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NEWS

Bawumia warns GRA: Use the Ghana Card to expand your tax base

Bawumia warns GRA
Bawumia warns GRA

Source

Dr. Mahamudu Buwumia, the vice president, has pleaded with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to use the Ghana Card as the foundation for data and information in order to expand the nation’s tax base.

The Life changing Ghana Card

He claimed that the government has been able to raise the percentage of individuals with Tax Identification Numbers (TINs) from the 4% it inherited in 2017 to the current 85% since the TIN and Ghana Card systems were merged.

I’m warning GRA about this. Now that we’ve put this together, I’m stating that the data is available,” the vice president stated.

Dr. Bawumia with the Asante Hene

He bemoaned, “It is a very lazy approach to go and keep looking for taxes from people who are already paying their taxes when you can look at the vast majority who are not paying their taxes,” emphasizing that greater revenue would be generated and the tax net would widen before further tax increases were necessary.

Dr Bawumia made the appeal in a keynote address at the 57th Congregation of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi last Friday.

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah, the Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Professor Rita Akosua Dickson, and the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who also serves as the institution’s Chancellor, honored the occasion.

Other guests in the jam-packed KNUST Great Hall included scholars, legislators, and traditional leaders. At the 57th Congregation of the KNUST in Kumasi, Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II (3rd from left), and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (3rd from right) are shown beside other of the dignitaries who were awarded honorary doctorates.

Early in the next year, the Vice-President also alluded to the introduction of a personal credit score system by the government.
He claimed that “everyone would have a credit score” and that “interest rates were higher” since there was no credit score system and everyone was viewed as dangerous.

Vice President Bawumia bows to greet Otumfo


Nevertheless, Dr. Bawumia pointed out that the government had pledged its unwavering support to improve infrastructure and facilities, including the completion of the KNUST Teaching Hospital, in order to lessen the burden of student formation and training. This was in recognition of the demands made by the Free SHS on upper education institutions.

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Politics

John Mahama is confused, 24 hour policy is not well thought through- Bawumia

Bawumia criticizes Mahama
Bawumia criticizes Mahama
Bawumia hits hard at Mahama

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Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has criticised the 24-hour economy policy proposed by National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Dramani Mahama.

Dr Bawumia, who is also the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer for the 2024 general elections, asserted that Mr Mahama lacks an understanding of the policy he is promising to Ghanaians.

During his tour of the north on Monday, November 20, Dr Bawumia dismissed the idea, stating that a 24-hour economy cannot be legislated by the government.

24 hours economy policy does not make sense- Bawumia

He highlighted that various sectors of the economy, such as healthcare, security services, and digital transactions, already operate 24 hours due to the digitalisation agenda he has championed since 2017.

Dr Bawumia expressed his skepticism about Mahama’s proposal, emphasising that a 24-hour economy is already a reality for many businesses based on market demand and opportunities.

“I hear John Mahama has a new idea and he wants to run a 24-hour economy. I say where did he get this idea from? It is not a bright idea! A 24-hour economy cannot be legislated by the government,” Dr Bawumia said.

“Today, there are many businesses that are already working for 24 hours. Hospitals are open for 24 hours. You can buy electricity for 24 hours. Because of digitalisation, you can transfer money for 24 hours. There are many chop bars and restaurants that are open for 24 hours.”

John Dramani Mahama, the leader of the NDC, had pledged to establish a 24-hour economy as a key pillar of his campaign for the 2024 presidential election.

Mahama-Bawumia contest heats up

Mr Mahama argued that such a policy would contribute to economic growth and job creation, especially for the youth.

In a statement commemorating the 2023 International Youth Day, Mr Mahama outlined his administration’s commitment to nurturing a skilled and entrepreneurial youth.

He stated, “A new NDC administration will work urgently to equip our youth with the entrepreneurial knowledge and skills needed for a sustainable future. We will introduce a 24-hour economy with incentives and tax breaks for manufacturers who will run extra shifts to create more room for employment.”

In response, Dr Bawumia rebuffed the idea, asserting that it is not what Ghanaians need at the moment.

