The path has been cleared for the National Council of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to endorse Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO, as the running mate for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming December 7 elections. This development follows a series of crucial consultations by the party’s flagbearer, culminating in the acceptance of Dr. Opoku Prempeh by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the NPP Majority in Parliament. In preparation for the formal presentation of his running mate to the party’s National Council, Dr. Bawumia held a strategic meeting on Sunday evening with Dr. Opoku Prempeh and Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, commonly referred to as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP. The meeting aimed to resolve any differences between the two and to strategize for the upcoming campaign. Majority Caucus Backs NAPO On Friday, June 28, 2024, Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin confirmed the caucus’s full support for Dr. Bawumia’s choice of NAPO as his running mate. Speaking to Citi FM, Mr. Afenyo-Markin revealed that the party’s leadership had a comprehensive discussion with Dr. Bawumia regarding his selection. “Yes, the leader of our party and flagbearer met with the leadership of Parliament and had an extensive engagement with us, regarding the way forward for the party going into the 2024 elections. The conclusion was that our respected colleague, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, is his choice for running mate. This is normally the practice, and out of respect, the caucus would have to be informed and engaged about the decision,” he stated. He added, “After, I proceeded and engaged the caucus, and so far, the feedback has been positive. The generality of the caucus members is in support of his choice. What it is, is that for it to become official or confirmed, there’s going to be a national council meeting. From what he tells us, it appears that there’s going to be a general consensus on that, and that will be no problem" "We also enquired from him about the views of the President on it, and it was very positive. So, this means that the various organs have been engaged with the information and that everything is set for our brother, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, to join him to hold the flag of the party for the 2024 elections.” Strategic Unity The meeting between Dr. Bawumia, Dr. Opoku Prempeh, and Chairman Wontumi underscores the strategic unity within the NPP as they prepare for the upcoming elections. By addressing any potential conflicts and aligning their strategies, the party aims to present a united front to the electorate. With the formal endorsement of Dr. Opoku Prempeh as the running mate anticipated soon, the NPP is poised to kick off a vigorous campaign for the December 7 elections. The party’s leadership is confident that this strategic partnership will resonate with voters and strengthen their bid for another term in office. Story by: Thinknewsonline

In a bold call for constitutional reform, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has urged for an amendment to the 1992 Constitution to permit chiefs to engage in active politics. Speaking on June 30th, during his visit to the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Bagbin emphasized the pivotal role of chiefs in national development and criticized the current restrictions that prevent them from participating in political activities. Article 276 of the 1992 Constitution stipulates: “(1) A chief shall not take part in active party politics; and any chief wishing to do so and seeking election to Parliament shall abdicate his stool or skin; (2) Notwithstanding clause (1) of this article and paragraph (c) of clause (3) of article 94 of this Constitution, a chief may be appointed to any public office of which he is otherwise qualified.” Mr. Bagbin, however, argued that this provision needs revision to better reflect the realities and developmental needs of the country. “The 1992 Constitution has stabilized democracy in Ghana but there is a lot for us to do to refine it to better suit our situation. I want to call on the future government to take this seriously, we need to amend the 1992 Constitution,” Bagbin asserted. He elaborated on his disagreement with the current stance, stating, “I disagree with those who say that our chiefs should not participate in active politics. Politics is about development, the chiefs lead the development, and you say they should not participate in it yet the politicians every day are knocking at their doors.” This call for change was made during a public lecture at the Great Hall of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), marking the beginning of the 30th-anniversary celebrations in the Ashanti region. Mr. Bagbin was accompanied by his spouse, the Second Deputy Speaker, MPs from the region, the Clerk to Parliament, two Deputy Clerks, and several staff members of the Parliamentary Service. Expressing his gratitude to the Asantehene for his wise counsel over the years, Bagbin assured that he would strive to remain transparent and accountable to the electorate and all Ghanaians as he leads the 8th Parliament to a successful conclusion. In his response, the Asantehene cautioned politicians against the excessive monetization of the electoral process, highlighting that such practices foster corruption. He also urged MPs to maintain regular contact with their constituents to ensure a harmonious relationship between the governed and the governing. As the nation reflects on this significant proposition, the discourse on amending the 1992 Constitution to incorporate the active political participation of chiefs is poised to become a pivotal issue in Ghana’s ongoing democratic evolution. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Accra Sports Stadium was the epicenter of divine melodies and joyous celebration as Joe Mettle captivated audiences with his highly anticipated Praise Reloaded 2024 Gospel Show on June 30. The event, which drew a near-capacity crowd, was a harmonious blend of music, faith, and fellowship, marking yet another milestone in the illustrious career of the renowned gospel artist. Among the notable attendees were celebrities, influential bloggers, and the Member of Parliament for the Ningo Prampram Constituency, Sam Dzata George. Their presence added a layer of prestige to an already star-studded event, emphasizing the broad appeal and cultural significance of Praise Reloaded. The evening kicked off with an electrifying atmosphere as the audience eagerly awaited the performances. Gospel musicians on the bill did not disappoint, delivering soul-stirring renditions that resonated deeply with the crowd. Each act brought their unique flavor to the stage, creating a rich tapestry of worship and praise that left the audience yearning for more. Joe Mettle, the man of the hour, took to the stage with a commanding presence. His performance was a masterclass in gospel music, showcasing his exceptional vocal prowess and heartfelt connection with the audience. From the moment he began to the final note, Mettle's passion and dedication to his craft were palpable, earning him thunderous applause and adoration from fans. Highlights of the evening included powerful performances of some of Mettle's most beloved hits, as well as new compositions that were met with enthusiasm and praise. The synergy between the musicians and the audience was undeniable, creating a collective experience of worship that transcended the confines of the stadium. The Praise Reloaded 2024 Gospel Show was more than just a concert; it was a testament to the power of music to unite and uplift. Joe Mettle's ability to bring together diverse groups of people under one banner of praise is a reflection of his impact on the gospel music scene and his unwavering commitment to spreading the message of faith through song. As the final notes echoed through the stadium, it was clear that Praise Reloaded 2024 had left an indelible mark on all who attended. Joe Mettle's exceptional performance, coupled with the support of fellow gospel artists and distinguished guests, ensured that this year's edition will be remembered as one of the most successful and inspiring gospel shows in recent memory. In the wake of such a memorable event, fans and attendees alike are already looking forward to what Joe Mettle has in store for future editions of Praise Reloaded, confident that he will continue to raise the bar and touch hearts with his music. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President Joe Biden is three years and seven months older than former President Donald Trump. In their debate Thursday night on CNN, the gap between the 81-year-old incumbent and his 78-year-old challenger seemed much larger. Biden, hoarse and displaying little vocal range, was often unable to express his differences with Trump with clarity. At one point, after Biden had trailed off as he defended his record on border security, Trump said: “I really don’t know what he said at the end of that sentence. I don’t think he knows what he said, either.” Trump, meanwhile, at times repeated his frequent election denialism. He said he’d accept the results of the 2024 election if it’s “fair and legal,” but then repeated his lies about fraud in the 2020 election. “You’re a whiner, and you lost the first time,” Biden said. It was the first time either man had debated since 2020, and they made history Thursday night: It was the first time a sitting president and a former president had ever debated. The two clashed over abortion, immigration, foreign policy, inflation and more. Their showdown took a bitter and personal turn. Biden highlighted Trump’s criminal convictions. Trump responded by invoking Biden’s son, Hunter, who was also recently convicted. Then Biden accused Trump of having sex with porn star Stormy Daniels while Trump’s wife was pregnant. “I didn’t have sex with a porn star,” Trump said. Here are 11 takeaways from the CNN debate in Atlanta, moderated by Jake Tapper and Dana Bash: Biden’s age problem just got a lot worse The most important job for Biden on Thursday night was to put to rest voters’ concerns about his biggest vulnerability — his age — and turn the election into a referendum on Trump. He failed to do so. Biden was hoarse and at times unintelligible. Words often ran together. He stumbled, particularly when he tried to cite statistics and legislation. He rarely raised his voice to hammer home points of emphasis — missing opportunities to attack Trump over his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, his Supreme Court appointments that led to the reversal of Roe v. Wade’s abortion rights protections and more. Two campaign sources said Biden has had a cold in recent days. Though the Democratic primary is long over, his performance is sure to lead to more hand-wringing among party members over whether handing Biden a second nomination with only nominal opposition was the right move. It also raises the stakes for September 10, when Biden and Trump are set to meet for their second and, as of now, final, debate, hosted by ABC. Trump pulls (some of) his punches on Biden For a candidate who regularly attacks Biden on his age, Trump was fairly restrained during the president’s numerous stumbles. About 20 minutes into the debate, Trump followed a Biden remark with a quick snipe, saying, “I really don’t know what he said at the end of that sentence. I don’t think he does either.” It was the exception that proved the rule – and history suggests it was a kind of self- or campaign-imposed rule on Thursday night for Trump to not be seen taunting or mocking Biden’s difficulties. Four years ago, the first general election debate of the cycle was a mess for Trump, who constantly interrupted Biden and shouted over the moderators. If not exactly a lesson learned, then