News coming in indicates that the Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah has been elected as the Vice Chairperson of the Association of Heads of Anti-Corruption Institutions in Commonwealth Africa. The new role was given to her during the three (3) day 13th Commonwealth Regional Conference for Heads of Anti-Corruption Agencies in Africa held at Seychelles. COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah until her new position, served as the Treasurer of the Anti-Corruption Institutions in Africa. The Association of Heads of Anti-Corruption Institutions in Africa is a network of national agencies established in 2011 to promote collaboration and peer learning. The theme for this year’s conference was “Uniting Commonwealth Africa in the Fight Against Corruption” This year’s conference was graced by representatives from Botswana, the Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania and Zambia. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Accra audition for talent show, The Darling Factor has been slated for June 3, organisers says. According to organisers, the Accra audition will be held at the GH Media School, Achimota in Accra. Managing Director of Think Media Expert, Raymond Koomson said "Ghanaians should get ready to shine! Contestants should join us for the auditions of "The Darling Factor" talent show on June 3rd!" He noted that the contestants will be expected to showcase their talents and seize the opportunity to become stars. The Accra audition is expected to start from 9am on June 3. Mr. Koomson further added that contestants should not miss the chance to impress the judges and make their dreams come true. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

There was half-an-hour halt in voting at the Bodomase Methodist Polling Station in the Kumawu Constituency after a clash between supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and National Democratic Congress (NDC). According to our correspondent, Ibrahim Abubakar, the misunderstanding erupted when the NDC supporters demanded the removal of a ballot from the box in the ongoing by-elections in the Constituency. This followed a complaint lodged with them by an elderly woman, who said the official of the Electoral Commission, Ghana (EC) who assisted her to vote rather thumb-printed for the NPP instead of her request, the NDC. Police reinforcement team had to be deployed to bring tempers down, our correspondent said. The EC official is said to have failed to convince the crowd about her action and was whisked away to safety. Voting continued, 3news.com gathers. Meanwhile, the General Secretary of the NDC, Franklin Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, who arrived at the station later on, warned the EC’s Presiding Officer about the incident not repeating. “What we have to do is simply to put our clear instruction that we do not want any such thing from happening anymore [and] we’ve told our agents to definitely be vigilant.” Credit: 3news.com

The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Fifi Kwetey has told the party’s polling agents to be vigilant in the ongoing by-election in Kumawu. This is after the Electoral Officer at the Oyoko Methodist Primary School polling station No F360203 in the Sekyere Kumawu Constituency allegedly forced polling agents to sign the pink sheets before the close of polls. The officer whose name has been given as Norbert confirm to Akoma FM’s Antwi Boasiako off record. But the circumstance behind the action is not yet known. Speaking to TV3’s William Evans Nkum in Kumawu, Mr Fifi Kwetey said “what we have to do is simply to put our clear instruction that we do not want any such thing happening anymore. “We have told our agents to be vigilant and told the presiding officer that if any such thing happens again we have to take a serious issue with the Electoral Commission. “It is a little unfortunate that it happened just before I arrived, I wish I had seen the women so that we can get how to resolve.” Meanwhile, the Director of Electoral Services at the Electoral Commission (EC) Dr. Serebour Quaicoe has said that the pink sheet has been discarded. Dr. Serebour Quaicoe also said this in an interview with TV3’s William Evans Nkum. Credit: 3news.com

Alabaster International Ministries General Overseer, Prophet Kofi Oduro, has cautioned government officials against using parts of the IMF money to fund the lavish lifestyle of their mistresses or girlfriends. Earlier on May 19, Ghana's Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta disclosed that the first $600 million tranche of a $3 billion, three-year extended IMF credit facility had been received. This comes after the International Monetary Fund's executive board approved the $3 billion, three-year rescue loan, paving a potential path out of Ghana's worst economic crisis in a generation. The funds are also expected to be used for budget support and help bring down inflation, according to Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta. However, Prophet Oduro, who seemingly does not trust that the monies will be used for its appropriate course, has warned government officials against extending some of it to their girlfriends. “None of the monies you’ve received should land in the pocket of your mistresses/girlfriends, because she doesn’t work for Ghana. You’ll see a Legon girl with Goil coupons worth GHC40,000" "Their girlfriends are driving range rovers, Land Cruisers, Bentleys and flying up and down in our face,” he stated while addressing his congregants during a sermon. Prophet Oduro further maintained that the IMF has to some extent, lost trust that the government puts the loans they usually receive to good use, hence their decision to split the payment of the funds over a 3-year-period. “Instead of IMF to give us the money at once, now they can’t trust us so they are splitting the money in three years. 6 months, 600 million for three years. Why? Because you are not trusted. Now they want to see whether you are working with the money. They want to check the projects" "Ghana is a disgrace. Many years ago, Akufo-Addo was in Amasaman to cut sod for affordable housing, now it’s been four years and not even one brick has been spotted on the site, so if I tell you to be careful with the loan you currently have, I haven’t said anything wrong,” he added. Credit: 1GhanaTv

In a rousing address to a fervent crowd of supporters during the final campaign rally in Kumawu, President Akufo-Addo declared that the upcoming by-elections in the constituency would serve as a pivotal starting point for the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) victory in the 2024 general elections. The President expressed his confidence in the NPP's chances and emphasized the significance of the by-election in shaping the party's trajectory going into the crucial upcoming national polls. "Kumawu holds the key to our success in the upcoming elections. Let us seize this opportunity, mobilize our supporters, and pave the way for a resounding victory in 2024," President Akufo-Addo passionately proclaimed to the enthusiastic crowd" The by-election is set to fill the vacant seat left by the late Member of Parliament, Philip Atta Basoah, in the Kumawu constituency. President Akufo-Addo highlighted the strategic significance of the Kumawu constituency in the Ashanti Region, emphasizing that it serves as a critical cornerstone for the NPP's triumph in the upcoming general election. He stated that the support and momentum garnered in Kumawu would reverberate nationwide, forging the path to the NPP's victory in 2024. Amidst the rally, President Akufo-Addo also shared positive news regarding the country's economic standing. He confirmed the receipt of the first tranche of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan on the previous Friday. Addressing concerns about seeking assistance from the IMF, the President dispelled notions that it reflected mismanagement of the economy. He reminded the audience that numerous African countries, including 29 in total, had sought IMF support, indicating that it wasn't an isolated occurrence. Appealing to the electorate, President Akufo-Addo urged them to vote for the ruling NPP candidate, Ernest Yaw Anim, to represent the party in Parliament. He emphasized the importance of active participation in the democratic process and expressed confidence in Mr. Anim's ability to secure victory in line with the NPP's vision for progress, development, and peace. Other party figures also addressed the crowd, underscoring the unity within the NPP and the importance of rallying behind their candidate. The General Secretary of the NPP, Justin Frimpong Kodua, acknowledged past internal party issues but assured the audience that all divisions had been resolved. He emphasized Mr. Anim's role as a unifying figure who would bring factions together. Notable speakers at the rally included the Majority Leader of Parliament, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu; the Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare; the Vice-President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia; and the National Chairman of the party, Steven Ayensu Ntim. They all called on the electorate to remain steadfast and not be swayed by promises from independent candidates or the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), urging them to vote overwhelmingly for the NPP's candidate, Mr. Anim. As the Kumawu by-election approaches, the NPP's hopes are high, with President Akufo-Addo leading the charge in positioning the party for a triumphant outcome that would set the stage for the 2024 general elections. The eyes of the nation are now on Kumawu, as its residents hold the power to shape the political landscape and potentially determine the future direction of Ghana. Source: Tellusghana.com

A devastating incident unfolded at St Anne's Hospital in Damango, Savanna Region, as two babies lost their lives due to a power outage caused by an outstanding power debt. The Northern Electricity Company (NEDCo) disconnected the hospital's electric supply, amounting to GH¢4 million in debt. The hospital, operating under the Catholic Health Directorate, faced dire consequences as the power cut prevented them from accessing essential resources. Dr. Gbeadese Ahmed, the head of communications and clinical coordinator of the hospital, explained in an interview with Citi FM monitored by Tellusghana.com that the two babies perished due to the hospital's inability to transfuse blood. The lack of power meant they could not retrieve blood from the Blood Bank or conduct compatible blood tests for the infants. Tragically, this was not the first time the hospital experienced a power disconnection. Earlier, on May 4, NEDCo severed the electric supply, only to reconnect it later following intervention from the Savanna Regional Minister, Saeed Muhazu Jibril. However, the reprieve was short-lived, as NEDCo issued a warning that power would be disconnected again on May 9 if the outstanding debt remained unpaid. Dr. Gbeadese expressed profound concern over the recurring power outages and their devastating consequences. He disclosed that another baby was currently in critical condition, emphasizing the hospital's ongoing struggles to provide adequate care. The power outage not only affected blood transfusions but also led to the suspension of deliveries at the hospital, further compounding the challenges faced by patients and medical staff. The incident has sparked outrage and renewed discussions about the critical importance of consistent and reliable power supply, particularly in healthcare facilities. The tragic loss of young lives serves as a reminder of the urgent need for a resolution to the outstanding power debt issue. Efforts are underway to address the situation and prevent any further loss of life or disruptions in medical services. Authorities and stakeholders are urged to work collaboratively to find a solution, ensuring that hospitals like St Anne's can operate without the fear of power disconnections, providing the vital care and services that the community relies upon. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the profound impact that power outages can have on vulnerable individuals, highlighting the need for sustainable and reliable power infrastructure to safeguard lives and wellbeing. Credit: Tellusghana.com

Veteran Highlife musician Akosua Agyapong has alleged that the late Kwadwo Akwaboah, also known as Akwaboah Snr, was neglected by the Ghana Music Rights Organization (GHAMRO) when he needed help. She therefore vowed to do whatever within her power to prevent the executives from attending the One-Week Observation. Speaking to Tony Best on Kumasi-based Akoma FM on Entertainment 360 Saturday, May 20, Akosua Agyapong alleged that many times GHAMRO’s executives cheat and neglect musicians when they are so much in need and would rather use the chunk of the musicians’ royalties on themselves. “The collectors of the Organization’s royalties received GH¢433,000 as commission as of GHAMRO’s 2021 annual report,” Akosua Agyapong revealed. The musician indicated that the 2021 report also revealed that GHAMRO’s executives received GH¢132,000 as sitting allowance and refreshment for their board meetings. “If it so happens that in the case of Kwadwo Akwaboah who told me before his death that he only received GH¢250 as royalties, what does that amount to, if not cheating?” Akosua Agyapong wondered. She said that she will have no choice but to organize some Nima boys to stop any executive member from showing up at the One Week Funeral observation slated for Tuesday, May 30at his hometown Trede in the Ashanti Region. Credit: 3news.com

Real Madrid and Brazil forward, Vinicius Jr has expressed worry over being racial abused by some Valencia supporters during a game over the weekend. According to Vinicius Jr, it was not the first, second or third time he had been abused. In a post on his Instagram page, he wrote "Racism is normal in La Liga. La Liga think it's normal, the Federation and the opponents encourage it too. I'm so sorry" "The championship that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano and Messi now belongs to the racists" "A beautiful nation, which welcomed me and which I love, but which agreed to export the image of a racist country to the world" He added that in Brazil, Spain is known as a country of racists. "Sorry for the Spaniards who disagree, but today in Brazil, Spain is known as a country of racists" "And unfortunately with everything going on every week, I have no way to defend. I am strong and I will go all the way against the racists. Even if it's far from here 🖤✊🏿” It will be recalled that Vinicius Jr over the weekend was showed a red card in Real Madrid's game against Valencia. While marching off the field, some Valencia supports chanted racial words at him which the player reported to the referee but was ignored. FIFA has however reacted to the situation saying, it is supporting Vinicius Jr adding that racism must be curbed. Valencia Football has also issued a statement saying it is going to ban for life whoever is captured in the video chanting racial comments against Vinicius Jr. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Dutch giants, Ajax Amsterdam will allow want-away Ghana midfielder Mohammed Kudus to leave this summer for £40 million. The Black Stars midfielder has declined a contract extension with his current deal set to expire in June 2025 following interest from clubs in England. Arsenal, Manchester United and Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing the World Cup star this summer. Kudus has been in phenomenal form for Ajax this season, scoring 18 goals and proving seven assists across all competitions. Ajax failed to defend their Eredivisie title and risk missing the UEFA Champions League next season after a tough campaign which saw them fire Erik Ten Hag's replacement Alfred Schreuder. Kudus was close to leaving Ajax last summer after struggles for game time, with the player agreeing personal terms with Everton. However, the deal fell through in the eleventh hour. The Right to Dream Academy graduate is expected to make a decision about his future this summer.

Vodafone Artiste of the Year 2023, Mohammed Ismail Sharrif, professionally known as Black Sherif has sold out the famous Palladium Times Square in New York. The rapper and singer thrilled the patron with back-to-back songs from his albums. The Palladium Times Square (formerly PlayStation Theater, Best Buy Theater and Nokia Theatre Times Square)is an indoor live events venue in New York City, located in One Astor Plaza, at the corner of Broadway and 44th Street. David Rockwell, an architect, created the design, and it debuted in September 2005. The theatre features both a sizable space sitting in the back of the auditorium and a sizable standing-room-only orchestra section. The location was initially constructed as the Loews Astor Plaza Theatre, a Loews Theatres movie theatre that opened in 1974 and shut its doors in August 2004. The Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) leased the area, and at an estimated cost of $21 million, transformed it into a venue for live events. Below are some videos and photos: Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Information reaching Thinknewsonline.com indicates that firs has gutted some shops at Circle, a community in the Korle Klottey Constituency in the Greater Accra Region. The cause of the fire out break is yet to be known. It is emerging that two fire tenders rushed to the scene to quench the fire. The shops raised down by fire are said to be dealers in gold chains. More to follow soon. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith