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Ghana coach Otto Addo calls up six players to replace injured ones.

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Black Stars Head Coach Otto Addo has called up six players to replace those who will be unable to feature in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Angola and Niger.
The six players include Osman Bukari (Austin FC), Ransford Yeboah Koningsdorffer (Hamburger SV), Forson Amankwah (Norwich City), Terry Yegbe (IF Elfsborg), Ebenezer Annan (OFK Beograd), and Kingsley Schindler (Samsunspor).
The late call-ups are the result of eight players withdrawing from the team due to injuries sustained at their respective clubs.  
The eight players who have pulled out of the squad are Joseph Paintsil, Antoine Semenyo, Ibrahim Osman, Tariq Lamptey, Jonas Adjetey, Jerome Opoku, and Inaki Williams.
Coach Otto Addo’s side, who currently have two points in Group F, virtually need a miracle to qualify for next year’s AFCON.
Angola tops the group with 12 points, followed by Sudan with seven points. Niger are at the bottom of the group with just a point.
The Black Stars would face Angola at the Estádio 11 de Novembro in Luanda on Friday, November 15, 2024, and host Niger at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later.

EC disqualifies GFP’s new flagbearer over illegalities.

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The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has disqualified Philip Appiah Kubi, the Ghana Freedom Party’s (GFP) replacement flagbearer, after uncovering errors and illegalities on his nomination form.

This announcement was made by EC Chair Jean Mensa at a press conference held on Tuesday, November 12.

Despite allowing the party to correct these discrepancies, Jean Mensa stated that certain irregularities could not be overlooked, leading to the EC’s decision to disqualify Kubi from contesting in the upcoming election.

The GFP initially faced a major setback following the death of its founding leader and original flagbearer, Akua Donkor.

Her unexpected death on October 15 left the party scrambling to find a replacement for the December 2024 presidential election. In response, the EC granted the GFP a 10-day window to submit a new flagbearer nomination, which led to Kubi’s appointment.

However, upon review, the EC identified several issues with Kubi’s documentation that went beyond simple clerical errors.

EC Chair Jean Mensa explained that while the party corrected some of the identified errors, other elements were deemed “illegitimate” and could not be accepted under the electoral laws.

Jean Mensa emphasized that the EC’s mandate to uphold the integrity of the electoral process prevents the acceptance of any irregularities, regardless of the party’s attempts to rectify them.

Haiti’s new interim prime minister, Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, takes office.

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Haiti’s new interim Prime Minister, Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, was sworn in on Monday as the capital, Port-au-Prince, faced a new wave of violence. Shortly after his inauguration, gunfire erupted at Toussaint Louverture International Airport, where gangs targeted a commercial Spirit Airlines flight landing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Shots fired at the plane struck a flight attendant, who sustained minor injuries, according to reports from Spirit Airlines and the U.S. Embassy. The flight, originally bound for Port-au-Prince, was diverted and safely landed in the Dominican Republic. In response, some airlines have temporarily suspended operations to Haiti due to ongoing security concerns.

During his inauguration, Fils-Aimé underscored the critical need for security, stating, “The first essential task that will determine the success of the transition is to re-establish the security of people, property and infrastructure, food security, and freedom of movement throughout the country.”

Fils-Aimé, a prominent businessman and former president of Haiti’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, takes office at a challenging time for the Caribbean nation. Recently, the transitional council responsible for guiding Haiti back to democratic rule has faced allegations of corruption against three members, further complicating the government’s efforts to regain stability.

Fils-Aimé’s appointment follows his 2015 campaign for the Senate and his studies at Boston University. He was previously considered a private sector candidate for the interim prime minister role before the position was held by Garry Conille.

An issue anywhere is an issue everywhere – NMC stresses need for Peace in Bawku.

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The National Media Commission (NMC) has urged journalists to play an active role in promoting peace and stability in Bawku, where ongoing conflicts have affected the community’s safety and development.

NMC Chair Yaw Boadu Ayeboafo emphasized that media practitioners should prioritize peace-building in their coverage, as their influence can either heighten tensions or help foster reconciliation.