his tone in Atlanta was a correction designed to erase memory of that damaging, helter-skelter performance. When Biden stumbled over a question about the national debt, trying to explain the benefits of raising taxes on the super-rich before losing steam and concluding with the declaration that “We finally beat Medicare,” there was a sense that Trump would pounce. He had his eyes trained on the president and his lips pursed for much of the rambling, difficult-to-discern answer. He almost winced at one point. But Trump then did a most un-Trump-like thing: he responded like a typical politician. “Well, he’s right: he did beat Medicare,” Trump said, “He beat it to death.” Then he continued on, railing about Biden’s immigration policy. People watch the debate in Washington, DC. Questions over Biden’s goal Besides Biden’s physical shortcomings Thursday night – a voice that failed him, a diminished appearance and a split screen face that was widely shared online – it wasn’t readily clear after 90 minutes what objectives he entered the evening hoping to achieve. Unlike in their first meetings four years ago, when Biden put Trump’s record under the microscope and offered a more hopeful vision for the country, his message Thursday was muddled and not just by his struggles finishing a thought. Biden was clearly on defense most of the night, but that was to be expected, as he is the incumbent. But his explanation for his record was often deep in the weeds of the policy of his first term and fell short of evoking the “Middle Class Joe” image he cultivated for years. His attacks on Trump were similarly uneven, and he struggled to fact check the former president on his lies — even ones that had been repeated for years. On the biggest issue for Democrats – abortion – Biden flailed. At times, his retorts were bogged down in statistics that were hard to follow, like this riff on the former president’s tax cuts for the wealthy: President Joe Biden flips through his notes during the debate in Atlanta. “We have 1,000 trillionaires in America, billionaires in America, and what’s happening, they’re in a situation where they in fact, pay 8.2% in taxes. If they just paid 24% or 25% – either one of those numbers when they raise $500 million, billion dollars, I should say, in a 10-year period. We’d be able to wipe out his debt.” At another point, he said Trump “is the only president other than Herbert Hoover, who had lost more jobs than he had when he began since Herbert Hoover.” His canned rejoinders leaned on the collective thought of nameless constitutional scholars, historians and Nobel laureate economists to drive home his points. Biden is hardly the first incumbent to be tripped up by the initial debate.  But his aides were supposedly aware of this curse and had over prepared the president during a week of intense preparation at Camp David. What was presented Thursday, though, not only failed to quiet concerns about Biden’s capacity to fight on – it left voters with an unclear idea of what he’s fighting for. Biden’s one-liner offense Throughout the debate, Biden’s offensive strategy was to again and again deploy one-liners to ding Trump. Some of the lines were standard Biden fare. “Every single thing he’s said is a lie. Every single one,” he shot at the former president at one point. In another, he said, “I’ve never heard so much malarky in my life.” And in a potentially bright spot for Biden, the president highlighted a 2020 report by The Atlantic that Trump had referred to American war dead as “suckers” and “losers.” He invoked his son Beau, who died of brain cancer after a year in Iraq in which he was exposed to toxic fumes. “My son was not a sucker. You’re a sucker. You’re the loser,” Biden said. And during a riff about Trump being convicted for trying to cover up having an affair with Daniels, Biden said, “You have the morals of an alleycat.” The stark difference in addressing January 6 Put simply: Biden was eager to address the events of January 6, 2021, head on as Trump moved to change the subject, and the difference in the responses between the two candidates were some of the starkest during the entire debate. When the debate veered toward the attack of the US Capitol, Trump didn’t address themit directly. He described how the country, at the time, “had a great border,” that “we were energy independent,” and that the United States had “the lowest taxes ever. We had the lowest regulations ever.” The former president did not address the speech he delivered to supporters ahead of the riot that day, during which he encouraged supporters to “show strength” at the US Capitol. Biden, by contrast, said Trump “encouraged those folks to go to Capitol Hill” and that while the Capitol was under siege, Trump “sat there for three hours watching” while staffers begged him to do something. Trump makes news with abortion pill stance In a debate dominated by discussion on the economy, inflation, immigration and foreign policy, abortion should have been Biden’s strongest topic. The US Supreme Court handed abortion rights supporters two wins this month and Democratic voters are still motivated by anger over the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Instead, it was one of his worst moments of the night. Biden struggled to explain his party’s stance on abortion, rambled, appeared confused at times and, unprompted, gave Trump an opening to bring up crimes migrants have committed against Americans. Earlier this month, the Supreme Court dismissed a case that would have rolled back access to the abortion pill mifepristone. And Trump on Thursday backed the high court’s ruling. “The Supreme Court just approved the abortion pill, and I agree with their decision to have done that and I will not block it,” he said. From there, Trump reiterated his stance that regulating abortion should be left to the states, and repeated his false assertion that “every legal scholar” wanted to end federal abortion protections. He said he supports exceptions