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LGBTQI Bill will be Reintroduced in the 9th Parliament – Sam George

sam george on airteltigo deal

During his vetting, Sam George reaffirmed his commitment to the anti-LGBTQI bill. He stated that the bill would be reintroduced in the ninth Parliament, either as a government bill or a private member’s bill.

He made it clear that he remains committed to protecting Ghanaian family values and children’s innocence. He emphasized that the bill is a crucial part of national life and must be pursued for the moral and cultural integrity of the country. “My position is that that bill is a critical part of our national life. Ghanaian family values, our children’s innocence, must be protected. It is a critical part of our national life. Ghanaian family values—our children’s innocence—must be protected,” he emphasized.

When asked about his past comments on the Chief Justice’s handling of the bill, Sam George stood by his statements. He argued that the Chief Justice delayed action on the matter and insisted that his concerns had been vindicated. He stated that his views on the issue remain unchanged. 

He said, “My opinions about the actions and inaction of the Chief Justice remain. They are unchanged, and they have been vindicated by the actions of the Chief Justice post my demonstration against her. She could have taken action earlier.”

Sam George on Mahama’s Stance on the LGBTQI Bill

On the matter of President Mahama’s stance on the bill, Sam George clarified that all bills that were not assented to before the expiration of the eighth Parliament had expired. However, he assured the committee that discussions on the bill would resume in the ninth Parliament to build consensus on the way forward.

He quoted President John Dramani Mahama’s statement during his meeting at the Catholic Bishops Conference. “I wish to quote what he said, parts of what he said, with your permission. So the convention is that all bills that are not assented to before the expiration of the life of Parliament expire. And so that bill effectively is dead. It has expired. I don’t know what the promoters of the bill intend to do, but I do think that we should have a conversation on it again….so that all of us if we decide to move that bill forward, move it forward with a consensus,” he read. 

He concluded by reiterating that the anti-LGBTQI bill remains a priority for him and that he will take steps to ensure its passage in the new Parliament.

Sam George completed his education in Nigeria and Ghana, earning a degree in agricultural engineering at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. 

He has served in various ministries in government, including the communications and labor relations board. He is currently the minister-designate for communications, digital technology, and innovations in science and technology.

Read also: Supreme Court to Deliver Judgment on Anti-LGBTQI Case On December 18

Sam George on Cybersecurity, 5G, and Internet Connectivity Concerns

sam george

Minister-designate for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations Science and Technology, Sam George, has emphasized the need for stronger cybersecurity measures in Ghana. During his visit, he stated that the country must proactively address digital threats to safeguard national security and economic growth.

Responding to questions on how he intends to handle cyber threats, Sam George assured the committee that his ministry would prioritize cybersecurity policies. He stressed that with the rise in cybercrime, government agencies and businesses must be equipped with modern tools to combat digital threats effectively.

He criticized past government policies on SIM re-registration, calling them flawed. He insisted that the re-registration process should be reviewed to ensure efficiency without causing unnecessary inconvenience to Ghanaians. According to him, the current system has not adequately protected the digital identities of citizens.

5G and Internet Connectivity

Sam George acknowledged that while Ghana launched its 5G network, many rural areas still struggle with poor internet access. He assured the vetting committee that the government would not abandon 3G and 4G networks while rolling out 5G. 

He emphasized that the government would address connectivity challenges. He said, “Chairman, following on your premise, the Honorable Member has just admitted the failings of the past government over the last eight years, but we would fix it. President Mahama is here to reset the country, and in resetting it, we’ll fix it. Fixing 3G, 4G, and ruling out 5G are not mutually exclusive.”

SIM Re-registration and Data Integration

Sam George criticized the previous government’s approach to SIM re-registration, calling it a waste of productive hours. He pledged a new system that eliminates long queues by integrating telco data with the National Identification Authority’s (NIA) biometric database. “We will do a proper re-registration again. But this time, nobody’s going to queue, because common sense will prevail, expertise will prevail, and logic will work. The MNOs hold a certain set of data.

We would use technology to cross-reference that against the NIA’s database and all biometric databases. And only instances where there are disparities would require you visit a Mobile Network Operators (MNO) shop,” he emphasized. 

He assured Ghanaians that the re-registration process would not cost them money. “Unlike under the immediate past government where people had to pay to use an app, no Ghanaian will have to pay for this,” he explained.

I would not be afraid to impose fines – Sam George.

Samuel Nartey George
Hon. Samuel Nartey George

Minister-designate for Communications, Hon. Sam Nartey George has emphatically stated that he would not shy away from imposing fines on Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) who fail to provide the quality of telecommunication services Ghanaians deserve.

Speaking at his vetting by the Appointments Committee of Parliament, the minister-designate explained that if he is approved by parliament, his ministry would work closely with the National Communications Authority(NCA) to provide more spectrums for all MNOs and raise the KPIs to ensure high standard of service for consumers.

He said this as a strategy to ensure quality call service and reduce the cost of call service for Ghanaians.

The Minister-designate says he is committed to ensuring quality telecommunication services.

Court Orders Anas Aremeyaw Anas to Testify Without Mask

The Court of Appeal has ruled that investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas must testify in open court without his signature mask.

The ruling delivered on Thursday, January 30, 2025, applies to the ongoing case of Republic v. Kwesi Nyantakyi.

A panel of Justices Anthony Oppong, Ackaah Boafo, and Aboagye Tandoh unanimously decided that Anas could not testify while concealing his identity. Justice Ackaah Boafo emphasized that an accused person’s constitutional right to a fair trial outweighs any claims of witness protection.

He emphasized the constitutional right of an accused person to a fair trial, stating that this right supersedes the witness protection principles invoked by the state. The court ruled that the accused person’s right to see and challenge their accuser in a criminal trial took precedence.

It also criticized the High Court for reconsidering the state’s request to allow Anas to testify in disguise. The judges stated that the High Court should have adhered to a previous Supreme Court ruling on the same matter.

The ruling stated, “The doctrine of stare decisis binds lower courts to the decisions of higher courts, and as such, the High Court erred in revisiting an issue already settled by the Supreme Court.” 

With this decision, Anas must appear in court without his trademark hood when testifying against the former GFA president. Nyantakyi faces charges linked to Anas’ 2018 Number 12 documentary, which exposed alleged corruption in Ghanaian football.

President Mahama Swears in 8 Member Committee to Review 1992 Constitution

official-portrait-of-John-mahama :free tertiary education

President John Mahama has officially sworn in an eight-member committee tasked with reviewing Ghana’s 1992 Constitution. The swearing-in ceremony took place on Thursday (January 30th) at the Jubilee House, with top government officials in attendance.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, urged the committee to carry out its mandate with excellence.

He emphasized that the members were carefully chosen and must ensure a thorough and effective review of the constitution.

“You have been carefully selected for this important work on behalf of our country,” he said.

Dr. Ayine noted that the real challenge lies in proposing substantial changes and new provisions to improve governance.

 He stated, “The easier part of the job is to follow the prescribed method for altering the constitution. The more challenging aspect, and I can say this without fear of contradiction, is to recommend substantive provisions to add to or replace elements of the current constitution.” 

President Mahama also dismissed concerns that the review suggested a failure, stating that it rather reflects the nation’s democratic growth.

He explained that Constitutional reform is not an admission of failure but a recognition of our democracy. He said, “The call for constitutional reform is not an admission of failure, but an acknowledgment of progress. A recognition that our democracy must be dynamic, responsive, and ever attuned to the needs of our people.”

The committee consists of:

  • Prof. H. Kwasi Prempeh – Chairman
  • Justice Sophia Adinyirah – Member
  • Prof. Kwame Karikari – Member
  • Mrs. Charlotte Osei – Member
  • Dr. Godwin Djokoto – Member
  • Ibrahim Tanko Amidu – Member
  • Dr. Esi Ansah – Member
  • Dr. Rainer Akumperigeya – Secretary

Their work is expected to shape key constitutional reforms to strengthen Ghana’s governance and democracy.

Engagement with stakeholders key to addressing noise pollution – Murtala

Murtala to engage stakeholders on noise pollution
Hon. Murtala Mohammed

Minister designate for Environment, Science and Technology, Murtala Mohammed has stated that noise pollution could be curbed through engagements with ministries, agencies, traditional leaders and other stakeholders to address the issue of noise pollution in Ghana.

Speaking during his vetting by by the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Thursday January 30, 2025, the minister designate explained that there is no aspect of noise pollution in the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Law, providing no standards or sanctions for noise pollution. He therefore stated that he would pay keen attention to it and proposed amendments to the law to include a law for noise.

Hon. Murtala Mohammed, however stated, that policies to regulate noise in communities cannot be implemented without the engaging traditional authorities, ministry of local government and agencies of concern.

He therefore committed to engaging the various stakeholders to address the issue of noise in our communities.

Rashid Pelpuo Addresses Labour Strikes and Graduate Employability During Vetting

rashid pelpuo

During his vetting before the Parliamentary Appointment Committee, Rashid Pelpuo, Minister-designate for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, addressed concerns over industrial actions in Ghana.

Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei revealed that the National Labour Commission recorded 27 industrial actions in 2024. Of these, 21 came from the public sector, with 14 specifically from tertiary education institutions, representing 66% of all strikes. She asked Pelpuo how he intended to tackle the rising labour unrest.

Pelpuo stated that there are existing procedures for addressing organized labour concerns, and he plans to follow them. He emphasized working closely with stakeholders to ensure mutual understanding, empathy, and alignment with economic realities. He highlighted the importance of balancing productivity with earnings, saying, “What you produce and what you earn, there must be concordance.”

He further proposed redefining the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission into a Bureau of Enumeration and Productivity. He believes this shift would ensure fair compensation based on productivity levels.

Graduate Employability and Job Market Skills

Patricia Appiagyei also questioned Pelpuo on how he would collaborate with the Education Minister to ensure graduates possess the necessary skills for the job market.

In response, Rashid Pelpuo acknowledged a shift in the employment sector and stressed the need for a comprehensive review of emerging trends, digital skills, and workforce demands.

He noted that such changes could lead to reforms in labour regulations, including the potential introduction of employment law to address new labour market challenges.

Pelpuo assured the committee of his commitment to bridging the skills gap and preparing graduates for evolving job opportunities.

Read also: Rashid Pelpuo, Minister Designate for Labour, Jobs and Employment on Tackling…

Prof. Gyampo appointed Acting C.E.O of Ghana Shippers Authority.

Acting CEO of Ghana Shippers Association

Professor Ransford Gyampo has been appointed as Acting Chief Executive Officer(C.E.O) of Ghana Shippers Authority by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama.

Prof. Gyampo would succeed Kwesi Baffour Sarpong, who was appointed the Ghana Shippers Authority C.E.O in December 2024 by the then President Nana Akuffo Addo.

Prof. Ransford Gyampo is a Political science senior lecturer at the University of Ghana and doubles as a political analyst, known for his expertise in governance and political matters. He is also the Founding Director of the Center for European Studies at the University of Ghana. He is expected to bring on board his experience and expertise, to ensure the smooth running of the Ghana Shippers Authority.

Before his appointment, he served as the President of the University of Ghana’s UTAG.

As the C.E.O, he would engage stakeholders to ensure that all business practices in the commercial shipping industry in Ghana are fair, competitive, and transparent, develop clear solutions and regulations for shippers on issues like demurrage, port/border crossing delays, freight rates, local charges, service standards, etc.

Rashid Pelpuo, Minister Designate for Labour, Jobs and Employment on Tackling Child Labour

rashid pelpuo

Rashid Pelpuo, during his vetting today, acknowledged that child labour remains a pressing issue. It was noted that about 21% of children aged 5 to 17 in Ghana are affected. A committee member cited a CNN documentary highlighting the issue in the Volta Region, specifically in the fishing industry.

Rashid Pelpuo in his response cited a past parliamentary delegation to the European Union, where concerns over child labour in Ghana’s cocoa sector were discussed.

He explained that some instances of children working with their parents stem from cultural practices. However, he condemned the exploitation of children in hazardous labour conditions, including those forced to work under extreme and unsafe circumstances.

Pelpuo emphasized the importance of enforcing Ghana’s Labor Law, Act 651 (2003), to criminalize child labor. He pledged to make the eradication of child labor a priority should he assume office. “I will make sure it becomes a priority area in my commitment to create any value at the Ministry,” he said. 

Commitment to Labor Reforms

The vetting session also saw committee members commending Pelpuo for his leadership and dedication. Some urged him to ensure progressive labour reforms and advocate for workers’ rights if confirmed as minister.

Pelpuo assured the committee of his commitment to addressing key labour challenges and enhancing the welfare of Ghanaian workers. He reaffirmed his readiness to collaborate with stakeholders to implement effective policies in the sector.

When asked about the possibility of an increment in the salaries of workers of the public sector, he said the situation will be considered for negotiation when he assumes office. He said, “It’s one of the key areas under negotiation right now, and I will be able to respond to it when I get into the ministry.”

The Parliamentary Appointment Committee is expected to finalize its decision on his nomination in the coming days.

A/R: Expand and modernize the Kumasi Abattoir- Regional Chief Butcher to Mahama

Ibrahim Wahab Tikuma, the Ashanti Regional Chief Butcher, is calling on the Mahama- led government to significantly expand and modernize the Kumasi Abattoir to enhance Ghana’s economy, generate employment, and align with the government’s 24-hour economy initiative.

Established in 1957 by Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the Kumasi Abattoir holds historical importance.

Over the years, it has undergone various improvements, including initiatives from former President Jerry John Rawlings. However, Tikuma argues that a comprehensive upgrade is now critical to fully realize its economic benefits.

Speaking to Orange Business News, he pointed out that the meat industry is a vital income source for economic growth, and with the NDC’s recent electoral victory, he is optimistic about the prospects for the abattoir’s development.

Tikuma also addressed the challenges faced by butchers in Ghana, particularly the fluctuating value of the Ghanaian cedi against foreign currencies, which makes importing cattle from neighboring countries like Mali and Burkina Faso increasingly expensive.

He expressed concern over the financial strain this places on butchers, who must convert large amounts of cedis into foreign currency for cattle imports.

To alleviate these challenges, Tikuma proposed that the Ghanaian government engage with Burkina Faso and Mali to negotiate lower cattle prices and subsidies for imports.

He believes such measures would not only ease the financial burden on butchers but also strengthen diplomatic ties and bolster Ghana’s economy.

Tikuma is convinced that a revamped Kumasi Abattoir is vital for the success of the government’s 24-hour economy initiative.

He envisions that an upgraded facility could transform the meat industry into a key player in a continuous economic cycle, creating jobs and generating significant revenue.

The usual flurry of animals at the Kumasi Abattoir has dramatically dwindled.

One is traditionally greeted with large numbers of cattle and other animals including sheep and goats.

However, the most popular Abattoir in Kumasi is currently struggling with low numbers.

Cattle owners blamed the situation on the depreciation of the country’s currency.

Creating thousands of jobs both directly and indirectly, the company is one of the largest in West Africa.

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