Ghana Budget 2025, Dr. Ato Forson's Full Text, President John Mahama's 22 Key Commitments

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1xMBN7NcA1Q764eKs1N86ncGNWTIJuj2eFCUIUKYBLR17Kbs-F4w07UdGYjwda99tmDxHvaiwVsFi0729v73dWyFB3ByDD6uy7SfNy9o6Y6rmrHjRd3awzDt9815Nh0vTAi2qqHbmpAyYba7hxOTpfzDrJBrNYaMFJSdKPot_m1u4n8v8RD7LK5yfigbS/s1400/Ato-Mahama1.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1xMBN7NcA1Q764eKs1N86ncGNWTIJuj2eFCUIUKYBLR17Kbs-F4w07UdGYjwda99tmDxHvaiwVsFi0729v73dWyFB3ByDD6uy7SfNy9o6Y6rmrHjRd3awzDt9815Nh0vTAi2qqHbmpAyYba7hxOTpfzDrJBrNYaMFJSdKPot_m1u4n8v8RD7LK5yfigbS/s600/Ato-Mahama1.jpg" width="600" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finance Minister Dr Ato Forson, President John Mahama</td></tr></tbody></table> <strong><br /></strong><div><strong>Ghana Budget 2025, Dr. Ato Forson's Full Text & Speech (Audio), President John Mahama's 22 Key Commitments</strong><strong>: A Bold Step Towards Transformation</strong> <div><br /></div><div>  <strong>Speech by the Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson</strong> </div><div><br /></div><div>  <strong>Mr. Speaker, Fellow Ghanaians, Distinguished Members of Parliament,</strong> </div><div><br /></div><div> It is with great honor and responsibility that I stand before you today to present the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy of Ghana. This budget represents a bold step towards national transformation, economic recovery, and social empowerment. Under the leadership of President John Mahama, we have not only made promises but have delivered on them. Today, I am proud to declare that we have fulfilled <strong>22 key commitments</strong> that are reshaping our nation. <div> <hr /> </div> <h3><strong>A Government That Works for the People</strong></h3> Mr. Speaker, we pledged to run a lean and effective government. <strong>By reducing the number of ministers to just 60, we have cut down bureaucracy and saved millions in administrative costs.</strong> This is a testament to our commitment to responsible governance and accountability. <h3><strong>Tax Relief for Ghanaians: A Breath of Fresh Air</strong></h3> Ghanaians have long struggled under the burden of excessive taxation. We listened, and we acted. <strong>The removal of the E-Levy and Betting Tax</strong> marks a new chapter where citizens can engage in digital transactions and businesses can thrive without unnecessary tax constraints. Additionally, <strong>we have abolished the COVID-19 Levy,</strong> ensuring that Ghanaians keep more of their hard-earned money while we focus on economic recovery through sustainable means. <div> <hr /> </div> <h3><strong>Education for All: Breaking Barriers to Learning</strong></h3> Mr. Speaker, we believe that education is the foundation of national development. In this budget, we have introduced transformative policies to ensure no Ghanaian child is left behind: <ul data-spread="false"> <li><strong>Elimination of academic fees for first-year students</strong> across all tertiary institutions.</li> <li><strong>Free tertiary education for persons with disabilities,</strong> ensuring inclusivity in higher education.</li> <li><strong>Continuing and improving Free SHS</strong> to guarantee that every Ghanaian child receives quality secondary education.