for rape, incest and to protect the life of the mother. “It’s been a great thing,” Trump said of abortion returning to the states. “It’s been a terrible thing,” Biden shot back. “The fact is that the vast majority of constitutional scholars supported Roe when it was decided.” But while abortion should have been one of the president’s strongest moments of the night, given the emphasis his campaign has placed on restoring access, Biden’s answer instead took a confusing turn and gave Trump an opening to talk about crimes committed against Americans by migrants. A vibes fight about Israel and Gaza There is no doubt that Trump would handle the war in Gaza much differently than Biden. But how? “Let Israel finish the job,” he told Biden, the suggestion being that the president has done too much to restrain the Israeli government and its military bombardment of Palestinians in Gaza. Trump did not say whether he would back a Palestinian state, but did insist that Hamas’ October 7 attack inside Israel would have “never happened” if he had been in the White House at the time. He also said that Biden has ”become like a Palestinian, but they don’t like him because he’s a bad Palestinian.” That was probably  intended as a jab to suggest Biden is too deferential to the Palestinians but also too ineffectual earn their respect. It landed flat – if it landed at all. Biden didn’t offer much himself. He talked up America’s close alliance with Israel and made special note that the US is “providing Israel with all the weapons they need and when they need them.” If he was fishing for progressive votes, there wasn’t much to bite on. The president also talked up the ceasefire deal he spoke about a few weeks ago that has yet to materialize. (It is, by all recent accounts, a non-starter with leaders on both sides.) The next president – be it Biden or Trump – will have a massive job to do in the region. And that’s especially true in Israel and Gaza, where when the fighting ends the US and other world powers will be called upon to negotiate some kind of peaceful path forward. But as their performances on Thursday night showed, there are no easy answers and the hard truths will be difficult to come by. Biden appeared to struggle with his delivery at multiple points during the debate. He cleared his throat or coughed multiple times, a condition that his doctor has previously stated is caused by acid reflux. His voice sounded hoarse and raspy, even more so than usual. He has been battling a cold in recent days, sources familiar with his debate preparations said. Trump launched his bid to reclaim the White House in November 2022, aiming to become only the second commander in chief to win two nonconsecutive terms. The candidates levied personal attacks against each other as they sparred over the economy, immigration, abortion and more. With less than five months until the election, the stakes were high as the candidates made their pitch to voters. Another debate is scheduled for September 10. Biden looks at his notes during the debate. The candidates are seen on monitors from the side of the stage. Biden's campaign won a coin toss before the debate to choose which side he would stand on. Trump's campaign then chose for the former president to deliver the last closing statement. Trump ducks on deportations The immigration section of the debate was mostly memorable for Biden’s stumble. But Trump did not directly answer a question about whether the severe immigration crackdown he has promised would involve deporting those who have been in the United States for decades, those with jobs and those whose spouses are US citizens. Instead, he pivoted into an attack on Biden, arguing that the president bears the blame for crime committed by undocumented immigrants since he took office. “We’re living right now in a rat’s nest. They’re killing our people,” Trump said. “They’re killing our citizens at a level we’ve never seen before.” Biden, who had sought to emphasize that illegal border crossings have dropped recently, shot back: “Every single thing he said was a lie.” Trump’s take on foreign policy: Blame Joe As the former president tells it, the current one is not doing such a great job. The US military “can’t stand him” for a number of reasons, most infamously his botched withdrawal from Afghanistan. Russian President Vladimir Putin was “encouraged” by him to invade Ukraine. Iran, which “was broke” during his presidency, was freed up by him to wage a proxy war against Israel because of him. Trump painted a bleak picture of the world and global politics during the Biden era. He also, again, refused to make a clear commitment to NATO, instead bragging about his efforts to get members up to date on their dues. Putin’s terms for ending the war, he said, “were not acceptable” – but only after being pressed on the issue. Biden, in response, called it “malarkey.” It was Trump, he insisted, who emboldened Putin in the lead-up to Russia’s invasion. If there was any “encouraging,” he added, it had come during Trump’s four years of footsie with the autocrat. Biden’s reasoning for continued US support for Ukraine broke down along two lines: First, that it is a priority and essential step because Putin, he believes, would not stop at Ukraine’s western border. He also argued, as he’s done in the past, that the existence of NATO inherently empowers the US – that such close allyship with Western Europe offers the US a stronger hand in all its interactions around the world. Trump makes a bid for Black and Latino voters As the debate turned to Black voters, Trump took an opportunity to make a bid for Black and Latino voters and knock Biden on inflation. Biden’s chances of winning in November are dependent on Black support in Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania and reach states like Georgia and North Carolina. But polling has shown that Trump is making modest inroads with some Black voters, specificially men, while others are disengaged from the