successful Presidential Inauguration ceremony. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Thieves Strike Again: Tamale Buffer Stock Warehouse Ransacked
In a devastating blow to the School Feeding Program, a buffer stock warehouse in Tamale was ransacked by unknown thieves on the night of Friday, January 3rd. Apexnewsgh reports The thieves made off with a significant quantity of food supplies, including beans, corn, gallons of oil, and mackerel, leaving the warehouse virtually empty. The incident has caused significant disruption to the vital program, which relies on these food supplies to feed students. What’s more alarming is that this is not the first time the warehouse has been targeted. A previous incident occurred on December 8, 2024, where several bags of rice and cooking oil were allegedly stolen. Suspicions are mounting that the theft may have been carried out by party foot soldiers, given its occurrence shortly after the recent elections and the concession of defeat by the NPP presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. A group of selected SHS Headmasters and members of CHASS visited the warehouse to assess the damage, and what they found was a scene of devastation, with empty shelves and signs of forced entry. The authorities are working diligently to apprehend the remaining perpetrators and recover the stolen food supplies. Four suspects have already been arrested in connection with the latest incident and are currently assisting the police with their investigations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com