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Politics

The Jackie O Effect: Samira Bawumia’s Rising Influence in Politics

Decent Samira Bawumia
Decent Samira Bawumia

Every student of politics will tell you that Jacqueline Kennedy (Jackie O) was the main winner of the Jack Kennedy presidential campaign. Though her presence was felt after President Kennedy had won the Democratic primaries, she was the star of the whole show.

Jackie Kennedy wasn’t just a fashion icon or a pretty face; she was a brilliant writer, spoke three languages, and had the ability to capture the attention of her audience whenever she took to the podium. These qualities of Jackie O can also be seen in Samira Bawumia. From her (Samira Bawumia’s) iconic speech, which gave birth to the phrase “Incompetent Mahama,” to how she carries herself with grace and poise, Mrs. Samira Bawumia is our Jackie O.

The impact of an element of a campaign can be seen through the number of attack ads that opposition groups throw against such elements. As Madam Samira Bawumia concludes her Ashanti region tour, attack ads being launched at her clearly indicate how successful her tour must have been. From scrutinizing and calculating the cost of her clothing items to make her appear out of touch with the middle class, to accusing her of dishonesty and body modification (cosmetic surgery), they know she is a star, hence the attacks.

But in the face of all the attacks, she carries herself with grace and remains focused on her mission. If the attacks are the price to pay in order to build a lasting legacy (like the one Jackie O and JFK built in US politics), to her, it’s worth it. That’s the kind of mentality a First Lady material needs to make her partner’s presidency a success story.

The Bawumia campaign recognizes the Samira Bawumia effect, and best believe we will see more of her. I, for one, cannot wait to see what she has in store for us after November 4th.

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NEWS

Former President Mahama to Grant Ato Essien Presidential Pardon: Controversy Surrounds High-Profile Decision

John Mahama and Ato Essien
John Mahama and Ato Essien

In a surprising turn of events, former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has announced his intention to grant Ato Essien, the former founder of Capital Bank, a presidential pardon. The decision has sparked controversy and debate across the nation, considering the severity of the charges and the recent conviction of Essien.

Ato Essien jailed for 15 years

Ato Essien, once a prominent figure in Ghana’s financial sector, was sentenced to 15 years in prison on October 12, 2023, for his involvement in a high-profile case of stealing and money laundering. The Accra High Court found him guilty on all counts, highlighting the misappropriation of over GHS600 million from Capital Bank and the use of the embezzled funds for personal gain, including luxurious vacations and funding his personal businesses.

Essien’s conviction was seen as a strong message against financial crimes and a deterrent to others who might consider engaging in similar activities. The judge in the case took into account the seriousness of the offenses and Essien’s lack of remorse in delivering the sentence.

Despite the court’s ruling and the widespread public support for the conviction, former President Mahama’s decision to grant Essien a presidential pardon has raised eyebrows. Pardons are typically granted to individuals who have demonstrated rehabilitation, expressed remorse, or served a significant portion of their sentence. In Essien’s case, where he was convicted on all charges and has not shown remorse, the decision to grant a pardon has triggered skepticism.

John Dramani Mahama

Former President Mahama has not yet elaborated on the reasoning behind his decision. This has led to concerns that political motivations or personal connections may be influencing the choice to pardon Essien, further fueling the debate surrounding the move.

Essien’s lawyers have already announced their intention to appeal the conviction and sentence, adding an additional layer of complexity to the situation. The ongoing legal battle, coupled with the potential presidential pardon, ensures that the Ato Essien case will continue to captivate the nation’s attention and spark discussions on justice, accountability, and the role of political figures in high-profile legal matters.

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Politics

Favoritism Threatens Democracy: The Dangerous Game of NDC’s Former President Mahama

NDC violence
NDC violence

In the midst of democratic elections, the integrity of a political party is crucial for upholding the principles of fairness and equality. Recent events surrounding the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Odododiodio constituency primaries have raised serious concerns about the influence of former President John Dramani Mahama and his alleged favoritism, which is eroding the party’s core values and threatening its very foundation.

National Democratic Congress supporters

Scheduled for October 22, 2023, the NDC’s primaries in Odododiodio are meant to be a platform for the party’s members to choose their preferred candidate for the 2024 parliamentary elections. A fair and transparent process is essential to ensure that the chosen candidate truly represents the will of the people. However, disturbing reports of violence and undue interference have marred the run-up to the primaries.

Violence broke out during the vetting of candidates at the NDC headquarters, and it appears that former President Mahama’s influence is at the heart of the turmoil. Allegations suggest that he is actively working to eliminate real competition and promote a candidate of his choice. This not only undermines the principles of democracy but also threatens the very fabric of the NDC.

Act of vandalism at NDC regional office

One particularly alarming incident is the assault on Citi FM journalist Akosua Otchare, who was merely doing her job by covering the vetting process. Such attacks on the media are not only violations of press freedom but also an affront to the democratic values that the NDC claims to uphold. A healthy democracy depends on a free and independent press to hold those in power accountable and to provide the public with information about the political process.

Former President Mahama, as the presidential candidate for the NDC, wields significant influence within the party. However, his involvement in the internal selection process raises questions about whether the NDC is becoming a one-man show rather than a party of collective decisions. It is crucial to remember that the strength of a political party lies in its ability to accommodate diverse perspectives and voices.

This situation is not just a concern for the NDC’s internal affairs but has broader implications for the entire democratic process in Ghana. A party’s internal dysfunction can weaken its ability to provide a strong opposition and hold the ruling party accountable. A divided and biased party may alienate its supporters, leading to disillusionment among the electorate.

The NDC, as one of Ghana’s major political parties, should be a shining example of democracy in action. The favoritism and violence surrounding the Odododiodio primaries have the potential to erode the trust and support the party enjoys among its members and the general public.

It is crucial that the NDC addresses these allegations of favoritism and violence promptly and transparently. The party must demonstrate its commitment to the principles of democracy, free and fair elections, and the protection of press freedom. Ghana’s democracy thrives when political parties maintain a level playing field, fostering inclusivity and transparency. Failure to do so could have severe consequences for the NDC and the health of the nation’s democracy as a whole.

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NEWS

Ghana Takes Center Stage as Leader in Social Media Misinformation

Misinformation in Ghana
Misinformation in Ghana

Rapid Rise in False Information Propagation Raises Concerns

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Accra, Ghana – In a surprising development, Ghana has emerged as a front-runner in the global landscape of social media misinformation. While the West African nation has long been recognized for its democratic stability and vibrant social media presence, a recent surge in the spread of false information has raised concerns about the potential consequences of this alarming trend.

Most Ghanaian Media has resorted to dispersing Fake News

Over the past few years, Ghana has experienced a significant uptick in the dissemination of misleading and outright false information on various social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, and YouTube. Experts attribute this phenomenon to a complex interplay of factors, including political polarization, limited digital literacy, and the proliferation of social media usage.

Misinformation on the Rise

Misinformation in Ghana has taken various forms, ranging from political rumors and health-related hoaxes to financial scams and fabricated news stories. One of the most prominent cases involved false information about a fictitious coup d’état, which circulated widely on social media and triggered panic among citizens. These instances not only damage the country’s reputation but also pose real threats to public safety and stability.

The rise of misinformation in Ghana

Political Polarization

Political polarization in Ghana has contributed significantly to the spread of misinformation. The country’s political landscape has become increasingly polarized in recent years, with political actors on both sides using social media as a battleground for ideological warfare. False narratives and fabricated claims are weaponized to gain a strategic advantage, often at the expense of truth and accuracy.

Digital Literacy Challenges

Limited digital literacy among a significant portion of the population exacerbates the issue. Many Ghanaians, especially in rural areas, lack the critical skills necessary to discern reliable information from false content. This knowledge gap makes them vulnerable to the manipulation of misinformation, leading to unintended consequences.

Digital challenges

Government Response

The Ghanaian government has recognized the gravity of the situation and has taken some steps to combat misinformation. In 2022, the National Communications Authority (NCA) launched an awareness campaign to promote digital literacy and educate citizens about the dangers of false information. Additionally, the government has pledged to work with social media companies to curb the spread of misinformation on their platforms.

Social Media Platforms’ Responsibility

Major social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter, also bear a responsibility to address the issue. They must improve their content moderation efforts and algorithms to detect and remove false information promptly. Collaboration with local fact-checking organizations can play a crucial role in this endeavor.

The Global Perspective

Ghana’s rise in social media misinformation mirrors a global trend where misinformation and disinformation campaigns have flourished on digital platforms. Governments, civil society organizations, and tech companies around the world are grappling with the challenge of safeguarding the accuracy of information online.

Conclusion

As Ghana grapples with its newfound status as a leader in social media misinformation, the nation faces a critical juncture. The convergence of political polarization, limited digital literacy, and the unchecked spread of false information poses significant risks to the country’s stability and well-being. Addressing this issue will require a concerted effort from government, civil society, and the tech industry to promote digital literacy, improve content moderation, and foster a culture of truth and accuracy in the digital age.

Failure to do so could have far-reaching consequences for Ghana and its people.

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Politics

Feature: Challenges and Progress: The NPP gets things done

OPINION: NPP and NDC
OPINION: NPP and NDC

Feature by: Stephen Marfo Adu

I must admit, there is a lot to be done as a country. We are not accelerating as we would want in areas such as health infrastructure, education, finance, and other sectors of our economy. However, I’m yet to see the NDC present a reasonable policy that will enable us to develop these sectors of our economy within the shortest possible time.

A feature by Stephen Marfo Adu

People went on the streets to protest for various reasons; which, to me, are all valid. Indeed, the government has to step up its game, especially in the case of rebuilding the La General Hospital. But rest assured, the attempts being made by certain partisan actors (within the organizers of the demo) to downplay the government’s effort will not wash. Under this administration, we have seen the most ambitious investment ever made within the health sector: Agenda 111, where the government has tasked itself with building 111 hospitals in record time. Eighty-eight hospitals are expected to be completed and fully operational in 2024.

This is the first time an administration in this country has decided to make education at the secondary level free nationwide under the flagship program Free Senior High School (FSHS). It’s foreknown that a program like this will test the already existing high school infrastructure to its limit, and it’s worth acknowledging the plans the government has put in place to reduce/eliminate this pressure. The plans include building new senior high schools (10 of them being STEM-focused), TVET centers, and expanding classroom blocks and boarding houses in already existing high schools. Some of these high schools and TVET centers have already opened their doors, and the majority are near completion. There is more to be done, and it shall be done.

Since 2017, over 10,875 kilometers of new roads have been constructed, be it highways or inner-city roads, compared to the 503 kilometers of roads constructed between 2009 and 2016. This shows this administration’s commitment to expanding and improving our roads. Road accidents on the Accra-Kumasi road have reduced significantly due to the road expansion by the Nana Akufo-Addo-led administration.

NPP and NDC

There are many policies that have been implemented by this administration to make our lives easier, from the digitization of our healthcare and financial systems to industrialization, but there’s always more room for improvement. However, if there’s anything that history has taught us, it’s that the NPP is a party that gets things done. President Kuffuor’s achievements live on, and so will President Akufo-Addo’s legacy live on once he leaves office.

My advice to Ghanaian youth: you are fighting for valid reasons, and no one can tell you otherwise. Protesting for the cost of dialysis to be subsidized is a good cause, and so is protesting for the Tema motorway to be fixed. However, it’s necessary to call out the selfish NDC actors who want to piggyback off your agitations into government (The Jubilee House); they have nothing to offer you

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Sports

Yaw Dabo discusses her relationship with goaltender by revealing that Ati-Zigi is married to her sister

Yaw-Dabo-and-Lawrence-Ati-Zigi
Yaw-Dabo-and-Lawrence-Ati-Zigi

Source

Yaw Dabo, a renowned Ghanaian actor and soccer executive, has claimed that Lawrence Ati-Zigi, the Black Stars goalkeeper, is his in-law.Yaw Dabo claims that the Swedish goalie is married to his sister and that they get along well.

Yaw Dabo

“My in-law Lawrence Ati-Zigi is. He is aware that he is married to my sister. I’ll tell you who his wife is if he makes jokes, Yaw Dabo threatened Saddick Adams on the YouTube platform.

Dabo, a well-known actor in Ghana, has turned to football with the launch of the Dabo Football Academy.