Addressing journalists at a training workshop in the Ashanti Region, Ayeboafo stressed the responsibility of the media in shaping public perception and encouraging peaceful coexistence.

“Any problem in any part of Ghana is a problem that affects every one of us. We cannot sit in Kumasi or Accra and presume because we don’t know when there may be a need for you to travel.

Because of the Bolgatanga-Walewale road, how would anybody suggest that people can be slaughtered? Are you going to stop going to Bolgatanga because there is a Bawku war? When do you know you will fall victim?”

The workshop, attended by journalists from across the region, aimed to equip them with skills for conflict-sensitive reporting, stressing that their work should contribute to dialogue and understanding rather than deepening divides.

Ayeboafo urged media outlets to collaborate with local leaders, peace advocates, and other stakeholders to ensure balanced coverage that underscores the importance of unity and community well-being in Bawku and beyond.

This latest surge in violence follows the return of Seidu Abagre, a rival chief installed by the Nayiri, who had been in exile after an arrest warrant was issued against him in February 2023 due to his contested installation as chief in Nalerigu.

However, a High Court in Kumasi overturned the warrant on October 17, 2024, clearing the way for Abagre’s return.

His arrival in Bawku on October 26 reignited a long-standing chieftaincy dispute, sparking gunfire exchanges that initially left two people dead and several others injured.

Baba Yara Stadium ready to host football matches – NSA board chairman, Seth Panwum.

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Seth Panwum, Chairman of the National Sports Authority (NSA) Board, has confirmed that the Baba Yara Stadium is now ready to host football matches again.

The stadium had been sidelined after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) revoked its license to hold international fixtures due to the poor condition of its playing surface.

Following a period of maintenance, Panwum told Channel One TV that the pitch has been improved and is now up to the required standard.

He stated that soon, Asante Kotoko and other teams will be able to return to play their home matches at the stadium.

“Baba Yara is equally undergoing, let me say, re-turfing, you know, and it has come of age. The grass is up to standard now,” he said.

“With constant working after the game, we would go to Baba Yara as well to have a review of the work so far, then, yes, you know, so that we can attest whether it is ready, then we can allow Kumasi Asante Kotoko to return to the pitch,” he added.

I’ll be president after 2024 polls – Bawumia asserts.

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The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has expressed optimism about the party’s prospects in the upcoming December 7 election, pointing to the NPP’s achievements in government as strong reasons for voter confidence.

Speaking at a rally in Oforikrom, located in the Ashanti Region, Dr Bawumia emphasised that the NPP’s track record set it apart as the most capable party to steer Ghana’s development.

At the rally, Dr Bawumia highlighted key initiatives introduced by the NPP that he believes have had a transformative effect on the lives of Ghanaians.

Among these, he singled out the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy, which has enabled thousands of students to pursue secondary education without the burden of school fees.

Dr Bawumia argued that this policy reflects the NPP’s commitment to making quality education accessible to all.

He also noted several other social intervention programmes designed to support low-income families and alleviate poverty.

Dr Bawumia suggested that such initiatives demonstrate the NPP’s dedication to uplifting the most vulnerable in society, providing a foundation for a more inclusive and resilient economy.

Further, Dr Bawumia pointed to the success of initiatives such as the Planting for Food and Jobs, the One District, One Factory programme, and various digitalisation reforms.

He argued that these policies have not only created jobs but also spurred economic growth and stabilised the economy, positioning Ghana for a prosperous future.

He cited these achievements as evidence of the NPP’s proactive approach to governance and problem-solving.

Dr Bawumia urged Ghanaians to cast their votes for the NPP, stressing that only his party can ensure the continued progress and development the country needs.

He expressed confidence that the NPP’s approach to leadership and policy-making will keep Ghana on the right path.

Concluding his address, Dr Bawumia promised that, should the NPP secure victory, the party would drive further advancements in infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

He reassured supporters that an NPP-led government would remain committed to enhancing the quality of life for all Ghanaians through forward-thinking policies and initiatives.

“Winning Election 2024 is in our sight. It is up to us to win Election 2024. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is winning. He is winning. Dr. Bawumia is winning. Bawumia is going to be the president of Ghana.”

Provide proof of my support for NPP – Ogyeahoho dares Asiedu Nketiah.

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The President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, has denied allegations that he is engaging in partisan politics, as claimed by Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

During a campaign stop in Odumase within the Asante Akim Central Constituency, Asiedu Nketiah accused Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II of compromising his neutral position by allegedly supporting the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

He argued that rather than maintaining neutrality, Nana Gyebi’s involvement could hinder his mediating role in the ongoing parliamentary impasse, potentially damaging the credibility of the House of Chiefs and impacting Ghana’s democratic process.

In response, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II stated that if Nketiah believes there is evidence of any political alignment on his part, he is welcome to pursue legal action.

“It’s never true. If it is true, he can go to court. He can go and report. The Supreme Court has come up with guidelines for Nananom, so if the president of the National House of Chiefs is seen wearing a particular party’s paraphernalia or campaigning for a particular party, he can take me to the police or to court.

“Ask him where he saw me engaging in all those activities, where he saw me wearing the active paraphernalia. Every average Ghanaian now holds a cell phone, so when you see those things, click, you take the picture and show it to the whole world,” Ogyeahoho Gyebi II.

2025 AFCON Q: Massive blow to Ghana’s Black Stars as eight players withdraw from squad.

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Ghana’s Black Stars will be missing eight players when they face Angola and Niger in the penultimate and final game of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Inaki Williams of Atletico Bilbao would miss the two games due to a hamstring injury. He did not play in his team’s 1-1 draw with Valladolid yesterday.
Antoine Semenyo, although playing for Bournemouth over the weekend, will be unable to travel to Ghana to prepare for the two upcoming games.  
A statement on the Ghana Football Association website said this about Semenyo: “Nursing an injury of the patella tendon due to overload of games. The club medical team thought it wise to use the break to refer him to a tendon specialist to prevent worsening of the injury”.
Alexander Djiku, Ghana’s most consistent defender, will also be unavailable after suffering a hamstring injury in Besiktas’ 4-1 victory over Sivasspor over the weekend.

Other players, such as Ibrahim Osman, Jerome Opoku, Jonas Adjetey, and Tariq Lamptey, would be sidelined due to various ailments.

However, Joseph Painstil withdrew from the squad for personal reasons.
The Black Stars would face Angola at the Estádio 11 de Novembro in Luanda on Friday, November 15, 2024, and host Niger at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later.

I’ll never take Minority Leader’s seat” – Afenyo-Markin.

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Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has firmly stated that the Majority caucus will never occupy minority seats in Parliament, following a crucial Supreme Court ruling that stayed the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin’s declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant.

Speaking on Monday, November 11, Afenyo-Markin made this bold assertion after the Supreme Court announced it would deliver its judgment on the controversial matter of the vacant seats on Tuesday, November 12.

The case has triggered significant political tension, with both the Majority and Minority caucuses deeply divided over the issue.

The dispute centres on Speaker Alban Bagbin’s declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant. Bagbin made this move because the four Members of Parliament (MPs) in question – Kwadjo Asante (Suhum), Cynthia Morrison (Agona West), Andrew Asiamah (Fomena) and Peter Kwakye Ackah (Amenfi Central) – had violated constitutional requirements, thus justifying their removal from office.

However, Afenyo-Markin and other members of the Majority argue that the Speaker overstepped his constitutional authority by making this declaration without judicial review or the initiation of by-elections.

Addressing the press on Monday, Afenyo-Markin urged Speaker Bagbin to uphold parliamentary procedures and called on him to ask the Minority caucus to vacate the seats they have been occupying and return them to the Majority MPs.

According to Afenyo-Markin, the actions taken by the Speaker had created a contentious situation that needs to be addressed in accordance with the Constitution.

“The council of state reached out to me again that they have spoken to Mr Speaker, and he concedes that he has not made a ruling and that the NDC will move to their own seat; he gave them that assurance. The council of state communicated that to us and if in all this Mr Speaker decides to [not comply], what should I do?

