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More creatives should get into politics – Akofa Edjeani

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Veteran Ghanaian actress, Akofa Edjeani has encouraged creatives and personalities in the showbiz industry to venture into politics to enable lobbying for more government’s support for the creative industry.

Commenting on the phenomenon about creatives switching to politics, the veteran actress said there is absolutely nothing wrong with such a move.

Akofa Edjeani explained that it is high time Ghanaian creatives take up the mantle and move into politics with the mindset to support the creative industry.

Meeting Dr. Likee has brought a very big change in my life – Kyekyeku, Content Creator

She said the industry has lacked support from government for far too long, hence the industry players should take action including switching into politics to be able to lobby for more support for the creative arts sector.

“In fact, we should go into politics. I think we have been sitting on the fence for too long and we are all involve in building our motherland. We should help build the Ghana we want and if you stay on the fence and you don’t go into politics, you think that somebody else [would help].

“The people there are not doing what they should they, they are just drafting policies that is affecting us in a bad way so I don’t see anything wrong with going into politics to make things right,” she said on The Afternoon Show on April 24.

Currently, John Dumelo, Baaba Sadiq, Fred Nuamah, KOD, Bibi Bright and other creatives have made political moves publicly declaring their affiliations to a political party.

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While John Dumelo will contest for the Ayawaso West Wuogon MP seat on the ticket of the NDC, Baba Sadiq, a media entrepreneur will also seek his chance for the MP seat of Okaikoi Central Constituency.

Actor and CEO of Ghana Movie Awards, Fred Nuamah had earlier declared his intention to contest with John Dumelo for the NDC parliamentary primaries of the Ayawaso West Wuogon seat but later withdrew from the contest.

He has however, declared his affiliation with the NDC and will contest for the seat in future.

Phil Foden: De Bryune hails teammate’s versatility in Man City’s big win

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Kevin De Bruyne praised Phil Foden for his adaptability, noting his effectiveness in a central role during Manchester City’s 4-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion.

The Cityzens were ruthless on Thursday night as they handed the Seagulls a huge blow with a dominant performance in the Premier League

De Bruyne opened the scoring, with Foden netting twice before halftime and Julian Alvarez adding the fourth as City closed the gap to within a point of Arsenal, with a game in hand.

Phil Foden, who has scored 24 goals for City this season, has often been deployed centrally by manager Pep Guardiola, particularly in the absence of top scorer Erling Haaland.
De Bruyne highlighted Foden’s versatility, emphasiaing his seamless transition from a winger to a central position.

“Phil is now trusted to play centrally,” said De Bruyne. “Today, we didn’t have any wingers, so we both operated more centrally, occasionally drifting out wide.”

Phil Foden disappointed in 3-3 draw against Madrid

Man City thrash Brighton to go second in table

He continued, “Phil has always excelled as a number 10, but grasping Pep’s system requires a deep understanding. While playing on the wing offers more freedom, Phil’s adaptability and consistency have been crucial in our title pursuits.”

Echoing De Bruyne’s sentiments, Foden expressed his preference for the central role, citing its positive impact on his game.

“I’ve always envisioned myself in a central position,” Foden remarked. “This season, transitioning inward has enhanced my ability to create opportunities and score goals.”

As City prepare to face Nottingham Forest next, Foden’s versatility and proficiency offer Guardiola valuable options in pursuit of further success.

Brazil legend Marta announces retirement

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Brazilian football icon Marta Vieira da Silva has announced her intention to retire from international football by the end of the year.

Marta, the top scorer in World Cup history across both men’s and women’s football, holds the record for the most goals scored for the Brazil national team.

Having already secured qualification for the Paris Olympics, the 38-year-old may make her sixth Olympic appearance this year, adding to her illustrious career that includes two silver medals from Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008.

The Orlando Pride forward talking to CNN Brazil revealed she would enjoy every bit of the Paris Olympics as this would be her last year in the national team.