The Ashanti Region-based Division Two squad has been making strides, and Dabo is certain that they will soon rule football in Ghana.

He thinks that by founding the academy, he will be contributing back to society and assisting in the discovery of talent for the nation.

Lawrence Ati Zigi

“I founded the Dabo Soccer Academy because we must help those in need. That’s my desire because everyone needs support, therefore when you have money, you have to offer it to someone, he told Marca.

“Me, too. I need aid. My brother needs assistance. I therefore wish to support others by giving back to my community. I visit orphanages and rural communities in order to showcase Ghana’s great athletes to the general public.

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Sports

Paul Pogba faces four years ban as he fails drug test – Report confirms

Paul Pogba
Paul Pogba

Juventus midfielder, Paul Pogba, has reportedly tested positive for the usage of a banned substance following a drug test conducted on him after matchday one of the 2023/2024 Serie A.

Juventus Midfielder, Paul Pogba

According to Corriere dello Sport and Sport Mediaset, the player tested positive for testosterone after Juventus’ opening game of the season against Udinese on August 20.

Pogba, who has played a total of 32 minutes in the new season was an unused substitute in the game against Udinese.

The report indicated that the National Anti-Doping Tribunal will investigate the issue. If Pogba is found guilty, he could be handed a minimum ban of two years or a maximum of four years.

Paul Pogba

Paul Pogba has had a difficult start to life in Italy since his return to Turin from Manchester United.

He has battled consistent injuries. The World Cup winner has just eleven games for Juventus since his move in 2022.

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NEWS

Macroeconomic stability key to realising single currency dream – Bawumia to W/A Finance Ministers

H.E Bawumia
H.E Bawumia

18/09/23 Source

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Vice President of the Republic of Ghana has said that ensuring macroeconomic stability by West African states is key to realizing the long-standing dream of achieving a single currency for the Sub-region.

Vice President Bawumia CCMG conference

Speaking at the opening of the 50th Meeting of the Convergence Council of Ministers and Governors of Central Banks of the Member States of the West Africa Monetary Zone (WAMZ) in Accra, on Friday September 15, 2023, Dr. Bawumia also stressed on the significance of a West African monetary integration, especially at a time many economic blocs are being formed around the world, in response to the challenges global economies are currently facing.

“The long-standing dream of the West African Single Currency Project that was mooted a couple of decades ago is as relevant today as when it was first conceived. The recent geoeconomic fragmentation underpins the urgent need for inclusive monetary integration hence the need for stronger policy commitment towards the realisation of this dream,” Dr. Bawumia said.

“We, therefore, must double our efforts in ensuring macroeconomic convergence and stability which are the necessary conditions for the take-off of a monetary union.”



“As we engage in development activities in our various countries, we should not lose sight of the fact that macroeconomic stability is vital for monetary union to thrive. We should, therefore, ensure a balance between economic development and macroeconomic stability.”

Inspite of highlighting challenges hindering the implementation of the West African common currency, including the inability of Member states to meet the set criteria, Vice President Bawumia also acknowledged some significant milestones towards realising the dream.

“Despite the daunting challenges, significant milestones have been achieved in the implementation of the activities of the ECOWAS single currency roadmap over the years.

“I understand that the name of the proposed single currency has been determined and is called eco, a federal model structure has been adopted for the common central bank, the name of the common central bank has been determined as Central Bank of West Africa, a flexible exchange rate regime adopted, and inflation targeting framework chosen.”

Dr. Bawumia



Ghana’s commitment

While identifying macroeconomic stability by member states as an important prerequisite towards realizing the eco dream, Dr. Bawumia spoke of Ghana’s commitment towards and ensuring that.

“We in Ghana, are committed to restoring macroeconomic stability that forms the basis of sustainable economic growth and development,” said the Vice President.

“We are leaving no stone unturned under our Programmed for Economic Growth (PC-PEG) aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability, building resilience through the implementation of wide-ranging and strong structural reforms, and laying the foundation for stronger and more inclusive growth, while also protecting the poor and the vulnerable.”

“Over the medium term, we shall continue to work hard to revive the economy and improve on our performance on the convergence criteria.”

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