</li> <li><strong>Provision of free sanitary pads to schoolgirls</strong> to support their education and well-being.</li> <li><strong>Free textbooks for all schoolchildren</strong> to enhance learning outcomes.</li> <li><strong>Uncapping of the GETFund</strong> to ensure sustainable financing for education.</li> </ul> These policies underscore our unwavering dedication to building an educated and empowered workforce for the future. <div> <hr /> </div> <h3><strong>Quality Healthcare: A Commitment to Every Ghanaian</strong></h3> Health is wealth, and this government is taking steps to ensure that every Ghanaian has access to quality healthcare. <strong>The 'Mahama Cares' Programme will finance the treatment of non-communicable diseases,</strong> providing relief for thousands of families. Additionally, <strong>we are uncapping the NHIL (National Health Insurance Levy)</strong> to guarantee sustainable funding for healthcare services across the country. <div> <hr /> </div> <h3><strong>Job Creation & Economic Recovery: The $10 Billion 'Big Push' Programme</strong></h3> Mr. Speaker, to address unemployment and boost industrialization, we are implementing the <strong>$10 billion 'Big Push' Programme.</strong> This initiative will: <ul data-spread="false"> <li>Inject massive investments into infrastructure projects.</li> <li>Create thousands of direct and indirect jobs.</li> <li>Boost local businesses and entrepreneurs.</li> </ul> This programme is a game-changer, putting Ghana on the path to economic prosperity while ensuring sustainable development. <div> <hr /> </div> <h3><strong>Strengthening Governance & Accountability</strong></h3> Good governance is the bedrock of national progress. <strong>We are initiating the Constitution Review Process</strong> to ensure our legal framework meets the needs of the modern Ghanaian society. Additionally, our commitment to accountability remains strong, with a national effort to <strong>recover all looted state funds</strong> and reinvest them into national development. <div> <hr /> </div> <h3><strong>Empowering Teachers, Nurses & Local Leaders</strong></h3> Our frontline workers are the backbone of this nation. To appreciate their sacrifices, we have introduced: <ul data-spread="false"> <li><strong>'Alawa' allowances for teachers and nurses</strong> to motivate and retain talent in critical sectors.</li> <li><strong>Monthly allowances for Assembly Members</strong> to strengthen grassroots governance and development.</li> </ul> <div> <hr /> </div> <h3><strong>Resetting Ghana: A New Beginning</strong></h3> Mr. Speaker, we are not just managing Ghana; we are resetting Ghana. This budget is a bold, people-centered economic recovery plan that prioritizes relief, growth, and opportunity for all. The steps we are taking today will define the future of our great nation, ensuring that every Ghanaian benefits from the progress we make. <strong>We are not just making promises—we are delivering.</strong> </div><div><br /></div><div>Together, let us build the Ghana we all want. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>  <strong>Thank you.</strong>    </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Source: <a href="http://GhanaSky.com">GhanaSky.com</a></b></div></div>