“If I go to the Olympics, I will enjoy every moment, because, regardless of whether I go to the Olympics or not, this is my last year with the national team,
“There will be no more Marta from 2025 in the national team as an athlete,” she said.

Marta had already put her future in the national team in doubt after suffering elimination in last year’s World Cup where she sadly said there won’t be any more World Cup for her.

Nonetheless she says she feels comfortable passing the baton to the next generation of Brazilian footballers.

“We have a really qualified team with really talented girls who, as the years go by, you will see what I’m talking about,
“Because of this I feel very comfortable saying: ‘Listen, I’m passing on to you, I’m going to pass on the baton and you continue to carry on this leg,” she further stated

Marta is the all-time leading goal-scorer in World Cups, men’s and women’s, scoring 17 times in 23 appearances across six editions of the tournament.

She came closest to World Cup glory in 2007 when Brazil finished runners-up to Germany.

I would be ashamed to show my face if I were Agya Koo or Kalybos –  Mr Beautiful

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Renowned Ghanaian actor and comedian Clement Bonney, popularly known as Mr Beautiful, has criticised the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), stating that their actions have brought embarrassment to their supporters.

Mr Beautiful expressed his dismay, suggesting that if he were in the shoes of fellow actors Kalybos or Agya Koo, who staunchly stood with the NPP, he would feel too ashamed to show his face in public.

He attributed this feeling to what he perceived as the NPP’s failure to fulfil its promises and adequately support those who campaigned for them.

Akufo-Addo is a better president than Kwame Nkuramah - Agya Koo
Agya Koo

“If I was Kalyboss or Agya Koo, I would cover my head with a scarf ‘mayafi’ because I would be too ashamed to show my face in public.It has been 8 years, what do they have to show for it,” he quizzed during an interview with Nana Yaa Brefo and Isaac Ekow JB on Yen Nsempa, Onua FM, April 26, 2024.

Mr Beautiful acknowledged that although his support for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) had affected his career, he would make the same choice again without hesitation or regret as it gave others the courage to do same.

I campaigned for NPP because I was selfish - Kalybos confesses
Kalybos campaigning for NPP

He commended individuals, particularly in the Ashanti Region, who had switched their allegiance from the NPP to the NDC, suggesting that they have made the right decision given the current state of the Ghanaian economy.

“In 2016 because of what I did, now major celebrities in the NPP can come out to declare their political affiliation. Everyone was afraid to show their faces or political colours in public, which is unfortunate because everyone belongs to a party and everyone votes. That is why I disclosed the political party I am affiliated with in 2012.

“People criticised me and threatened not to patronise my movies because of this, now all those people who supported that agenda and mindset in Kumasi have migrated to the light. They now see what I saw in His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, he is good nurtured, he thinks of his people he is indeed a human being.

“The persons who have migrated to the NDC have seen the light, and if there was an award to be given, they should dully be awarded for making the right decision because the Ghanaian economy is not looking great nor promising at all,” he said.

He commended the NDC for the achievements made within their tenure, such as building new infrastructure like airports, harbours, schools, and hospitals, with what he saw as a lack of tangible progress under the NPP’s tenure.

“NDC in 4 years built new airports, harbours, more schools and more hospitals were built, but what do the NPP supporters have to show for their toil, when you all went to support President Akufo-Addo and his driver’s mate, Bawumia for 8 years, what do they have to show for it,” he quizzed.

 

Marta announces retirement from international football

Marta announced she will retire from international football this year, revealing her decision in an interview with CNN in Brazil.

The 38-year-old striker, Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer in international football, expressed her intention to retire from the national team after this year.

“If I go to the Olympics, I will enjoy every moment, because, regardless of whether I go to the Olympics or not, this is my last year with the national team,” Marta stated.

“There will be no more Marta from 2025 in the national team as an athlete.”

She reflected on her illustrious career, highlighting her achievements such as winning Olympic silver at Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008.

Marta stressed her important contributions to World Cup history, holding the record for most goals scored in both men’s and women’s tournaments, scoring 17 times in 23 appearances.

Marta, who has been playing for Orlando Pride since 2017, expressed confidence in Brazil’s next generation of footballers, stating, “We have a really qualified team with really talented girls who, as the years go by, you will see what I’m talking about,” she said.

“Because of this, I feel very comfortable saying: ‘Listen, I’m passing on to you, I’m going to pass on the baton and you continue to carry on this legacy.'”

 

Kotoko face defending champions with 8 key players sidelined

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Asante Kotoko are gearing up for a challenging clash against defending champions Medeama at Akoon Park in Tarkwa in the ongoing Ghana Premier League, but they’ll have to do it without eight of their regular players.

After a contentious victory over Samartex last Sunday, the pressure has eased somewhat in the camp of the Porcupine Warriors, who are now focusing on building momentum as they take on Medeama this Saturday.

Medeama have maintained an unbeaten streak at their favoured Tarkwa grounds in their last 10 Premier League matches, adding to the challenge for Asante Kotoko.

However, Kotoko’s preparations have been hampered by the absence of key players for various reasons.

Midfielder Richmond Lamptey and left-back John Tedeku are sidelined due to injuries, while winger Isaac Oppong’s availability remains doubtful due to illness.

Goalkeeper Ibrahim Danlad, Nurudeen Yussif Mohammed, and Peter Amidu Acquah are undergoing assessments by the medical team after being unable to train with the squad.

Midfielder Michael Kyei Dwamena is still on the path to full recovery and will miss the crucial encounter, along with versatile midfielder Sherif Mohammed, who is recuperating after successful surgery.

Despite these setbacks, Coach Prosper Ogum remains resolute in his determination not to drop any points, especially considering the team’s recent run of poor results, with just two wins in their last eleven games.

Currently, Kotoko trail five points behind the top four and sit three points behind eighth-placed Medeama, who have been formidable at home, winning four of their last five games.

With key players sidelined, Kotoko face a tough test against Medeama, but they’ll be looking to overcome the odds and secure a positive result to keep their hopes alive in the league.

By Rapahel Sarkodie | Akoma FM| Ghana

Akua Music shares video for ‘Miss You Bad’

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Akua Music, the acclaimed singer-songwriter known for her soulful melodies and emotive lyrics, has just released the highly anticipated music video for her latest single, ‘Miss You Bad.’

The video, directed by Joseph Amino, captures the essence of the song’s message and showcases the singer’s raw talent and creativity.

I define my music genre as Afrofusion not Afrobeats – Davido

‘Miss You Bad’ was produced by celebrated producer and sound engineer, Mix Master Garzy and was released in February, 2024.

It is a profound song that explains the emotional rollercoaster a person goes through after a broken relationship. It tells a story of love gone sour and evokes feelings of nostalgia, loss and longing.

The accompanying music video serves as a visual companion to the song, giving viewers a glimpse into the singer’s world and excellently portraying the emotions that inspired the music.

The video features stunning cinematography and powerful imagery that brings the song’s narrative to life.

Since its release, ‘Miss You Bad’ has quickly become a fan favorite and a standout track in Akua’s discography. It has received praise from fans and critics alike for its captivating melody, heartfelt lyrics and soothing vocals delivered by the singer.

The release of the music video marks the next chapter in the singer’s blossoming career and is evident of her growth as an artist.

With its powerful storytelling and emotive performances, the video is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.

Akua Music is a dynamic force in the world of Afrobeats and continues to captivate audiences with her infectious rhythms and soulful melodies.

She is on a mission to leave an indelible mark on the global music scene, one note at a time.

Ejisu by-election: We will defend our ballots fiercely – Aduomi’s camp 

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The campaign team of the Independent Candidate and former NPP MP for the Ejisu constituency, Kwabena Owusu Aduomi, has strongly stated their unrelenting monitoring of the ballots in the April 30 by-election.

The team says they will defend their Candidate’s ballots fiercely and with every fibre of their being.

They have also accused the ruling New Patriotic Party (NDC) of glaring vote buying as the government undertakes massive projects in the constituency, including road construction, among others.

Also, they warned the NPP to desist from their voter suppression tactics ahead of the by-election.

Addressing the media in Ejisu on Friday, April 26, the Campaign Coordinator for Mr. Aduomi, Isaac Boafo, emphasised their readiness to defend the integrity of the ballot.

“We have convened this morning to address the alarming and reckless behaviour exhibited by Chairman Wontumi, the NPP, and certain government officials leading up to the Ejisu by-election.

“It is with grave concern that we bring to light the nefarious schemes concocted by the NPP in their bid to manipulate Tuesday’s by-election.”

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“We issue a stern warning to the NPP that we will fiercely defend our ballots with every fibre of our being. Despite their desperate attempts to subvert the democratic process, Ejisu will stand firm and resolute on Tuesday,” he told reporters.

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In addition, the team claimed that the NPP plans to carry out several illegal actions, including paying electoral officers, planning blackouts during the counting of votes, stuffing ballot boxes, and transferring senior high school students who are not eligible to vote.

Ejisu

They also raised concerns about the NPP’s continuous reference to their candidate, Kwabena Owusu Aduomi, as being sponsored by the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Meanwhile, campaign activities have intensified in the constituency ahead of Tuesday’s by-election as the parties contesting are seeking the support of constituents for votes.

Six candidates representing the NPP, CPP, LPG and three Independent Candidates are contesting the upcoming by-election.

Read the camp’s full statement below:

Ladies and gentlemen of the press,

We have convened this morning to address the alarming and reckless behaviour exhibited by Chairman Wontumi, the NPP, and certain government officials leading up to the Ejisu by-election. It is with grave concern that we bring to light the nefarious schemes concocted by the NPP in their bid to manipulate Tuesday’s by-election.

Among the diabolic plans orchestrated by the NPP are:

1. Ballot box stuffing, a blatant attempt to undermine the integrity of the electoral process.

2. Allegations of bribing Electoral Commission officials to compromise on voting day, a despicable act that strikes at the heart of democracy.

3. Utilization of military personnel to intimidate strongholds of Hon Owusu Aduomi, a clear abuse of power aimed at suppressing the will of the people.

4. Deployment of police officers from different regions to seize control of ballot boxes, a flagrant violation of electoral norms.

5. Threats of power outages during vote counting, a cowardly tactic to sow confusion and undermine transparency.

6. Utilization of macho men to forcibly snatch ballot boxes from New sites and smaller towns, a brazen assault on the sanctity of the electoral process.

7. Transporting over 500 SHS students to vote in an attempt to manipulate the outcome of the election, a shameful exploitation of young voters.

8. Admission by NPP leadership at a critical meeting of their intention to resort to electoral fraud, demonstrating a blatant disregard for democratic principles.

9. Unfounded attempts to tag Hon Owusu Aduomi as an NDC sympathizer to incite discord among constituents, a baseless and malicious tactic.

We issue a stern warning to the NPP that we will fiercely defend our ballots with every fibre of our being. Despite their desperate attempts to subvert the democratic process, Ejisu will stand firm and resolute on Tuesday.

Furthermore, we condemn in the strongest terms the wasteful expenditure of state resources for vote buying. It is reprehensible that such resources are not allocated to address the pressing challenges facing our community.

Ejisu will make a resounding statement on Tuesday, reaffirming our commitment to democracy and justice.

NPP knows that their candidate stands no chance in this by-election and for which reason they have resorted to telling wicked lies and digging dirt on Hon Owusu Aduomi.

The pinnacle of deceitfulness lies in the NPP’s audacious claim that the Bonwire market project, personally financed by Hon Owusu Aduomi, is somehow a Middle Belt Development Project. Let us set the record straight: Middle Belt market projects are not under the purview of Members of Parliament; they are typically awarded to contractors through formal procurement processes.

It is essential to note that when Hon Owusu Aduomi concluded his tenure in parliament, the Bonwire market project was merely at its foundation stage. However, his unwavering dedication to the welfare of his constituents compelled him to allocate substantial financial resources towards its completion.

To insinuate that this project falls under the umbrella of Middle Belt Development Projects is not only misleading but a deliberate attempt to diminish Hon Owusu Aduomi’s significant contributions to the community. It is a disservice to the constituents of Bonwire and Ejisuman and a blatant distortion of the truth.

The facts speak for themselves: Hon Owusu Aduomi’s personal investment and tireless efforts have propelled the Bonwire market project and others within the constituency towards fruition, benefiting the local economy and enhancing the livelihoods of countless individuals.

Let us not be swayed by political rhetoric or manipulated narratives. The truth prevails, and we must acknowledge and honour Hon Owusu Aduomi’s genuine commitment to community development.

Thank you.

Nkrumah’s 52nd memorial: Onua Maakye holds commemorative lecture for Ghana’s first President

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Maakye‘, the morning show on Onua TV has organised a commemorative lecture for Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, on the occasion of his 52nd memorial.

Born September 21, 1909, the founder of Ghana died on April 27, 1972, having served as Prime Minister of the Gold Coast from 1952 to 1957 until gaining independence for Ghana and subsequently becoming the first President of the First Republic.

Nkrumah was overthrown in a coup d’etat in 1966 before his demise in 1972. On the occasion of the 52nd memorial, the Maakye team, dedicated the entire edition of the Friday, April 26, 2024 edition of the morning show to his memory.

The lecture was organised on the 26th of April due to the 27th being a Saturday, when the morning show will not be held.

Keynote Speaker for the day, a legal practitioner and historian, Yaw Anokye Frimpong, speaking on the theme; Unravelling the Mysteries around the Death of Osagyefo, detailed the early life of Nkrumah right from his conception to his early childhood and schooling abroad, before he was returned to the country to help Ghana gain independence.

The programme was held at the Executive Theatre of Media General and opened to the public to make contributions and ask questions about Osagyefo.

In attendees included the chief of Nkroful, Nkrumah’s hometown, Kwesi Kotuah V and Dr. Michael Abu Sakara Foster, a former flag bearer for the Convention People’s Party (CPP) which Kwame Nkrumah founded, as well as students from various schools.

Below are some images from the event:

Kwesi Kotuah V is chief of Nkroful, Nkrumah’s hometown
Yaw Anokye Frimpong is lawyer and historian and Keynote Speaker at the event
Captain Smart moderated the event.
Yaa Titi and Afia Tagor were co-moderators

 

Ghanaians Earning Abroad: GRA clarifies tax residency and opens special window for regularization

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has addressed public concerns regarding the tax status of Ghanaians earning income abroad.

The clarification centres on who qualifies as a “resident individual” for tax purposes according to the Income Tax Act 2015.

Who qualifies as a Resident Taxpayer in Ghana?

According to the Income Tax Act 2015 (Act 896), several factors determine resident taxpayer status:

  • If you’re a Ghanaian citizen with a permanent residence in Ghana and reside here throughout the year, you’re considered a resident taxpayer.
  • Spending at least 183 days within any 12-month period in Ghana qualifies you as a resident taxpayer.
  • Ghanaian government employees or officials stationed overseas are considered resident taxpayers.
  • Citizens temporarily away from Ghana for less than a year while maintaining a permanent home in Ghana are considered resident taxpayers.

Special Opportunity for Ghanaians with Undisclosed Foreign Income

To ease tax declaration and payment, the GRA has opened a special window for resident individuals to rectify their records and report any previously undisclosed foreign income. This is a chance for eligible Ghanaians to regularise their tax affairs.

Encouragement for Ghanaians Abroad

The GRA strongly encourages all Ghanaians earning income abroad to utilise this opportunity and ensure their tax compliance.

It encourages all eligible Ghanaians to take advantage of this opportunity to ensure their tax records are up-to-date.

By Eben Agyekum-Boateng, 3Business