election. Biden was asked what his message is to Black voters who have seen record low unemployment but still face disparities when it comes to wages, maternal health and incarceration rates. Biden touted his policies, including his efforts to reduce student loan debt, but acknowledged that costs are up. “I don’t blame them for being disappointed, inflation is still hurting them badly,” Biden said. “There’s more to be done, considerably more to be done, but we’ve gone a great deal so far, and I’m not letting up and they know it.” Trump blamed Biden for creating inflation and said his immigration policy has led to jobs losses for Black people. “He caused the inflation, and it’s killing Black families, and it’s killing Hispanic families and just about everybody,” Trump said. “The fact is that his big kill on the Black people is the millions of people that he’s allowed to come in through the border. They’re taking Black jobs now.” The conversation then turned to policing, as Biden said Trump tried to cut funding to police. Trump incorrectly said Biden referred to Black people as “super predators” in the 1990s – that was former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton – and touted his work on criminal justice reform and opportunity zones with South Carolina Republican Sen. Tim Scott. “And the biggest beneficiaries are Blacks, and that’s why we have the best numbers with them in maybe ever,” Trump said. Former President Donald Trump speaks during the debate on Thursday. The common thread: blaming inflation on the pandemic Biden and Trump landed on the same scapegoat when asked to explain their economic records: the pandemic. The back and forth over coronavirus for a moment made it feel like they were picking up where they left off in 2020. Asked at the top of the debate about one of the most persistent headwinds facing his reelection bid – inflation – Biden said he inherited an economy that was “in freefall” caused by Trump’s stewardship of Covid-19. Biden said the pandemic was “so badly handled” by his predecessor. He quoted Trump saying the coronavirus was “not that serious” when it arrived and poked fun at Trump’s suggested remedy of injecting disinfectant into the body. “We put things back together,” Biden said. Trump, for his part, blamed the pandemic for halting an economy he said was “the greatest economy in the history of our country” – a familiar refrain from the former president. “We got hit with Covid and when we did we spent the money necessary so we didn’t get hit with the great depression,” Trump said. Trump – who racked up twice as much federal debt than Biden, according to a new nonpartisan report referenced by Tapper – went on to claim that he was about to start paying down the country’s debt when the coronavirus first appeared. He then shifted the conversation to his successor’s handling of the pandemic, including criticizing the vaccine mandates instituted by the Biden administration. Credit: CNN

I have heard stories of the dead giving lotto numbers to loved ones to stake. Under Nana Addo and Bawumia, the numbers are not enough. Where to stake them is another headache. I hope Chairman Wontumi and his media team will accept and respect the wishes of the dead, irrespective of who paid for the poisoned guinea fowl or who delivered it? If there was a person who fought tooth and nail to be announced as the NPP running mate, it is Napo. Congratulations, "senior," but I wonder what my wish can do for you. The quick move of wedding, a sleek, beautiful lady, and splashing pictures all over social media was the day Napo put in his bid. As if he was asking us if he made a good choice for a second lady. His close pals who didn't get it were wondering if it is the same Napo who had sworn never to be with a woman and call her his wife. Well, the dictates of becoming a running mate have made a moslem taste pork. Now your "eye tear" like Adam after eating the apple. The General Secretary of the NPP, the Chief of Staff, and many leading members of the NPP have said on authority that they don't need any other region to win the 2024 elections. The Ashanti votes are all they need. The rest can go to hell. In fact, I considered it as unfortunate, but at least that decision has favoured Napo. Selection based on genealogy, not track record. Understanding the Ashanti agenda, Napo went further to do a needs assessment of the people of the Ashanti region, and the results shocked me. The needs of Ashantis were not jobs, neither were they roads nor digitalisation, but rather T-shirts!!! Get T-shirts for every Ashanti, and we will win power !!! Heeerrrrr!!! Get NPP T-shirts for Kyeremanteng, Odike, Osei Tutu, Yamoah, Adu-Tutu, Tumfour, Peprah, and Kyei, amongst others and the election is won. It is a very unfortunate mindset. However, you will be bought at the price you sell yourself. Napo has taken this Ashanti agenda to dangerous hights. Recently, I heard some Ashantis attacking Hon. Ablakwa for exposing some thieves in the Ashanti region. Are there no thieves in the Volta region, too, they asked? A scheme by Napo to rally Ashantis together as if they are endangered. Thieves can buy that and gather, but clean and hard-working Ashantis can't patronise these lies. What everyone needs is a better environment to work, not preferential treatment. Since there is no name mentioned formally, and for me not to be misled, let me find out about the Napo we are talking about. Is it the same Napo who threatened to organise a demonstration if the Keta Sea Defence is constructed? I mean Napo, the Minister of Energy. Allow me to drink some water and wait for the confirmation of Napo's candidature.. If it is him, then I shall return!!! As for this storm, don't worry, it will be nothing missing and nothing broken. Let's focus on better days ahead. KUN FA YAKUN Credit: Godwin Ako Gunn, President, Kun Fa Yakun Movement NB: Views expressed are solely those of the author. Thinknewsonline.com cannot be held liable for defamation.