Dr Ato Forson Featured Ghana Budget Local News News Politics President John Mahama Ghana Budget 2025, Dr. Ato Forson's Full Text, President John Mahama's 22 Key Commitments

Finance Minister Dr Ato Forson, President John Mahama Ghana Budget 2025, Dr. Ato Forson's Full Text & Speech (Audio), President Joh...

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Digital Royalties Clash: QueenLet Pressures Esther Smith to Settle or Face Public Exposure (Video)

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJFHJ6wFmc0-gf6Xai4CK2Y5m0HlWxtE4LFlB7JbG3SIaR-sAowGpW8Lr08GiGXfMIQUKlxCa5t2O40F94jN_AH466N28S4jgJjrrl1t55MyASkyuGNxpvY-h8TLj57oYxJ6nLxnmH5SkpuGGVHxFW7ccHXAlN-w7GRidgaFQLWuO9gycBqWxa9_eYtyf/s910/esthersmith-queenlet.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="910" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJFHJ6wFmc0-gf6Xai4CK2Y5m0HlWxtE4LFlB7JbG3SIaR-sAowGpW8Lr08GiGXfMIQUKlxCa5t2O40F94jN_AH466N28S4jgJjrrl1t55MyASkyuGNxpvY-h8TLj57oYxJ6nLxnmH5SkpuGGVHxFW7ccHXAlN-w7GRidgaFQLWuO9gycBqWxa9_eYtyf/s600/esthersmith-queenlet.jpg" width="600" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Esther Smith and QueenLet</td></tr></tbody></table> <h2><strong>ACCRA24</strong>: Rising Soakat artist and Sing-a-thon artist QueenLet has issued a stern ultimatum to veteran singer Esther Smith.</h2> <h3>QueenLet demands that Esther Smith produce evidence supporting her recent press release within one week; failure to do so will result in QueenLet releasing all her audio evidence related to the matter.</h3> The controversy centers around allegations that Esther Smith owes OFM Computer World over $240,000 USD, representing a 40% share of revenues from digital stores, as stipulated in their contract. The percentage from YouTube earnings is yet to be calculated. <div><br /></div><div>These claims have ignited a fierce dispute between the two artists, with QueenLet taking to social media to voice her grievances. </div><div><br /></div><div> In a recent interview on Neat 100.9 FM hosted by Ola Michael, QueenLet expressed her frustration, stating that Esther Smith not only failed to compensate her husband for services rendered but also insulted him. </div><div><br /></div><div>This personal affront has added fuel to the fire, intensifying the public feud between the two musicians.</div><div><br /></div><div> In response to the allegations, the Esther Smith Ministry released an official statement addressing the claims made by OFM Computer World. </div><div><br /></div><div>The statement, shared on social media platforms, aims to clarify Smith's position and the accusations. <h4>This dispute marks a significant departure from the previously amicable relationship between the two artists. Notably, Esther Smith had endorsed QueenLet's music in the past, praising her single <strong>"Dear Holy Spirit"</strong> as a powerful and uplifting gospel track.</h4> As the deadline approaches, the gospel music community and fans alike are keenly observing how this conflict will unfold. </div><div><br /></div><div>The potential release of QueenLet's audio evidence could have far-reaching implications for Esther Smith's career and the broader industry. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> For a more in-depth understanding of the situation, you can watch the following video: <blockquote cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@queenletmusic/video/7472847760199257366" class="tiktok-embed" data-video-id="7472847760199257366" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;"><section><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@queenletmusic?refer=embed" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="@queenletmusic">@queenletmusic</a> Esther Smith Wobua, woy3 Otrufuo<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/foryou?refer=embed" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="foryou">#foryou</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-7472847983696988950?refer=embed" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="♬ original sound - QueenLet">♬ original sound - QueenLet</a></section></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></div>

Debrich Group Dr Debrich Jeremiah Entertainment Esther Smith Featured OFM Computer World Religion Religious News Digital Royalties Clash: QueenLet Pressures Esther Smith to Settle or Face Public Exposure (Video)

Esther Smith and QueenLet ACCRA24 : Rising Soakat artist and Sing-a-thon artist QueenLet has issued a stern ultimatum to veteran singer Est...

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OFM Computer World Demands $240K from Esther Smith Over Digital Revenue - Dr. Debrich Jeremiah

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij1PavQWPZ-2VDR2lvQLSO09pOUMGXOVXSDdkwrVJaDh4ltHPJcyrySTSewchyIkpMr3mz8O02gweQV8nMwmxrLev5Yo5LoyaNLx56LulZJOvu7peODlQC4DPtE8J0ZB0Z6NnahZAK-6TLKCH55v62VVvU3vfidw_4WovEPwLJjwQEqy95M1clA3O_rt0j/s1280/esther-smith_debrich-jeremiah.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij1PavQWPZ-2VDR2lvQLSO09pOUMGXOVXSDdkwrVJaDh4ltHPJcyrySTSewchyIkpMr3mz8O02gweQV8nMwmxrLev5Yo5LoyaNLx56LulZJOvu7peODlQC4DPtE8J0ZB0Z6NnahZAK-6TLKCH55v62VVvU3vfidw_4WovEPwLJjwQEqy95M1clA3O_rt0j/w640-h360/esther-smith_debrich-jeremiah.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Esther Smith, Dr Debrich Jeremiah, OFM Computer World</span></td></tr></tbody></table> <h2>The Ghanaian gospel music industry is witnessing a legal dispute, with <strong>OFM Computer World</strong> alleging that <strong>Esther Smith</strong> has yet to pay over $240,000 in digital royalties, while her YouTube revenue share remains uncalculated.</h2> <h3><strong>OFM Computer World Europe</strong>, a subsidiary of <strong>Multi Debrich Group Ltd Ghana</strong>, has initiated legal proceedings against renowned gospel artist Esther Smith.</h3> The company alleges that <a href="https://debrichgroup.com/ofm-computer-world-to-reclaim-esther-smith/" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><strong>Esther Smith</strong></a> owes over $240,000, representing a 40% share of revenues from digital stores, as stipulated in their contractual agreement. Additionally, the percentage from YouTube earnings is yet to be calculated. <h4><strong>Background of the Dispute</strong></h4> On July 12, 2020, OFM Computer World, under the leadership of Dr. Debrich Jeremiah Acheampong, established the YouTube channel EstherSmithMusic to promote Esther Smith's gospel music career.<div><br /></div><div> This initiative was built upon the domain esthersmith.org, which remains under the company's control. A legally binding agreement, signed by Smith on June 16, 2020, recognized OFM Computer World as the rightful creator and manager of the channel, entrusting them with its technical and promotional management. <div><br /></div><div> However, without prior consultation or consent, Smith unilaterally altered the channel's password and recovery email, effectively excluding the original creators and managers. This action has raised significant legal and ethical concerns regarding contractual obligations and digital rights.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtEib_l4oVnbj3IyDTHSxMArBMJYcxbbAi6GKkQNoxt3zhyphenhyphenvXkPQQavyzRVyRFZDGWgwyhyL2P4fUEmWX1RuTPZjk8WLhpb3A3_hA-U_OKrcBIJUS1YkMxfvEFqJHAQKIi_jCsKkF0FnlP3b6Yz2N_bR2L-5JmG5B1AnJJuaY0e55oaWo-2UDguBvZjiYF/s979/dansoman_court.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="979" data-original-width="678" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtEib_l4oVnbj3IyDTHSxMArBMJYcxbbAi6GKkQNoxt3zhyphenhyphenvXkPQQavyzRVyRFZDGWgwyhyL2P4fUEmWX1RuTPZjk8WLhpb3A3_hA-U_OKrcBIJUS1YkMxfvEFqJHAQKIi_jCsKkF0FnlP3b6Yz2N_bR2L-5JmG5B1AnJJuaY0e55oaWo-2UDguBvZjiYF/w443-h640/dansoman_court.jpg" width="443" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Esther Smith Court case (Suit No. CCD/C2/26/24)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br />  <h4><strong>Legal Proceedings and YouTube Intervention</strong></h4> <p data-end="1593" data-start="1432">In response to the unauthorized takeover, OFM Computer World has formally petitioned YouTube Support to review the channel's ownership. The company has provided:</p> <ul data-end="2074" data-start="1595"> <li data-end="1671" data-start="1595"> <p data-end="1671" data-start="1597">The original signed agreement between OFM Computer World and Esther Smith.</p> </li> <li data-end="1738" data-start="1673"> <p data-end="1738" data-start="1675">A copy of Smith's German National ID for identity verification.</p> </li> <li data-end="1861" data-start="1740"> <p data-end="1861" data-start="1742">Official proof of the channel’s creation under the Gmail username esthersmithorg, linked to the domain esthersmith.org.</p> </li> <li data-end="1964" data-start="1863"> <p data-end="1964" data-start="1865">Legal documentation from the Dansoman Court in Accra, confirming the case is under judicial review.</p> </li> <li data-end="2074" data-start="1966"> <p data-end="2074" data-start="1968">Evidence of OFM Computer World’s active management of the channel prior to the unauthorized access change.</p> </li> </ul> The company has also escalated the matter to Google's Legal Support Team, seeking intervention to restore rightful ownership and ensure adherence to digital media agreements. <h4><strong>Implications for Digital Content Ownership in the Music Industry</strong></h4> <p data-end="2736" data-start="2360">This case underscores critical issues surrounding digital content ownership and management rights in the entertainment industry. Many artists rely on digital platforms such as YouTube for revenue generation, promotions, and audience engagement. However, disputes over ownership can arise when clear contractual agreements are not honored.</p> <a href="https://debrichgroup.com/biography-of-dr-debrich-jeremiah-acheampong/" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><strong>Dr. Debrich Jeremiah Acheampong</strong></a>, CEO of OFM Computer World Europe and Multi Debrich Group Ltd Ghana, emphasized the importance of protecting digital assets and intellectual property: <blockquote>"Digital content management is a serious business. Companies invest time, expertise, and financial resources into building online platforms for artists. Unauthorized takeovers not only violate agreements but also undermine trust in the industry. This case is about ensuring that contractual obligations are honored and digital rights are protected."</blockquote> <h4 data-end="3351" data-start="3313"><strong data-end="3351" data-start="3313">Call for Industry-Wide Regulations</strong></h4> <p data-end="3541" data-start="3353">OFM Computer World is urging stakeholders in the music and entertainment industry to establish clearer regulations governing digital content ownership and management. The company calls on:</p> <ul data-end="3869" data-start="3543"> <li data-end="3629" data-start="3543"> <p data-end="3629" data-start="3545">Music labels and managers to enforce stricter agreements regarding online platforms.</p> </li> <li data-end="3744" data-start="3631"> <p data-end="3744" data-start="3633">Artists to honor contractual obligations and seek proper legal consultation before making unauthorized changes.</p> </li> <li data-end="3869" data-start="3746"> <p data-end="3869" data-start="3748">Tech companies like YouTube and Google to enhance their dispute resolution mechanisms to prevent digital hijacking cases.</p> </li> </ul> <h4><strong>Looking Ahead</strong></h4> <p data-end="4340" data-start="3890">As the legal case proceeds, OFM Computer World remains committed to reclaiming the EstherSmithMusic channel and ensuring justice is served. The company also advises businesses and artists to establish strong digital content policies to prevent similar disputes. OFM Computer World is confident that justice will prevail and that YouTube will take appropriate action to restore rightful ownership of the channel.</p> This ongoing dispute serves as a pivotal moment for the African entertainment industry, highlighting the necessity for clear agreements and the protection of digital rights in an increasingly digital world. <blockquote cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@ghanaregions/video/7469059951864892694" class="tiktok-embed" data-video-id="7469059951864892694" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;"><section><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@ghanaregions?refer=embed" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="@ghanaregions">@ghanaregions</a> Esther Smith is going to pŕisøn. <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/esthersmithghana?refer=embed" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="esthersmithghana">#EstherSmithGhana</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/ghana?refer=embed" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="ghana">#Ghana</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/ghanaregions?refer=embed" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="ghanaregions">#GhanaRegions</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/foryou?refer=embed" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="foryou">#foryou</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/multidebrichgroup?refer=embed" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="multidebrichgroup">#MultiDebrichGroup</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/esthersmithgh?refer=embed" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="esthersmithgh">#EstherSmithGh</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-7469060044572019478?refer=embed" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="♬ original sound - Ghana Regions">♬ original sound - Ghana Regions</a></section></blockquote> <script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></div></div>

Debrich Group Dr Debrich Jeremiah Entertainment Esther Smith Featured OFM Computer World Religion Religious News OFM Computer World Demands $240K from Esther Smith Over Digital Revenue - Dr. Debrich Jeremiah

Esther Smith, Dr Debrich Jeremiah, OFM Computer World The Ghanaian gospel music industry is witnessing a legal dispute, with OFM Computer W...

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2024 Ghana Elections Update - Live Radio & Live TV Stations

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirklQ2pq6o99nzfLnHd_6tkOCzWMrRUrYK6YElk_IK5Mwn72I9J0mfTojAxfq0SXUu4mNSF_gXDjmSNMli0lfhMfWfiAHIUy2__wOCcN_Vv0CfpmOXqZ5G46_adg0d5JyACvzjDvmrcMEaGqOyS-5PO1hIfXI9lCi4-b32BXC01vESzH6LGGxHImm5IJ-G/s1280/ghana-elections-update-accra.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="Ghana Elections Update, Mahamudu Bawumia, John Dramani Mahama" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirklQ2pq6o99nzfLnHd_6tkOCzWMrRUrYK6YElk_IK5Mwn72I9J0mfTojAxfq0SXUu4mNSF_gXDjmSNMli0lfhMfWfiAHIUy2__wOCcN_Vv0CfpmOXqZ5G46_adg0d5JyACvzjDvmrcMEaGqOyS-5PO1hIfXI9lCi4-b32BXC01vESzH6LGGxHImm5IJ-G/s600/ghana-elections-update-accra.jpg" width="600" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ghana Elections Update 2024: Mahamudu Bawumia, John Dramani Mahama</td></tr></tbody></table><h2>ACCRA: Today, December 7, 2024, Ghanaians are actively voting in the much-anticipated presidential and parliamentary elections.</h2><h3>According to ACCRA24.COM analyst, 17 million registered voters are expected to cast their ballots across 40,976 polling stations in 276 constituencies.</h3><p>The elections are a pivotal moment for Ghana as it seeks to consolidate its democratic traditions amidst significant economic and social challenges.</p><h4><strong>Key Developments</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Peaceful Voting with Isolated Incidents</strong>: While the voting process has been largely peaceful, isolated incidents, including a tragic shooting in Nyankpala that left one dead and two injured, have marred the day. Security has been heightened to ensure the safety of voters nationwide.</li><li><strong>Candidates and Parties</strong>: Leading contenders include Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and several others, including independent candidates. The NPP and NDC remain the dominant players, with Mahama emphasizing economic reforms and Bawumia focusing on continuity.</li><li><strong>Major Issues</strong>: Economic hardship, youth unemployment, education, healthcare, and infrastructure are the top concerns for voters. Ghana’s return to IMF support has dominated political debates, influencing campaign narratives.</li><li><strong>Observers</strong>: Over 4,000 local and international observers, including CODEO and other organizations, are monitoring the elections to ensure transparency.</li></ul><h4> </h4><h4><strong>Voter Dynamics By Ghana Multi Debrich Group Ltd.<br /></strong></h4><p>This election sees an influx of over 700,000 first-time voters, many of whom belong to Generation Z. The participation of young voters is crucial, as they comprise over 55% of the electorate. However, economic disenfranchisement and voter apathy remain concerns, especially among the youth.</p><h4><strong>Results and Next Steps</strong></h4><p>Vote counting will commence immediately after polling closes, with the Electoral Commission set to release certified results. If no presidential candidate secures over 50% of valid votes, a runoff will be organized.</p><p>For live updates, including radio and TV broadcasts of election results and analysis, you can download Ghanaian apps directly from the <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/dev?id=5442149432780919395" rel="noopener" target="_new">Google Play Store</a> for convenient access to FM radio and TV stations covering the event.</p><p>Ghana's election today is a testament to its vibrant democratic ethos, with citizens eager to shape the future direction of the country.</p><p><br /></p><p><b>Source: ACCRA24.COM</b></p>

Accra 24 hours News Accra Breaking News Africa News Featured Ghana Elections Update Local News Politics 2024 Ghana Elections Update - Live Radio & Live TV Stations

Ghana Elections Update 2024: Mahamudu Bawumia, John Dramani Mahama ACCRA: Today, December 7, 2024, Ghanaians are actively voting in the much...

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Coach Otto Addo ahead of Ghana vs Central African Republic

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoy_vfqn6GBCCznPZZ1kEy_1dqs5uQYk9g93m-SIX5lvaGM8EbTys0ki8aFk2a_SNApAyPQpITIFoiU4I9vY1YZHzwe1-cXChGs2r_maSPvyrIKFVy3zT7eaxQ3U538Dbj_tonHNVkmg8LuoBwxwYKx_x3DHC_2Avx9N9dbnj2OFn-HB80ewKwlA69oT-s/s960/Kudus%20and%20coach%20Otto%20Addo.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoy_vfqn6GBCCznPZZ1kEy_1dqs5uQYk9g93m-SIX5lvaGM8EbTys0ki8aFk2a_SNApAyPQpITIFoiU4I9vY1YZHzwe1-cXChGs2r_maSPvyrIKFVy3zT7eaxQ3U538Dbj_tonHNVkmg8LuoBwxwYKx_x3DHC_2Avx9N9dbnj2OFn-HB80ewKwlA69oT-s/s600/Kudus%20and%20coach%20Otto%20Addo.jpg" width="600" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kudus and coach Otto Addo</td></tr></tbody></table><p> <strong>Head coach Otto Addo took his seat in the press conference room at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday to handle his pre-match media duties before our game against Central African Republic.</strong></p><p>With the 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket up for grabs, he revealed his mindset heading into the crunch clash with the Central Africans, as well as discusses the importance of playing in front of a bubbly and cheerful crowed and much more.</p><p>The transcript is below:</p><p><strong>On lessons from the game against Mali and approach</strong> <strong>to CAR game</strong></p><p>One thing is for sure. I think it’s going to be very, very difficult. For anyone who thinks that we can just play them like that, I don’t it will happen. It if happens, I take it. But it’s very, very difficult to beat them. We have analyzed them well. They are doing well, especially in their offensive transitions and always dangerous. They played 1-1 against Mali so we know what to expect. Despite the win, we can’t relax now, we have to continue. Big, big congratulations to the team for this fighting spirit. Coming from one nil down to get a late goal and be mentally strong and have the right team spirit to turn this result around. I think the boys run a lot, they did a lot of good work especially, defensive. Even though we allowed too many chances but if you watch the game closely you will see how even our offensive players were working against the ball in the heat of 42 degrees. Sometimes we missed some offensive actions, but the way they played from the front to the midfield, how Kudus, Ernest Nuamah worked defensively was massive. And this atmosphere in the stadium to survive is amazing. In the end the players that came in gave us freshness, strength and crating chances was really, really good to see. These are the kind of games that makes a team grow together. We still have to learn from the mistakes from that game. Everybody knows we have a young squad so I think it was a very, very good experience to get into the next games.</p><p><strong>On response from Kumasi fans going into his second game </strong></p><p>I was really overwhelmed the last we came here. To be honest I didn’t expect that because you can’t take that for granted especially after a bad AFCON that people are still supporting you. This is what makes me love Kumasi no matter what. In football and in every situation when you are down that is when you need support mostly and so I will; never forget what Kumasi did for us. They cheered us up and I think we had a decent game. We had 60% ball possession, we dominated them (Nigeria), we were just missing a goal. It was really, really good to see and I love coming to Kumasi and play here. Now this is surely what I expect also the support till the last whistle is made and I am very, very happy to be here. Because I know this will give extra kick to the players. Even in hard times or when things are hard they will support and it’s a good feeling. Mentally it’s good for the players to come here and know they have the backing of the Kumasi fans.</p><p><strong>On injuries</strong></p><p>We had some few injuries. Like I said it was a tough, tough match but it seems everybody will train fully today and I am sure that everybody will be ready for tomorrow’s game.</p><p><strong>On impact of substitutes in Mali game and having options </strong></p><p>For me, it’s very, very important. I know some might not understand sometimes if one player is called and the other not. There are so many different reasons. Sometimes a player is sick or injured, sometimes he can’t come. Sometimes he doesn’t feel strong enough to come and some players we talked to are still deciding whether to play for Ghana or for another country so it’s different reasons. But for me it’s very, very important to have different options. Sometimes you need a striker like Jordan (Ayew) who can hold the ball or somebody who goes one against one like Kudus, or sometimes you have a more defensive structure for the game. It depends on who we are playing and so for me it’s very, very decisive to see the options to score goals and also the best option how to defend and based on that plus the training, plus the games they played for their teams decides who will play but it has to fit with the opponent we have and this is very, very important for me and I was happy that the players who came in made an impact. Mumin (Abdul) was there straight, Jordan (Ayew) scored the winning goal and had a good assist where Thomas almost scored, Fatawu (Issahaku) was pressing well and looking really, really sharp, winning the ball for us to have the winning goal. Elisha (Owusu) was there on point, stopped some important attacks against us and I was really, really happy to have this bench. In all, I am happy with the squad and the way the guys presented themselves, very, very disciplined. They had a lot of fun; surely when you win you have a lot of fun but also before and the way the guys engaged with each other, I really, really like it and I think there is a lot to come for the future. Like I said Mali was a very, very good experience with a happy end. Even if we would have played 1-1, I would have been very, very happy about this squad.</p><p><strong>On Baba Yara Stadium pitch</strong></p><p>I really have to say Mali have a wonderful pitch. I know it’s difficult to judge our pitches. We wish the pitches will be better even when we trained in Accra. These are things that we need to work on all together. I hope that it will get better but this is the way it is and this is how we take it. When I was playing the pitches were worse so things are getting better gradually and I think we all have to push to make things better. But it’s not a topic for us to be honest. We are just focusing on the game; it’s the same condition for our opponents so for me it doesn’t matter. I trained and played on worse pitches.</p><p><strong>On assessment of the team in friendlies against Nigeria and Uganda and the qualifier against Mali</strong></p><p>The good thing is that I don’t think I will ever be satisfied to be honest. It is difficult to compare the two games where we had the freedom to experiment. We had a lot of new players there; we had a lot of new players and younger players than we have now so it is very, very different. Surely I want to win and the team wants to win every game but it’s different if you have friendlies where you can prepare yourself for the official games. I will always want to win, Ghanaians always want to win but friendly games are totally different. I have to try some things and I have to get some answers to the questions I have about the player and for this I have to try new players. I have to give them chances. I have to see which positions they are capable of playing and how they combine in various formations so for me we want to win every game but you can’t compare friendly games to the official games.</p><p><strong>On Ghanaians seeing the World Cup an opportunity for visa and the pressure associated with it</strong></p><p>Pressure is part of football and to be honest when I was playing there was much more pressure because there you have to play. You have to be disciplined on the pitch and this is way, way tougher than being a coach. I can just talk like you guys (Journalists). If I want to make it easy, if it doesn’t work then I will say the players didn’t do what I said. So it’s very, very easy for me. We all want to go. Some have been to the World Cup already, for some it will be the first time, for some it could be the last time so it’s always a big, big thing for the national team to qualify. What I can say from my point of view, I had the experience and to be honest the pressure in the two games against Nigeria was much, much higher because sometimes I think people forget where we are coming from. Before the World Cup we came out of the African Cup in the first round. Now also its not so easy to prepare a team for that matter to have everybody switching to my style of play and to be attentive, and to be positive and to believe after such a bad tournament. To be believe in the coaches, to believe in their team mates and themselves is very, very difficult so again, big, big props to the players for adapting to my style so fast. We had one week of training and I think they really, really did well and that is why they got rewarded with this win.</p><p><strong>On whether the team understands that people view the World Cup as an opportunity to travel to the USA for greener pastures</strong></p><p>Sure. Every player wants to go to the World Cup no matter what is it. I don’t know, may be Ghanaians should know that there are a lot of job opportunities in Qatar as well. But surely we just want to go there. Everybody wants to go there, not only us, also Mali, also the other teams, also Central African Republic. They all want to go there. They will die to go there and our players as well. I can see in the last game and I can feel in training where players are fighting for their spots, and we have to stop the training and calm them down sometimes so I can really feel how the players are eager to win and the players are giving their all to qualify for this World Cup.</p><p><strong>On Central African Republic stretching Ghana the last time we met and approach  </strong></p><p>I can’t be too specific with the approach because I don’t know what our opponents to know what we are trying to do. I know their strength is offensive transitions, we have to stop that. And once we stop that we have the opportunity to score a goal. I will bring the formation which is the freshest for the mostly likely positions to outscore them. But they have proven against Mali that can play a draw or win against any team so that will be tough. And surely, we prepared ourselves and watched a lot of matches and we have had a lot of analysis. And I am very sure that we have picked the right things out on where we have to improve. And also the right solutions on how we can play them out and if things work out, we will win this game.</p><p><strong>On playing a team considered as a minnow and its importance</strong></p><p>It’s a very, very important game. Like I said from the beginning, we have to take it serious; it’s going to be tough. Like in the past, I think we had problems when we are the favorites and now it was for us to use these three days to work on solutions on how we can outplay them. Which positions we can take, how we can position ourselves to bring out our biggest strength, especially on our offensive players. And I am confident that it will work but action speaks louder than words so we have to see what happens tomorrow. But I hope that we can create a lot of chances and when we do that, we will score.</p><p><strong>GFA COMMUNICATIONS</strong></p>

African Sports Featured Ghana Sports Sports Coach Otto Addo ahead of Ghana vs Central African Republic

Kudus and coach Otto Addo   Head coach Otto Addo took his seat in the press conference room at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday to han...

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