Roland Affail Monney, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has eaten back his words. He has apologized for his earlier comments on the assault of Citi FM journalists Caleb Kudah and Zoe Abu Baidoo Addo by National Security operatives last Tuesday. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/local-news-coda-outdoors-credit-union-to-support-informal-sector-pictures “I, therefore, render my sincerest apology for any misimpression created that I was insensitive to the plight of the two journalists but excited about the excesses of the National Security operatives.” Mr. Monney was reported to have said Caleb Kudah broke the GJA Code of Ethics because his motive was not clear. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/facemask-coda-boss-urges-police-to-enforce-laws But his comments were roundly condemned by many including some executives of the GJA. Affail Monney at a press conference today indicated that he only spoke on scanty information at the time of the incident. "On Wednesday, 12th May 2021, around 5:40 pm I granted an interview at Kumasi Airport to Joy FM. Admittedly, the information I had was sketchy. So I reluctantly went ahead to speak to the issue. I began by instinctively and profoundly expressing my tenderest solicitude to and fullest solidarity with the two journalists. Indeed, I faulted Caleb whom I thought was “openly “ filming a video at the Ministry of National Security before his arrest." READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/local-news-coda-donates-5000-facemasks-150-hand-sanitizers-to-gaam-pictures He indicated that his comment about the alleged assault on Caleb Kudah was overhyped to spark an agenda against him. “Unsurprisingly, my condemnation of the office invasion and physical brutalization was muted while my comments on Caleb’s ethical style were tilted and overly highlighted obviously to achieve certain sensational ends. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/covid-19-coda-donates-ppes-to-ga-traditional-council-ahead-of-homowo-celebrations “As a student of leadership, I have learned that a leader is not afraid to change course when confronted with fresh information which challenges earlier assumptions.” Read the full statement below: STATEMENT BY AFFAIL MONNEY AT A PRESS CONFERENCE ON MOLESTATION OF CITI FM REPORTERS AT GHANA INTERNATIONAL PRESS CENTRE ON 14TH MAY 2021 Good morning colleague journalists, distinguished ladies, and gentlemen. Please accept my deepest gratitude for responding to the invitation to attend this morning’s press conference which will last not more than five minutes. I am holding it in my personal capacity as a Senior Journalist and a resident of No 4 Puma Street, Adentan, Accra. This press conference is principally to set the records straight and share a few comments on the raging storm over the molestation of two Citi FM reporters, Caleb Kuda and Zoe Abu Baidoo Addo. On Wednesday, 12th May 2021, around 5:40 pm I granted an interview at Kumasi Airport to Joy FM. Admittedly, the information I had was sketchy. So I reluctantly went ahead to speak to the issue. I began by instinctively and profoundly expressing my tenderest solicitude to and fullest solidarity with the two journalists. Indeed, I faulted Caleb whom I thought was “openly “ filming a video at the Ministry of National Security before his arrest. I , however, added pointedly that the alleged ethical breach did not, and, does not justify the inordinate use of force and intimidatory tactics against the poor journalists. I roundly condemned the “ massive” invasion of Citi FM premises by security operatives to scale up the degree of intimidation against the entire staff and management. I again said that the response by these security operatives was totally out of proportion to the so-called offense by Caleb. It clearly violated the law of proportionality. Unsurprisingly, my condemnation of the office invasion and physical brutalization was muted while my comment on Caleb’s ethical style was tilted and overly highlighted, obviously to achieve certain sensational ends. As a student of leadership, I have learned that a leader is not afraid to change course when confronted with fresh information which challenges his earlier assumptions. As I indicated, the information I had before the interview was scanty. What is available now is sufficient, as legal luminaries, distinguished ethicists and social critics slice and dice the issue from all angles. It is healthy for a free society such as ours for viewpoint diversity to be manifestly venerated, not maliciously castigated. I also take note of the righteous indignation and emotional overdrive over the issue. I, therefore, render my sincerest apology for any misimpression created that I was insensitive to the plight of the journalists but excited about the excesses by the National Security operatives. Indeed, those excesses pass for wickedness at its most naked nastiness. And I totally denounce them. Under my presidency, attacks or threats against journalists, irrespective of the perpetrators or victims, have received outright condemnation. So there is no way the latest ones against the Citi FM journalists will be swept under the carpet. Not at all. Indeed, the ordeal as narrated by the journalists is heart-rending, soul-wrenching, mind-boggling, and earth-shattering. The intrinsic value and inherent dignity of the two as human beings were blatantly violated. Their freedom as journalists, too, was scandalously abused. The misbehavior of the national security operatives can exert a significant chilling effect on the media landscape as a whole. This must stop. In view of this, I urge the Committee of Enquiry set up by the Ministry of National Security to quickly move into action to impartiality unravel all the circumstances surrounding the issue. The findings and recommendations should also be implemented with urgent promptitude to give meaning to our motto as a land of freedom and justice. The Lord is our refuge and strength. I thank you for your kind attention. Credit: Modern Ghana