Nick Imudia, the 45-year-old CEO of Konga, tragically took his own life on Tuesday evening, leaving the tech community and his family in shock. Late Nick Imudia, a prominent figure in the tech industry, ended his life by jumping from his property in Lekki, Lagos. Just before the heartbreaking incident, Imudia made two significant phone calls. He spoke to his brother, meticulously detailing how he wished his wealth to be distributed. In a poignant moment, he also called his daughter, expressing his love for her and reassuring her that he would always be there for her in spirit. Late Imudia's journey in the tech world was nothing short of remarkable. Born in 1979, he embarked on an illustrious academic path that laid the foundation for his successful career. He earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Industrial Management from the Mikkeli Institute of Technology in Finland, graduating between 1994 and 1997. His thirst for knowledge led him to Alborg University, where he obtained a Master of Engineering degree in Oil and Gas Technology in 2000. Furthering his education, he achieved a Master’s in Business Administration in International Business Management from the Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences in 2012. Late Imudia's professional journey began as a Design Engineer and Solution Manager at NTC and Nokia. His dedication and expertise saw him rise through the ranks to become the General Manager/Managing Director of Nokia, overseeing operations in Western and Central Africa. His leadership and vision were instrumental in steering Nokia through a competitive market. Following his tenure at Nokia, Imudia took on the role of Regional Director of Alcatel OneTouch in Nigeria and Central Africa. His strategic acumen and ability to drive growth further cemented his reputation as a top-tier executive in the tech industry. Imudia's most recent and notable role was as the CEO of Nigeria’s e-commerce giant, Konga. Under his leadership, Konga experienced significant growth and innovation, positioning itself as a leading player in the Nigerian e-commerce market. His vision and drive were pivotal in navigating the company through a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Nick Imudia's untimely death is a profound loss to the tech community and his loved ones. As a respected leader, visionary, and dedicated family man, his legacy will endure through the numerous lives he impacted and the indelible mark he left on the industry. The tech world mourns the loss of a true pioneer whose contributions will not be forgotten. Story by: Thinknewsonline

A new strain of the mpox virus is spreading quickly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and experts say it is the most dangerous variant they have seen. Mpox, which used to be called monkeypox, is endemic in parts of west and central Africa and cases have been on the rise on the continent for decades. In 2022, a worldwide epidemic of mpox affected Europe, Australia, the US and many other countries. How common is mpox? Mpox disease is caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the same family of viruses as smallpox, although it is much less severe. The virus was originally transmitted from animals to humans, and is more common in countries close to tropical rainforests. In these regions, there are thousands of cases and hundreds of deaths from the disease every year - with children under the age of 15 worst affected. There are two main strains of the virus known to exist. The milder one caused a global outbreak in 2022 which spread to nearly 100 countries that do not usually see the virus. The second, more deadly strain is endemic in central Africa - it is behind the new recently discovered strain in DR Congo. The two types carry different risks of disease and mortality. What are the symptoms? Mpox, or monkeypox, is spread through close contact with infected people. Initial symptoms include fever, headaches, swellings, back pain and aching muscles. Once the fever breaks, a rash can develop, often beginning on the face then spreading to other parts of the body, most commonly the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The rash, which can be extremely itchy or painful, changes and goes through different stages before finally forming a scab, which later falls off. The lesions can cause scarring. The infection usually clears up on its own and lasts between 14 and 21 days. Serious cases can see lesions attack the whole of the body, and especially the mouth, eyes and genitals. How is it spread? Mpox spreads from person to person through close contact with someone who is infected - including through sex, skin-to-skin contact and talking or breathing close to another person. The virus can enter the body through broken skin, the respiratory tract or through the eyes, nose or mouth. It can also be spread through touching objects which have been contaminated by the virus, such as bedding, clothing and towels. Close contact with infected animals, such as monkeys, rats and squirrels, is another route. During the global outbreak in 2022, the virus spread mostly through sexual contact. The current DR Congo outbreak is being driven by sexual contact, but has also been found in other communities. Who is most at risk? There are vaccines which protect against severe mpox Most cases are often found in people who are sexually active and men who have sex with men. People with several partners or new sexual partners can be most at risk. But anyone who has close contact with someone with symptoms can catch the virus, including health workers and family members. Advice is to avoid close contact with anyone with mpox and clean your hands with soap and water if the virus is in your community. Those who have mpox should isolate from others until all their lesions have disappeared. Condoms should be used as a precaution when having sex for 12 weeks after recovery, the World Health Organization (WHO) says. How can it be treated? A therapy designed to treat smallpox can also be useful for treating mpox, but there is limited research on how effective it is. Outbreaks of mpox can be controlled by preventing infections - the best way of doing that is with vaccines. There are three vaccines that exist but only people at risk or who have been in close contact with an infected person are usually able to have it. The WHO does not currently recommend vaccinating entire populations. Further trials of vaccines against new mpox strains are needed to understand how much protection they provide. Credit: BBC

Solomon Amissah, a 37-year-old resident of Bracknell, England, has been sentenced to 11 years and six months in prison following a tragic collision caused by his dangerous driving. The sentencing, delivered at Reading Crown Court on Thursday, also includes an eight-year driving ban. Amissah must pass an extended re-test before he can regain his license. Amissah admitted guilt to multiple charges, including causing death by dangerous driving, driving while intoxicated, and driving without insurance, during his court appearance on Wednesday, April 17. The incident occurred on December 17, 2022, when Amissah, leaving a Christmas gathering under the influence, drove recklessly along Bracknell's Mill Lane. Against the flow of traffic and exceeding speed limits, he navigated the Mill Pond roundabout in the wrong direction, ultimately colliding with another vehicle on a dual carriageway. Tragically, the collision claimed the life of a woman in her 30s, a mother of three, who succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Amissah was promptly arrested and formally charged on February 8, 2024. Detective Constable Joy Jarvis, who led the investigation for Thames Valley Police, condemned Amissah's actions as among the most perilous she has encountered. She emphasized the profound risks associated with driving under the influence and driving without due care, highlighting these behaviors as intolerable threats to public safety. The case has sparked reactions online, with some individuals drawing comparisons to similar incidents involving public figures in Ghana. Kwao Buabeng tweeted, "In Ghana, Funny Face and Lil Win remain free while they should serve at least 6 years for their actions." Nicholas commented, "Meanwhile, Kwado Nkansah Lil Win in Ghana might avoid prison despite his reckless driving causing a child's death." This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of dangerous driving and the legal repercussions that follow. The community of Bracknell and beyond is left to grapple with the aftermath of this preventable incident, underscoring the critical importance of road safety and responsible driving. Story by: Thinknewsonline

Democratic President Joe Biden and his Republican predecessor, Donald Trump, square off on Thursday at a highly anticipated debate, offering voters a rare side-by-side look at the two oldest candidates ever to seek the country's highest office. The 90-minute televised debate, the first between a sitting president and a former one, will air at 9 p.m. ET (0100 GMT on Friday) on CNN and is expected to draw a huge audience. A record 84 million watched Trump's first debate in 2016 against Hillary Clinton. Both men enter the debate in Atlanta with political vulnerabilities that present a mix of risk and opportunity. he debate takes place far earlier than normal - more than four months before the Nov. 5 Election Day - and against a backdrop of national opinion polls showing the two men in a dead heat. The clash also arrives at a moment of profound polarization and deep-seated anxiety among voters about the state of American politics. Two-thirds of voters said in a May Reuters/Ipsos poll that they were concerned violence could follow the election, nearly four years after a mob of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Trump, 78, will take the stage as a felon who still faces a trio of criminal cases, including charges related to his efforts to overturn the 2020 election. The former president, who has suggested he will punish his political enemies if elected, will need to demonstrate to undecided voters that he does not pose a mortal threat to democracy, as Biden asserts. Biden, 81, is under intense pressure to avoid verbal stumbles and deliver a forceful debate performance, after months of Republican assertions his faculties have dulled with age. Both men have little room for error, with the opposing campaign likely to seize on any slip-up as evidence of cognitive decline. Aaron Kall, a University of Michigan professor and an expert on presidential debates, said this "might be the most highly anticipated and important" one ever, given the closeness of the race, the country's deep political polarization and the potential for a lasting gaffe. For Biden in particular, he said, a moment of confusion or forgetfulness would prompt "endless news cycles" about his age and refuel speculation about a possible replacement ahead of the Democratic National Convention in August. While national polls show a tied race, Biden has trailed Trump in polls of most battleground states and recently saw his financial edge erased after Trump was convicted in connection with hush money payments made to a porn star. "Biden needs a change in the status quo, and this debate is his best opportunity yet to do it," said Jacob Rubashkin, an elections analyst at the nonpartisan website Inside Elections. "Right now, voters are looking at this race more like a referendum on Biden than a choice election, and that's dangerous territory for him to be in. But in the debate he can drive home the contrast angle - and Trump will be in the spotlight as well." Neither Biden nor Trump is popular, and many Americans remain deeply ambivalent about their choices. About a fifth of voters say they have not picked a candidate, are leaning toward a third-party candidate or may sit the election out, the latest Reuters/Ipsos poll showed. "They're horrible candidates," said Kathy Elder, a 59-year-old sales manager who voted for Trump in 2016 before switching to Biden in 2020. Elder will be watching Thursday's debate to try to decide which way to go this year, but she said she cringes whenever they speak – for different reasons. When it comes to Biden, she said, "Can he speed this up and actually talk?" As for Trump, she said, "What the hell is going to come out of his mouth?" Biden and Trump have made little effort to disguise their mutual dislike. During their first debate in 2020, Trump aggressively talked over Biden in a performance