“I should go and sit in the minority seat? Spiritually it is not even good. You have three weeks to election. I should go and sit on the minority side. Is that my seat? I will not go and sit there. I will never do it. That is not my rightful place.

“I should go to the minority side, spiritually make myself a minority person and bind my colleagues? We will not do that. No NPP person will do that,” he stated.

The Majority Leader’s comments come in the wake of a situation where several Minority MPs occupied the seats designated for the Majority when Parliament was recalled by the Speaker.

This led to a standoff, with Minority members calling on the Majority caucus to appear in Parliament to make their case against the actions taken by the Minority MPs.

“The Speaker must do what is right and ensure that the Minority takes their rightful seats,” Afenyo-Markin added, emphasizing that the situation must be resolved properly for the integrity of Parliament to be maintained.

As the country awaits the final judgment from the Supreme Court, all eyes remain on the unfolding legal and political developments, with the outcome likely to have significant implications for parliamentary procedures and the balance of power between the Speaker, the Majority, and the Minority.

No one is more committed to an inclusive society than Dr. Bawumia – Second Lady.

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Mrs. Samira Bawumia, Wife of Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, has assured minority and marginalised communities of equality under the leadership of her husband, who is also Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for Election 2024

She said the government of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo remained most committed to the development of an inclusive society and that Dr Bawumia should be trusted with the charge of marginalised groups within the Ghanaian Society.

The Second Lady was addressing the members of Fulani Community at the 12th Annual Conference of the Ghana Chapter of Tabital Pulaaku International, an organisation of a popular nomadic tribe.

The three-day conference was held in the Volta regional capital, Ho, on the theme: “Promoting Peaceful Coexistence and Fulbe Cultural Heritage.”

Mrs. Bawumia said the nomadic community remained an integral part of the Ghanaian society and with significant share of economic and socio-cultural relevance, and thus deserved general acceptance.

She assured the community of continuous support under the leadership of Dr Bawumia, and which would ensure education and social opportunities of equal measure.

The Second Lady, who is a member of the tribe, said, “the Fulani community has a unique place in Ghana, and our contributions to agriculture, trade, and cultural diversity are invaluable.

“It is essential that we recognise and celebrate this heritage as part of our national identity. Under the leadership of H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the New Patriotic Party has continually prioritised inclusivity, ensuring that every Ghanaian, regardless of their background, feels valued and represented. A nation is developed when all its voices are heard, and all its people are given the opportunity to thrive.

She said: “Under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, we have implemented policies that promote the rights and recognition of minority groups, including the Fulani community.

“Our government recognises the unique challenges faced by minority tribes and is committed to addressing these issues through carefully-thought-through policies. We continue to engage with various stakeholders to ensure that the concerns of the Fulanis and other minority groups are integrated into national development plans.

“One of our most ardent advocates for inclusivity is my Dear husband, Vice President and Flagbearer of the NPP, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Dr. Bawumia has been at the forefront of implementing policies that not only focus on economic growth but also prioritise social equity.

“Dr Bawumia strongly believes that knowledge is the only way to empower people. We want our children, including Fulani children, to have access to quality education that will equip them for the future,” she stated.

The Second Lady also assured of Dr Bawumia’s support for women and spoke of programmes and initiatives including capital support for women entrepreneurs.

She said: “As we look ahead, our vision is clear. We aim to foster a Ghana where every ethnic group, including the Fulani community, has a seat at the table—a Ghana where diversity is celebrated and not used as a tool for division.

The NPP government remains our surest partner to building a more inclusive Ghana. Let us embrace our diversity and use it as a strength, as we strive for a future where every Ghanaian feels proud of their identity and is empowered to contribute to our nation’s growth. Together, we can ensure that the voices of the Fulani and all minority tribes are not only heard but celebrated.”

Thousands from the nomadic tribe thronged the Jubilee Park in Ho for the celebration, which lasted three-days and hosted a myriad of cultural performances.

Heads of political parties and major stakeholders honoured the event, and the Second Lady was special guest of honour.

Leaders of the community made appeals to the government for more inclusive policies particularly in the areas of education and skills training.

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