Information Minister, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has visited the two journalists who were allegedly assaulted by staff of the National Security. He paid the visit on Friday, May 14, 2021, to commiserate with the victims and assure them of further investigations on the matter. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/local-news-coda-outdoors-credit-union-to-support-informal-sector-pictures He said: "as a colleague and as a Minister for the sector, I came by this morning to pay you a visit and also to express to you the worry with which we receive the account on what transpired at the National Security. We were worried because it does not reflect how the staff of a security agency should treat anybody, be the person a citizen, let alone a journalist. "If that person is under investigation, assisting an investigation or being suspected as haven did something untoward like in this case the suspicion of going contrary to the rules there, it still will not warrant that particular conduct as reported," he added. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/facemask-coda-boss-urges-police-to-enforce-laws Last Tuesday, National Security operatives detained Kudah for allegedly filming on the premises of the National Security Ministry and subsequently picked up Zoe Abu Baidoo to assist in investigations. The two journalists were released after questioning. However, addressing the management of the Accra-based media house, the Minister called for patience on the matter and assured of further investigations. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/local-news-coda-donates-5000-facemasks-150-hand-sanitizers-to-gaam-pictures Beyond that, the Minister urged the management of the media house to take advantage of the newly established office of the Coordinated Mechanism for the Safety of Journalists for independent investigations on the matter and legal redress. The management used the opportunity to thank him for the show of support. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/covid-19-coda-donates-ppes-to-ga-traditional-council-ahead-of-homowo-celebrations Below are some pictures: Story by: News Desk Report

OccupyGhana has expressed fears about the ability of the Ministry of National Security to conduct a proper investigation into the assault on Citi FM/ Citi TV journalist, Caleb Kudah. The group, therefore, believes that the only means to have a holistic probe into the circumstances surrounding the assault is for government to institute an independent commission of inquiry into the unfortunate incident. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/covid-19-coda-donates-ppes-to-ga-traditional-council-ahead-of-homowo-celebrations Caleb Kudah, who is also the host of BackPage, a satirical news show on Citi TV, is the latest victim of brutality by security personnel after he was assaulted by some National Security operatives who detained him for filming some grounded MASLOC vehicles parked at the premises. Another Citi FM journalist, Zoe Abu-Baidoo Addo, was also picked up later at the premises of Citi FM for receiving the videos from Caleb Kudah. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/local-news-coda-donates-5000-facemasks-150-hand-sanitizers-to-gaam-pictures In a statement, however, to condemn operatives for poorly handling the issue, OccupyGhana also asked four critical questions that the National Security Ministry must provide answers to ascertain the justification for the assault of the journalist and raid at the Citi FM/Citi TV premises to arrest another journalist, Zoe Abu-Baidoo. “We have no faith that the National Security Ministry can provide a satisfactory investigation into the damning allegations and therefore would like to advise the Government to set up an independent body of inquiry into the matter,” OccupyGhana said. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/facemask-coda-boss-urges-police-to-enforce-laws Touching on the statement by the Ministry of National Security, OccupyGhana was worried that the Chief Director of the Ministry Lt-Col Ababio Serebour (Rtd) indicated his outfit’s awareness of the allegations but unhelpfully claimed without any timelines that disrespect the intelligence of Ghanaians, the Ministry's willingness to investigate the allegations and revert. “We also notice the nonchalance in verbiage and the non-subtle attempt of the Chief Director of the Ministry to brand the serious allegations and the Guantanamo Bay-style assaults as “interrogation” that clearly did not respect the right of the person to a lawyer”, the statement added. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/local-news-coda-outdoors-credit-union-to-support-informal-sector-pictures Below is the full statement from OccupyGhana OccupyGhana has taken notice of the allegations of assault by National Security operatives on a journalist of Citi FM and Citi TV, Mr. Caleb Kudah. News reports and the victim's testimony allege extra-judicial punishment from National Security operatives including slaps from behind, kicks from booted feet to his groin, molestation, and brutalization of his person while he was handcuffed and could not defend himself. We have also seen footage alleging a raid of Citi FM's and Citi TV's premises by operatives purported to be from the National Security Ministry, to pick up another journalist, Zoe Abu-Baidoo who details how she was ordered to delete photos and videos on her own phone under intimidation by a person identified by both journalists as a Lt-Col Agyeman and an accomplice such as one Chief Inspector Ampadu. We also take notice that the female journalist was not harmed physically, but the gentleman was “worked over” by the operatives for more than five hours. In no case, we further notice, was any lawyer present for either journalist. We have also seen a letter purported to originate from the National Security Ministry and signed by its Chief Director Lt-Col Ababio Serebour (Rtd) indicating the Ministry's awareness of the allegations and rather unhelpfully claiming without any timelines that disrespect the intelligence of Ghanaians, the Ministry's willingness to investigate the allegations and revert. We also notice the nonchalance in verbiage and the non-subtle attempt of the Chief Director of the Ministry to brand the serious allegations and the Guantanamo Bay-style assaults as “interrogation” that clearly did not respect the right of the person to a lawyer. It goes without saying that we in OccupyGhana are troubled by these developments, and it is with an iron will that we maintain civil language towards the National Security Ministry in issuing his press release. These allegations, in their very nature, have no place in a civilized democracy, a 29-year-old democratic experiment, and under a republican constitution that touts the rule of law. The allegations outline a bestial culture of impunity, an animalistic disregard for basic human rights, and a demonic manifestation of tendencies that have no place even in a holocaust camp. We are appalled and disgusted, and when proven true by an independent body, we demand that the perpetrators so named be charged with nothing less than the crime of attempted murder, tried, convicted, jailed, and dismissed from the employment of the government without any benefits. Consequently, we ask the following questions: 1. Was Mr. Caleb Kudah, at any point during his accosting by the National Security operatives, informed of what specific Ghanaian law he had breached by his mobile phone documentation of the issue or object that had piqued his journalistic interest? 2. Was the journalist read his rights at any point during Lt-Col Serebour's (Rtd) description of an interrogation? 3. Under what law did National Security operatives coerce both journalists into deleting materials on their personal mobile telephony devices? 4. The Chief Director of the Ministry of National Security alluded to some “No Photography” rules at restricted security zones. Can he be kind enough to refer us to what law his description of such rules is grounded in? We have no faith that the National Security Ministry can provide a satisfactory investigation into the damning allegations and therefore would like to advise the government to set up an independent body of inquiry into the matter. The allegations of brutalities against journalists are not new, but we are disturbed that the assaults on members of the media keep getting bolder and bolder, and the impunity is assuming hellish proportions. This must stop immediately. If this is what happens to journalists, then we shudder to think of what is happening to other voiceless Ghanaians in the quiet at the hands of security operatives. Even more, concerning for us is the knowledge that Mr. Kudah was documenting vehicles acquired by Government and for which it had been claimed, had been disposed of and not left to rot as at least two investigative journalists had uncovered over the past two or so years. If that was the case, then his cause was just. That his quest to hold government accountable for tax-payer expenses resulted in his alleged brutalization sickens us immeasurably. Once independent investigations confirm this terrible maltreatment of Mr. Kudah, the government must understand the depths of our disgust with its press freedom credentials if any of the perpetrators of these heinous allegations are not made to face the full rigours of the law. We reiterate that we fully support members of the media in the discharge of their lawful duties. We remind the government that it is unpardonable treachery to the citizens when people who are hired with citizens' monies, trained with citizens' monies, paid with citizens' monies, clothed with citizens' monies, fed with citizens' monies, and (painfully) equipped and armed with citizens' monies, would turn round and use those arms to oppress the citizens. And the worst insult to the citizens would be if the perpetrators are successfully sued in court; then citizens' monies would be used to pay the damages awarded. We clearly have learned nothing from the Ayawaso West Woguon incidents, and we strongly demand that government takes immediate and firm steps to end this despicable anti-democratic backslide. Yours, for God and Country. Credit: Citinewsroom