that turned off many voters. CNN will attempt to avoid cross-talk by muting the candidates' microphones when it is not their turn to speak. The debate will also take place without an audience, and neither candidate is allowed to bring prepared notes or props, though they will have a pen and paper. Biden advisers say he will emphasize Trump's role in threatening abortion access, portray him as a danger to democratic norms and remind voters of Trump's often chaotic 2017-2021 term in office. Biden campaign spokesperson, Michael Tyler, said the debate would show the contrast between Biden's efforts to help Americans and Trump's "unhinged campaign of revenge and retribution." Trump will focus on Biden's stewardship of the southern U.S. border in the face of record numbers of migrants crossing illegally as well as the economy, particularly inflation, while also questioning his world leadership at a time of war in Gaza and Ukraine, Trump advisers said. "Thursday night is going to be a great opportunity for President Trump to highlight his strength with Joe Biden's weakness, highlight his record of success with Joe Biden's record of failures," campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said. The second and final debate in this year's campaign is scheduled for September. Credit: Reuters

In an unprecedented move, Kenyans are fervently demanding the immediate resignation of President William Ruto, citing numerous failures that have exacerbated the country's woes. Despite President Ruto's recent decision to withdraw a controversial finance bill that would have raised taxes to address Kenya's mounting debt, public anger remains at an all-time high. An official statement, which has rapidly gained traction on social media, notably Twitter, encapsulates the public sentiment: "We no longer recognise William Ruto as the President of Kenya. We recall his presidency and urge him to resign with immediate effect and surrender his office to the Kenyan people.” This statement underscores a profound dissatisfaction with Ruto’s administration, which has been criticized for "incompetence, mismanagement, and a persistent failure to address the pressing needs of our nation." The grievances against President Ruto’s leadership are multifaceted, focusing on severe economic instability, rampant corruption, and pervasive governance issues. Under his tenure, Kenyans have experienced escalating economic hardships, with the cost of living soaring and unemployment rates remaining alarmingly high. The demand for Ruto's resignation is not a mere plea but an unequivocal ultimatum. Citizens have issued a 48-hour deadline for him to step down, asserting: "Our country deserves a leader who is dedicated to the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance." This bold and decisive action reflects the deep-seated frustration among the populace, who are rallying for a transformative change in leadership. The statement envisions a Kenya where the rule of law is upheld, public officials are held accountable, and every citizen has the opportunity to prosper. “Achieving this vision requires new leadership, free from the taint of corruption and incompetence that has defined William Ruto's presidency," the statement declares. The call to action extends beyond the demand for resignation. It appeals to all sectors of society to support this movement and to work collectively towards ensuring a peaceful and orderly transition. "Our collective action is crucial for building a better Kenya. We must stand united in our pursuit of justice, democracy, and progress," the citizens urge. As the nation watches closely, the coming days will be pivotal in determining Kenya's future trajectory. The unity and resolve of its citizens will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping a new era of governance and societal reform. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, the Minister of Health, has pledged to address the concerns of staff at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH). This assurance was made during his tour of health facilities in the Ashanti region. During his visit, KATH's Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Otchere Addai Mensah, outlined significant challenges the hospital faces, including severe congestion and a shortage of essential equipment. In response, Dr. Boye acknowledged these issues and committed to collaborating with hospital management to find solutions. "We have a lot of work to do to quickly operationalize some of the facilities to ensure they play a significant role in decongesting this place," he said. "Working together with KATH to address your challenges is in our interest. I assure you that we will work speedily to help with the retooling." Dr. Boye also inspected the ongoing construction of the Komfo Anokye Maternity and Children’s Block, which will have a capacity of 506 beds once completed. The minister's visit underscores the government's commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and service delivery in the region. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A passionate group of Asante Kotoko supporters, known as 'We Talk About Asante Kotoko,' has issued a strong warning to the club's coach, Dr. Prosper Ogum. The group has expressed mounting frustration over the recent termination of contracts involving several key players. In a fiery Facebook post, the group specifically cautioned Dr. Ogum against releasing the team's star player, Justice Blay. The post, which was spotted by Thinknewsonline.com, delivered a clear and direct message: "Ogum, enough is enough! If you're thinking of touching Justice Blay too, then start thinking otherwise. Sack yourself instead." The discontent stems from a series of player departures in recent weeks, with over 11 players parting ways with the club. The latest to leave was top striker, Steven Mukwala, adding to the supporters' growing dissatisfaction. The ongoing exodus of players has sparked outrage among the fan base, who see these moves as detrimental to the club's future. The group's aggressive stance underscores the heightened tension and demand for stability within Asante Kotoko as the supporters rally to protect their beloved team. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith