Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube
Listen to Orange FM Live
Home Blog Page 108

A/R: PURC recovers over GH¢260,000 from utility companies as refund for consumers

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has successfully retrieved a total of GH¢262,558.53 from utility companies, including the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Ghana Water Limited, as refunds for consumers in 2024.

This initiative is designed to promote equitable utility usage and hold service providers accountable for their operations.

It also serves to motivate utility companies to meet their obligations more diligently.

At a press conference in Kumasi, Mr. Richard Asiedu, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) for PURC in the Ashanti region, explained that the refunds were necessitated by various consumer grievances, including overbilling, inaccuracies in metering, unlawful disconnections, and damage to household appliances caused by voltage fluctuations.

Mr. Asiedu also revealed that the PURC has also collected GH¢396,010.00 from construction firms as compensation for damages inflicted on the Ghana Water Limited’s infrastructure during roadworks.

He noted that the Ghana Water Company has made significant progress in repairing the majority of the damaged transmission pipes.

An amount of GH¢178,368.42 was also recovered as revenue.

In terms of service improvements, the Ashanti Regional Office reported the completion of 18 pole replacements, 31 faulty meter replacements, 4 new service connections, 12 transformer replacements, and 30 pipe repairs.

Meanwhile, in 2024, the Ashanti Regional Office received a total of 1,101 complaints against the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Ghana Water Limited (GWL).

Of these, 1,050 complaints, representing 95.4%, were resolved.

1,043 complaints (94.7%) were lodged against ECG, while 58 complaints (5.3%) were filed against GWL in the Ashanti Region.

Mahama Orders Finance Minister to Fix $156M USAID Funding Gap

By
Ivy Hollys
-
official-portrait-of-John-mahama :free tertiary education

President John Mahama has directed the Finance Minister to resolve a $156 million United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funding gap.

The shortfall follows the suspension of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) program in Ghana.

A February 11 statement from the Presidency warns of serious risks to essential health and social intervention programs.

A $78.2 million deficit threatens malaria prevention, maternal and child healthcare, family planning, reproductive health, and nutrition services.

The funding gap also jeopardizes Ghana’s HIV/AIDS response, limiting access to antiretroviral drugs, testing, and preventive care.

To prevent disruptions, Mahama has instructed the Finance Ministry to prioritize urgent funding solutions for affected programs.

Background of USAID

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is an independent agency of the United States government that is primarily responsible for administering civilian foreign aid and development assistance.

USAID was established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy to unite several existing foreign assistance organizations and programs under one agency. Statute law places USAID under “the direct authority and policy guidance of the Secretary of State“.[4] It implements programs in global health, disaster relief, socio-economic development, environmental protection, democratic governance and education. 

With average annual disbursements of about $23 billion since 2001, USAID is one of the largest official aid agencies in the world and accounts for more than half of all U.S. foreign assistance—the highest in the world in absolute dollar terms. USAID has missions in over 100 countries, primarily in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe.

In 2025, the second Trump administration announced sweeping changes to USAID. President Donald Trump ordered a near-total freeze on all foreign aid.

See statement below:

USAID

Police on manhunt for thugs who disrupted Council of State elections in Kumasi

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

The Ghana Police Service has launched an investigation to identify the alleged NDC thugs who vandalized electoral materials, leading to the suspension of the Council of State elections in Kumasi.

In a statement, the police indicated that they are currently reviewing footage from the incident to help apprehend those responsible and ensure justice is served.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene as the intruders forcibly entered the facility, overturning tables, damaging ballot boxes, and scattering essential voting materials.

This disruption forced officials from the Electoral Commission (EC) to halt the election process.

The unrest is believed to have been triggered by the unexpected defeat of Yaw Owusu Obimpeh, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate who was widely expected to win.

Supporters of Obimpeh, reportedly angered by the election results, allegedly incited the violence and called for a review of the outcome.

Security personnel stationed at the center faced difficulties in managing the escalating tensions, which ultimately led to the temporary suspension of the electoral proceedings.

In response, additional law enforcement officers have been deployed to restore order and protect the electoral materials.

Alleged NDC thugs disrupt Council of State election in Kumasi

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

Chaos erupted during the Council of State elections in the Ashanti Region when a group of unidentified individuals stormed the election center, leading to significant disruptions in the sorting and counting of ballots.

Witnesses described a scene of pandemonium as the intruders forcibly entered the facility, overturning tables, damaging ballot boxes, and scattering essential voting materials.

This turmoil forced officials from the Electoral Commission (EC) to halt the election process.

The unrest is thought to have been sparked by the surprising defeat of Yaw Owusu Obimpeh, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate who was anticipated to win.

Supporters of Obimpeh, reportedly upset by the election results, allegedly incited the violence, calling for a review of the outcome.

Security personnel station at the centre faced challenges in managing the escalating tensions, which led to a temporary suspension of the electoral proceedings.

In response to the situation, additional law enforcement officers have been dispatched to restore order and protect the electoral materials.

Ghana Fire Service Warns of Expiring Cooking Cylinders

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
ADO1 Antwi Bosiako advises checking cooking gas cylinders expiry dates to prevent fires. That is every five years and dispose after twenty.
ADO1 Antwi Bosiako speaking on the Orange Sunrise

Assistant Divisional Officer (ADO1) Antwi Bosiako of the Ghana Fire Service in the Ashanti Region has issued a critical safety alert to the public, emphasizing the importance of regularly checking the expiry dates of cooking cylinders to prevent devastating fire outbreaks.

According to ADO1 Antwi Bosiako, these expiry dates are marked on the Bottom,
, Handle, and Knob of the cooking cylinder

Mr. Antwi stresses that when purchasing a cylinder, the first and most crucial check is the expiry date. This simple step can save properties from ravaging fires.

Additionally, ADO1 Antwi Bosiako advises the public to inspect the state of their gas cylinders every five years to ensure they remain fit for purpose. He also warns that cylinders should be disposed of after twenty years of use.

“To ensure safety, the public is advised to buy cylinders from authorized and reputable dealers. By being vigilant and taking these precautions, we can collectively reduce the risk of fire outbreaks and protect our communities.”he added

Parliamentary Proceedings: Everything You Need To Know About Vetting Chaos

By
Ivy Hollys
-
parliamentary proceedings
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin

Tensions rose in the Ghanaian Parliament as confusion over scheduling led to heated exchanges and a physical altercation during parliamentary proceedings.

The situation unfolded after a series of changes to the schedule, which had been affected by adjustments to outstanding work from Wednesday’s session. Initially, a revised schedule had placed a nomination for Thursday’s business, but later changes moved certain items to Friday. This shift led to a situation where the minority leader expressed willingness to prioritize a specific nomination for Thursday’s business. But concerns were raised regarding the fairness of this decision.

A series of disagreements ensued when it was decided that only certain individuals would be vetted on the day, with others postponed to a later date. The Speaker of Parliament, in an attempt to manage the situation, spoke of the challenges of maintaining the schedule and the difficulty of accommodating the minority leader’s requests.

Speaker of parliament emphasized the importance of sticking to the parliamentary schedule. Nothing that a decision to change the agenda late in the day, after much work had already been done, created confusion and frustrations among the members.

The Speaker also expressed concerns about a decision made in the evening that would stop a number of individuals from being vetted as originally planned. Despite efforts to communicate with those involved and to find a resolution, these changes resulted in escalating tensions. And also, physical confrontations eventually broke out during the parliamentary proceedings.

As tempers flared, the Speaker intervened in an attempt to maintain order, particularly when one of the committee members, identified as Chas, was involved in a confrontation with another parliamentarian. The situation became more intense when the two men became physically engaged, with one member being trapped between tables. The Speaker was seen rushing to prevent further escalation, while security personnel attempted to intervene.

In a statement, the Speaker emphasized the importance of professionalism and decorum in the parliamentary setting. Calling on colleagues to maintain respect for each other despite differing opinions in the parliamentary proceedings. The Speaker’s efforts were supported by Deputy Marshal Bawa and other security personnel, who worked to de-escalate the situation.

Despite the chaos, the Speaker sought to restore calm by urging members to focus on completing the evening’s business and return the next day to continue their work.

Chaos Erupts in Ghana’s Parliamentary Proceedings Over Ministerial Vetting

Chaos erupted in Ghana’s parliamentary proceedings late on Thursday night during a meeting to vet the country’s new ministerial appointments, leading to the destruction of furniture and physical altercations between lawmakers.

Police were called to the scene as MPs damaged tables and microphones in the midst of the chaos during the parliamentary proceedings. The vetting committee, responsible for reviewing ministerial nominations, had disagreed on several issues. With the accusations that opposition MPs were dragging out the process to settle political scores.

On Friday morning, the chairman of the vetting committee issued an apology to the Ghanaian public, describing the events as “totally unacceptable.”

The cross-party committee had been scheduled to vet three lawmakers from the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC). They had been nominated for ministerial positions after the NDC’s victory over the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in December’s elections.

However, NDC MPs expressed frustration over the lengthy questioning of the nominees, particularly the leader of the NPP in parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin. He was accused of prolonging the vetting process, spending over five hours questioning communications minister-designate Samuel Nartey George.

Many NDC MPs believed the extended questioning was a form of retribution from opposition members, who wanted George to retract his criticism of former President Nana Akufo-Addo and Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia.

Tensions escalated as committee members began shouting, pushing, and shoving each other, resulting in the upturning of tables during the parliamentary proceedings. In response, the Speaker of Parliament suspended four lawmakers — three from the NPP and one from the NDC — for two weeks.

On Friday, Afenyo-Markin defended the extended questioning, stating that parliamentary customs allowed committee members to “enquire deeply into every nominee of the president, without limit to questions.” He accused the NDC of attempting to “frustrate” the process.

Due to the disruptions, the vetting session was adjourned until Friday, with the chaos leaving a significant impact on the proceedings.

The 10 benefits of ORAL According to Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa

By
Ivy Hollys
-
Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa

The Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Team, chaired by Hon. Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa, has uncovered shocking cases of mismanagement and attempted illegal takeovers of state assets. The team’s report, presented to President John Dramani Mahama, highlights unlawful land sales, fraudulent vehicle re-registrations, and the prevention of numerous government property seizures.

Speaking at the presentation, Hon. Ablakwa emphasized that ORAL’s work was both relevant and timely, describing the President’s decision to establish the team as a “masterstroke.” According to him, the initiative has played a crucial role in safeguarding national assets and ensuring accountability. Below are the 10 key benefits of ORAL as outlined by its chairman:

1. Deepened Transparency and Accountability

ORAL has increased public awareness about the need to protect state assets and has set a precedent for future governments. “Government officials are now more conscious,” Ablakwa noted, stressing that the initiative serves as a guiding framework for the incoming administration.

2. Prevention of Illegal Demolition of 50 Government Bungalows

The team prevented the demolition of 50 government-owned bungalows, which were nearly seized by private developers. These properties, belonging to institutions such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Gender and Social Protection, were at risk until National Security intervened following ORAL’s prompt action. “But for the present establishment of Oral, we take the view that all of these 50 bungalows will have been demolished,” Ablakwa explained.

3. Collaboration with National Security to save Northern Development Authority lands at Cantonments: 

On the eve of the President’s inauguration, a private developer attempted to seize Northern Development Authority (NDA) land at Cantonments, erecting walls overnight. ORAL’s intervention led to National Security stepping in to reclaim the land for the state.

4. Prevention of Illegal Takeover of Government Vehicles

ORAL exposed a scheme where state vehicles were being re-registered with new license plates to disguise them as privately owned. Acting on these findings, National Security intervened, preventing the loss of hundreds of vehicles. “we have videos and pictures of vehicles whose number plates were being changed so that they will virtually steal them for private use. Again, acting on those tip-offs, National Security moved in quickly and we were able to save a good number, hundreds of these vehicles,” Ablakwa revealed.

5. Prevention of the Dubois Museum Center Takeover

A private foundation attempted to claim ownership of the Dubois Museum Center, leading to a dispute. ORAL facilitated mediation, ensuring that the historic landmark remains under government oversight. “what we have done now is to ask that the factions should meet and the new Minister for Tourism should resolve the matters. Again, if ORAL had not been established, only God knows what would have happened at the Du Bois Center,” Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa stated.

6. Protection of Agri-Mechanization Lands at Cantonments

Large portions of government land designated for agricultural mechanization were being encroached upon. ORAL’s efforts saved 80% of the land, although 20% had already been developed. “their cold room was on the verge of being demolished. And so we called National Security. They moved in and we have been able to save large portions….I would say, about 20% of the land has seen some development,” Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa added.

7. Prevention of Demolition of Ghana Museums and Monuments Board Bungalows

State-owned bungalows under the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board were sold. However, ORAL’s intervention halted their demolition, safeguarding historical state assets.

8. Established a Peaceful and Non-Confrontational Complaint System

According to Ablakwa, Ghana’s political transitions often fuel acrimony and tension, sometimes escalating into violence. ORAL provided a structured, legal channel for citizens to report state asset looting, preventing individuals from taking the law into their own hands.

9. Encouraged Voluntary Returns of Looted State Property

Several individuals who illegally acquired state assets have approached ORAL, offering to return what belongs to the Ghanaian people. The President and his legal advisors will review the next steps. “Quite a number of persons of interest have reached out…… the President and his legal advisors will take a decision on the way forward,” Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa disclosed.

10. Attracted Local and International Support for Forensic Investigations

ORAL has garnered significant interest from local and international bodies, with forensic experts offering assistance in tracking offshore assets looted from Ghana. “We have received a number of international requests to support this initiative of the President in terms of forensics and to help in offshore retrievals,” Ablakwa confirmed.

Potential Recovery of $20.49 Billion in Stolen Assets

With 36 cases currently under review, ORAL estimates that if recoveries are successful, Ghana could retrieve as much as $20.49 billion. Some major cases under scrutiny include:

  • National Cathedral Project
  • PDS Scandal
  • SML Contract Irregularities
  • GMPC Salt Pond Decommissioning

Hon. Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa reiterated that ORAL’s work is far from over and that the fight against corruption and asset mismanagement must continue beyond their current mandate.

Read also:ORAL: Team Present Report to President John Dramani Mahama

Bawku: Gunmen attack bus one dead, five critically injured

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

Gunmen assault on a bus traveling from Bawku to Bolgatanga has resulted in one fatality and left five individuals in critical condition.

The attack occurred while the bus was under military escort, but the assailants managed to ambush the vehicle.

Fortunately, the military personnel accompanying the bus were able to respond swiftly, preventing additional casualties.

The injured passengers were promptly transported to the Upper East Regional Hospital in Bolgatanga for emergency medical care.

Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the attack, although it is believed to be connected to the ongoing chieftaincy disputes in the Bawku region.

This incident marks a concerning escalation in violence, as the Bawku area had experienced a brief period of calm lasting approximately two weeks.

Prior to this, a violent episode saw gunmen in military attire invade a home, resulting in the deaths of a woman and her two children.

With this latest attack, the death toll in the region has risen to 46 since the resurgence of conflict in October 2024.

A/R: Fire claims life of nurse and her three children

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

A heartbreaking fire incident in Gyinyase within the Asokwa Municipality of the Ashanti Region has resulted in the deaths of Linda Agyemang, a nurse at the Kumasi South Hospital, and her three children.

The family was unable to escape their three-bedroom home as flames engulfed the building, despite the relentless efforts of neighbors and passersby who attempted to rescue them.

The fierce intensity of the fire rendered access to the house nearly impossible.

The blaze erupted in the early hours of Saturday, shocking the local community.

Firefighters responded promptly to the emergency call and were able to douse the flames; however, the victims were discovered in the bathroom, tragically burnt beyond recognition.

A neighbor, Kwabena, said all efforts to rescue the victims were unsuccessful.

“I heard them shouting, ‘Dad, Kwabena, please save us.’ I quickly grabbed an object and hit the door several times, but it wouldn’t open. We managed to break through the first door, but then a gas cylinder in the kitchen exploded, causing the fire to escalate. At that point, there was nothing more we could do,” he said.

The remains of the victims have been taken to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) for preservation.

Meanwhile, authorities have initiated an investigation to uncover the cause of the fire.

PURC, ECG officials in Ashanti Region hold one-day workshop on billing-related complaints

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

Officials of Public Utility and Regulatory Commission and the Electricity Company of Ghana in the Ashanti Region have held a one-day workshop on ECG’s billing-related concerns in the Region, and how to  strategically resolve the challenge.

The Ashanti Regional Manager of PURC, Mr. Edward Kingston Boduah in his presentation remarked that the issuance and delivery of electricity bills and resolution of anomalies of same are crucial activities of ECG and must be done in accordance with the relevant regulations (I.e. LI 2413) to reduce billing-related complaints.

He further indicated that consumer complaints of suspected billing anomalies have soared in the region, which must be addressed forthwith.

ECG officials led by the Regional Commercial Manager (RCM) of Ashanti West Region, Mr. Jonathan Asante also took the opportunity to make a PowerPoint presentation on the ‘ECG Power App and Billing Software’ among others.

He also assured the Commission of their resolve to observe the relevant regulations (LI 2413) in the discharge of their duties as well  as collaborate to resolve consumer complaints in the region.

1...107108109...172Page 108 of 172

Recent Posts

Email: info@focus1mediagh.com