Zylofon music signee, Tisha Bentil, popularly known as Tiisha has revealed why she hates putting on “bra” when performing on stage. According to the songstress in an interview with Abeiku Santana on Okay FM monitored by African Entertainment, she hates wearing bra because she has a firm breast, saying, my breast does not need any ‘bra’ for support. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/eradicating-poverty-coastal-development-authority-unveils-kayayei-empowerment-policy-pictures She made this known after Abeiku Santana asked her to advise ladies to always put on a bra. She said; “…Abeiku I think they do what they like if they feel comfortable with it they should go on doing it but personally I don’t feel comfortable that is why I don’t put on a bra”. She added “as you can see I have a very firm and attractive breast which does not need any support with a bra. Its only women with fallen breast who needs bra”. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/local-news-coda-outdoors-credit-union-to-support-informal-sector-pictures Tiisha recorded her first song titled “Goddess” after she signed on to Zylofon music in 2019. She currently has five hit songs including,” Packaging”, ‘6:30”, “Zylofon Chronicles”, and her latest track ‘Truth Mood”. Credit: African Entertainment

The Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare has charged various Public Relations Officers (PROs) across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of the Government of Ghana to take full advantage of the 2nd CEOs summit and build their resilience to do more at their respective institutions. According to her, the summit will help sharpen the skills of PROs in assisting their Ministers, Chief Directors, and Chief Executives to identify stakeholders in their various sectors and develop a deeper relationship with them. Speaking at the 2nd Annual Public Relations Officers Summit in Accra, she said "Today’s summit will also be an opportunity for you to sharpen your skills on assisting your Ministers, Chief Directors and Chief Executives to identify stakeholders in your various sectors and develop a deeper relationship with them. It will also sharpen your skills in developing PR and communications plans for your Organization’s opportunities in the works of your Organizations and extracting to be amplified to the rest of the country" READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/culture-of-silence-captain-smart-suspended-after-criticizing-bawumia-for-poorly-managing-economy The Chief of Staff also hinted that ever since the Ministry of Information was re-established by President Akufo-Addo, it has become obvious that government outreach to and feedback from its public have seen a significant improvement. "Ladies and gentlemen, last year, the Ministry, under this new focus invited ISD PROs to the maiden summit to re-energize PROs for your work. The report I have is that the works and reports of PROs have improved significantly since then and are aiding the Ministry of Information in developing proactive engagements between Government and its publics" She mentioned that the Ministry and Department have also undertaken several steps to improve the work of the Public Relations Division. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/politics-i-will-turn-nafti-into-a-multimedia-university-mahama "Ladies and gentlemen, this year the Ministry’s decision to expand its PR network through collaboration with PROs in State-Owned enterprises is a very positive move. Public Relations Officers of State-Owned Enterprises have done a yeoman's job in improving communications from their outfits. Though not staff of the Information Services Department, it is important that SOE PROs are in synch with the broader communications strategy and plan of government. To this end, all State-Owned Enterprises Public Relations Officers have been invited here today and are now expected to be on-boarded unto the information sharing platforms of the Ministry of Information to facilitate smooth flow of information within the government for communication purposes" The Chief of Staff explained that although communication of government policies and programs is more difficult in the second term of any government, she believes that tougher times will call for tougher measures. "The new paradigm that the Minister of Information, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah (MP) has introduced to the work of PROs, is one that should be embraced by all of you, be you from the ISD or SOEs. This paradigm essentially calls on you as a collective to contribute to the national conversation that goes on daily on our airwaves and online by ensuring that the activities, the Policies, and the programs of your Organization are distilled and pushed to the Ghanaian public. Not once in a while, But Daily. Not in reaction to negative publicity alone, BUT proactively" READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/watch-sarkodie-sips-malta-with-swag-video Speaking on the 'Bonsu Platform', she said "This however should be done in a coordinated manner. The online platform, BONSU, which enables the government information machinery to plan, react and disseminate information quickly among all the government communication stakeholders is therefore of the highest level of importance if proactive development communications will work effectively. Utilize it. " On the purchase of ISD vans, Madam Osei-Opare assured that government is bent on providing them. "At the last Cabinet Meeting in Peduase before the elections, the President of the Republic committed, upon a proposal from your Minister, to ensure that funding for the new ISD vans is provided in this second term. This will go a long way to deepen the ability of your colleagues in the regions and districts to execute effective Public Education campaigns that will carry our people along with government activities at all times" READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/covid-19-coda-donates-ppes-to-ga-traditional-council-ahead-of-homowo-celebrations "Despite the severe impact of covid-19 on the economy, the Administration has already outlined and commenced work on several initiatives aimed at doing more to improve the quality of lives of Ghanaians. But if we collectively do not do a better job in making the public aware of these developments, many will remain dissatisfied and without hope" On his part, the Minister for Information, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah said "In 2018, when I took office as Minister for the sector, the Information Services Department had 40 public relations officers. A public relation's class was not mandated as a professional class as of the case of accountants, auditors and other classes in our public services" He further explained that the Ministry of Information embarked on a drive to show off the number of PROs and to professionalize the class adding that 30 more PROs have been added to the existing 40 leaving a total of 70. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/local-news-coda-donates-5000-facemasks-150-hand-sanitizers-to-gaam-pictures "We have also registered all PROs with the Institute of Public Relations, paid their subscriptions and fees and we have caused them to be continuously trained so that they can deliver professional services with the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies" He however hinted that the MOI is now turning its attention to ensuring that all regional coordinating councils and Municipal, Metropolitan, and District Assemblies also recruit PROs and have that class professionalized. "The job of the media is not necessarily to promote what the government is doing. It is rather our job as Heads of Communications across the various government agencies to forcefully dominate the communication space with information on what our Ministries, Departments, and Agencies and what our State-Owned Enterprises are doing for and on behalf of the people of Ghana" READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/facemask-coda-boss-urges-police-to-enforce-laws The Minister for Information who doubles as the Member of Parliament for Ofoase Ayirebi hammered that many Heads of Organizations do not open up adding that it makes it difficult for PROs to relay information for the government’s consumption. “Our prayer to you is to use your good office to whip all government actors in line to open up to PROs and let them get the needed information” He reminded the PROs that the value of their work, assessment, career progression depends on the output of their work. The Director at Information Services Department, Charles Wereko in his welcome address said “As frontline officers and indeed gate-keepers of various public institutions, there is a critical need for officers constantly update their skills knowledge on the profession. Indeed there are numerous challenges they encounter as PROs at the fore-front of government communication machinery but they need to master their craft by regularly updating knowledge with new and best practices in the field” READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/local-news-coda-outdoors-credit-union-to-support-informal-sector-pictures He noted that the outbreak of the covid-19 pandemic has impacted every aspect of human endeavors including the publishing practice. Mr. Wereko stressed that although the pandemic has caused mayhem, it has also presented a unique opportunity to really accept the relevance of PR as an essential tool in crisis management. In an exclusive interview with Thinknewsonline.com, the Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Sports, Kenneth Annan appealed to fellow PROs to put in their best in their various Institutions. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/eradicating-poverty-coastal-development-authority-unveils-kayayei-empowerment-policy-pictures He said “This is a very laudable idea and I feel this summit should be organized often so that all PROs and Communications Officers within various sectors of the economy, come together to share their views to see what we can do to ensure that communication becomes effective” “I think we have to take the advice that has been given to us by both the Minister and the Chief of Staff in good faith and ensure that PR is something that is just not an event but something that you have to do on a daily basis so we have to be very proactive in the way communication is supposed to be managed to send out important information to the public going forward” Watch the videos below: Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Deputy Finance Minister-designate, John Kumah has entreated the #FixTheCountry protestors to table down their demands and present them to the government for further engagements to be made. According to Mr. Kumah, the government is ready to address their concerns, however, the protestors have not been specific with their demands. “They’ve put their concerns as a failure on the part of successive governments to improve the lives of the citizenry. This is so far the understanding that we as government get from them [but] we need to know the specifics on what can be done to address the specific failure as they define it,” he said. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/expatriate-companies-will-not-take-over-the-entire-ghanaian-economy-ken-ofori-atta-assures This follows agitations on social media by the #FixTheCountry protestors demanding accountability from the government. Concerns raised by the group made up of scores of Ghanaian youth include unemployment, dilapidated roads, poor economic conditions of citizens, poor educational systems, remuneration for appointed and elected officials in government, increase in fuel prices, intermittent power supply, etc. The government through a press conference addressed by Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta responded to some of the issues raised but the group seems unsatisfied with the response given by the government. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/watch-sarkodie-sips-malta-with-swag-video Speaking on the Super Morning Show, Monday, convener for the group, Oliver Baker-Vormawor, indicated that their call on the government is to ensure that institutions of the state work as required and not for more promises and assurances to be made as the Minister did on Sunday. “Our grievances have been so clear and well-articulated: that it’s about fixing the country, it’s about fixing systems and structure. It’s also about democratizing the conversation, moving it from the virtual into our communities,” he said. However, reacting to the comments from Mr. Baker-Vormawor, the Deputy Finance Minister insisted that the demands of the group were vague. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/politics-i-will-turn-nafti-into-a-multimedia-university-mahama “Improving the lives of the citizenry is broad. We need to know the specifics on what can be done to address the specific failure as we define it,” he said. “When they say that successive governments have done things we don’t like, they need to improve, the government will be looking at what are the specifics that can be done to address those issues. “They want to be part of the process and we appreciate that but I will also encourage them as part of the trust-building that they should also meet government halfway and then tell us in terms of specifics and I’ll be very happy if they can submit a paper detailing the specific demands that they are making and how different government institutions can engage them at the same time. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/culture-of-silence-captain-smart-suspended-after-criticizing-bawumia-for-poorly-managing-economy “If government representatives have met with them and responded somehow, it is not enough to address the concerns, I suggest they put them in a document form and present it to any representative of the government because we are prepared to engage them, we are prepared to listen to them and address these problems together,” he added. Credit: Myjoyonline.com

The Deputy Minister for Finance-Designate, John Kumah has revealed that all workers in Ghana qualify for car loans in their respective workplaces and not only Members of Parliament (MPs). Speaking on an Accra-based television station, he said "Many MPs travel long distances (hundreds of kilometers) to their constituencies every weekend and require a strong vehicle for cross-country journeys. All workers in Ghana qualify for car loans in their workplaces and it's not only an MP in Ghana who is entitled to a car loan" READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/culture-of-silence-captain-smart-suspended-after-criticizing-bawumia-for-poorly-managing-economy He further debunked speculations that v8 vehicles being used by MPs are provided by the government. The Deputy Minister-Designate who doubles as Member of Parliament for Ejisu Constituency in the Ashanti Region clarified that the said vehicles are purchased with loans adding that an amount of GHc5,000 is deducted from their monthly salary for 48 months. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/politics-i-will-turn-nafti-into-a-multimedia-university-mahama He said "MPs v8 are purchased with loans, in fact, an amount of about GHc5,000 is deducted monthly for 48 months from an MPs salary to pay for his V8" John Kumah who was speaking Citi Tv's Point of view said "The truth of the matter is that MPs spend almost all their incomes and earnings on their constituents through funeral donations, school fees, hospital bills, as well as providing social amenities for their communities" READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/watch-sarkodie-sips-malta-with-swag-video Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Defense, Dominic Nitiwul has assured that no innocent lives will be lost in government’s special operation on illegal mining activities. According to him, the personnel deployed to embark on the operation halt exercise are professional and will not go contrary to instructions meted out to them. Addressing Journalists on the report on operation halt phase 2, the Minister said “Let me assure the good people of Ghana that no innocent lives will be lost. I hope that your question is innocent lives, so I will stick to that but I cannot guarantee whether lives will be lost or not and that one lives could be lost even from the Military side or the civilian side, we can never tell” READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/culture-of-silence-captain-smart-suspended-after-criticizing-bawumia-for-poorly-managing-economy He added that lives could be lost if deviant persons attack the military deployed to embark on the mission to clamp down on activities of illegal miners and their mining activities. “The Military will continue to do what it has to do on the water bodies and 100metres off it to ensure that all equipment ceased are destroyed but the Military will not target innocent, will not even target to take lives but I can’t guarantee because accidents happen. Only God can guarantee but we will do everything humanly possible to ensure that what you are afraid of never happens” Dominic Nitiwul also described the phase 2 of the operation halt as successfully adding that all floating chanfines and platforms which were found on the Twefo Praso to Daboase river were destroyed. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/politics-i-will-turn-nafti-into-a-multimedia-university-mahama He explained that all equipment on the 100metres stretch was also destroyed. The Defense Minister hinted that his men will continue to monitor the said areas to ensure that no illegal miner returns to the river to continue their activities. “Secondly, I never at any point said that we allowed 8 Chinese to escape. Not on this platform. I said one Chinese was arrested at that time than in the forest, another Chinese has been arrested and they are being processed. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/watch-sarkodie-sips-malta-with-swag-video On his part, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor said “I think, my own considered conclusion is that there is sufficient legal justification for the methods being employed by the Military. I am not the final abettor when it comes to interpretation of the law. In any way, you should know that when the military intervenes in a matter, then it's an exceptional situation therefore, it's not as though their actions cannot be questioned but quite clearly, the decomposition of these excavators and other equipment, from my reasoned conclusion justifies it under the law” Speaking on the restoration of the river bodies, he described it as a major matter adding that it has caught his ministry’s attention. “The expert’s scientific conclusion is that even when you clear the river bodies, you still may never be able to restore. Mercury is very poisonous and dangerous. The Paa Grant University of Mines and Technology is partnering with the Ministry on how to clear the water bodies of chemicals so the residents can use it.“ READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/expatriate-companies-will-not-take-over-the-entire-ghanaian-economy-ken-ofori-atta-assures He commended the military for its involvement in the fight against galamsey. Below are some videos and pictures: Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Fast-rising Zylofon Music signee Tisha Bentil, known in showbiz as Tiisha, bemoans her fate that people cannot compliment her without likening her to the late Ebony Reigns. The sassy Afro-Pop artiste lounged with the chucklesome Giovani Caleb on Showbiz 360, Friday, May 7. The “Goddess” singer was reacting to the comments that she sounds like the late Ebony Reigns, with the same vocal dexterity and lyrical provocativeness of the late star that wooed the hearts of Ghanaians. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/culture-of-silence-captain-smart-suspended-after-criticizing-bawumia-for-poorly-managing-economy Tiisha said even though some would assume that being compared to a great musician is a good thing, it doesn’t feel good at all. She said, “I am working hard as an individual artist. And I want to put out an image. But when someone’s image covers my image, it doesn’t feel good.“ She disclosed that her vocal resemblance with Ebony allowed her to meet Bullet, manager of the late artist. But she says she is in good hands with the Zylofon Music label. “This is the best record label(Zylofon Music) in Ghana. What are you talking about? I did a bit of Radio at their FM, and I met my current manager Skinny Willis. He introduced me to the record label”, she pointed out. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/politics-i-will-turn-nafti-into-a-multimedia-university-mahama Tiisha also said she has big plans to storm the music industry. She also hopes with hard work, perseverance, and consistency to elevate her above competition. The “Packaging” hitmaker wants to have a collaboration with Rihanna, whom she adores. She has a new single out called “True Mood”, with a colourful and sassy video to compliment it. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/watch-sarkodie-sips-malta-with-swag-video She entreated all and sundry to follow her on all social media platforms at TiishaO. Below is a picture: Credit: 3news.com

Award-winning broadcast journalist Mary Akosua Addai Mununkum has joined Kumasi-based Akoma FM, a subsidiary of Media General, Ghana’s leading Media Company. Akosua has over 17 years of experience working in the media industry and has occupied several capacities. At Akoma FM, Akosua will be hosting the station’s afternoon show dubbed Akoma Mu Nsem, one of the flagship programs to dissect the most relevant and topical social issues that confront society. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/watch-sarkodie-sips-malta-with-swag-video Making the announcement, Akosua expressed her excitement to be joining the media conglomerate and also her appreciation to the management of the Media General for believing in her. “It’s a great feeling to be joining the Media General Group at this time and I am going to ensure I add my weight and give my best to help move Akoma FM to the next level,” she added. Prior to joining Akoma FM, Akosua served as Senior Broadcast Journalist with Multimedia Group Limited, Nhyira FM, as co-host and Head of Production from 2013. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/politics-i-will-turn-nafti-into-a-multimedia-university-mahama According to the Chief Operating Officer of the Media General Group, Winfred Kingsley Afful, Akosua Addai’s inclusion in the team is very critical at this moment “as we management seeks to strengthen all our programs belts”. “’Akoma Mu Nsem’ is a show positioned to protect the interest of Ghanaians as well as addressing personal and societal issues with the aim of resolving them and getting solutions to ensure the main aim of radio lingers on-thus radio gets results. “The weekday show from 12:40 pm to 3:00 pm will afford listeners with pressing issues the platform to vent their frustrations, gain advice and directions as we solicit for long-lasting solutions to their problems,” he added. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/culture-of-silence-captain-smart-suspended-after-criticizing-bawumia-for-poorly-managing-economy Source: 3news.com|Ghana

Sammy brought his A-game on the Date Rush show this Sunday, unfortunately, Candybel did not fall for his soulful voice and chose Phillip instead. Sammy, the KNUST student who went viral last year after crying bitterly when his heart got broken, is on date rush for the second time. And once again, he went home without a date. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/don-t-be-pressured-to-have-multiple-children-without-a-plan-rama-brew-advises-mothers During his first appearance on the show, Sammy lost Bibi when she turned her rush off and despite, the begging, refused to put it back on for him. Another drama also ensured when he rejected Ruth because she looked older than him. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/culture-of-silence-captain-smart-suspended-after-criticizing-bawumia-for-poorly-managing-economy This time Sammy hoped that his vocal prowess could win Candybel’s love, but it was all for nought. It may seem that Sammy and rejection are synonymous when he was passed over on the date rush show again. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/politics-i-will-turn-nafti-into-a-multimedia-university-mahama Don’t miss Sammy’s next tryst on the most popular show on Sunday night in Ghana, the Date Rush show, on Sunday at 8 pm. Watch the video below: Credit: 3news.com

Ghana’s hitmaker Eugene Kwame Marfo, popularly known as Kuami Eugene, assures Ghanaians that he will bring a Grammy award home with adequate support. The Highlife and Afrobeat singer stated in his recent interview with Giovanni on Showbiz 360 that he has great plans for his musical career. He said, ‘ I have come a long way in the industry, and the support so far is good. There are more hit songs to be released this year ’. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/culture-of-silence-captain-smart-suspended-after-criticizing-bawumia-for-poorly-managing-economy The Lynx Entertainment signee has been on tour promoting his newest single, ‘Dollar on you’. The song barely launched six days ago has seen a lot of support from industry players jamming to the new tune as well as great views since the premiere of the song. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/politics-i-will-turn-nafti-into-a-multimedia-university-mahama He stated, ‘ My song has been doing very well since its release and key influencers like Sarkodie, Okyeame has jumped on the song plus it’s has gotten a lot of views since ’. The future looks bright for Kuami Eugene and his label mate Kidi as both artiste have been soaring high in the music industry. However, their latest feud with each other has raised concerns about their friendship, and many think it might jeopardize their music career. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/watch-sarkodie-sips-malta-with-swag-video The ‘Open gate ’ hitmaker has disclosed to his fans that there is no actual battle with both and describes it as a ‘brotherly-banter. Kuami Eugene has entreated all Ghanaians to stream and support his music on all music platforms and urges his music lovers to expect more hit songs. READ ALSO: https://www.thinknewsonline.com/post/don-t-be-pressured-to-have-multiple-children-without-a-plan-rama-brew-advises-mothers Watch the video below: Credit: 3news.com