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Mahama Promises Full Cabinet Announcement in 14 Days

Caleb Qwofi Right
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President John Dramani Mahama, during his inauguration speech at a National Muslim prayer and thanksgiving service at the National Mosque in Kanda, Accra, announced that his administration is rapidly progressing in the formation of its cabinet. He committed to unveiling the complete list of cabinet members within the next two weeks.

“Government is being formed, ministers will be put in place, other officials will be appointed. And as I said, we will have our full cabinet in 14 days,” Mahama stated, encouraging his supporters to remain patient. He emphasized the importance of having ministers in charge to address any governance issues, advising the public to consult with these ministers for resolutions.

The announcement follows criticism from the Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, who labeled the president’s strategy for appointing ministers as “tot-tot,” implying a slow and piecemeal approach. However, President Mahama’s speech was aimed at reassuring the public and his party members of a structured and forthcoming government setup.

Additionally, the President touched on the behavior of some party supporters, particularly regarding attempts to take over government properties. He cautioned against such actions by reflecting on the mistakes made by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) after their 2016 electoral victory, advocating for discipline and order within his party ranks.

“I know that in 2017, that is what the NPP did. After we lost that election. We must not copy the mistakes that they made. I plead with our supporters, let us do things in an orderly manner,” Mahama urged, signaling a call for self-restraint and organization among his followers.

This announcement is seen as a move to stabilize expectations and governance, amidst the transitional period following the recent elections in Ghana.

Lagos Teacher Remanded After Viral Video of Assault on Pupil

Caleb Qwofi Right
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In a case that has captured national attention, a 45-year-old teacher named Stella Nwadigbo was remanded to custody by an Ogba Magistrate Court in Lagos, Nigeria, after a video surfaced online showing her physically assaulting a three-year-old pupil. The incident, which took place at Christ Mitots School in Ikorodu, involved Nwadigbo repeatedly slapping the young child for struggling to write the number six during a numeracy lesson.

The video, which went viral on Wednesday, sparked immediate outrage across social media platforms, leading to swift action by law enforcement. Nwadigbo was arrested and charged with indecent treatment and assault of a child, under sections 135 and 172 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015. She appeared in court on Thursday, where she pleaded not guilty to the charges but was remanded in the Kirikiri Correctional facility until February 18, 2025, when her case is scheduled for continuation of hearing.

The Lagos State Police Command, through its spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest and subsequent remand, emphasizing the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of residents and visitors alike. “The suspect has since been remanded to Kirikiri Correctional facility till February 18, 2025, when the case comes up for continuation of hearing,” Hundeyin stated.

The school’s management also reacted to the incident by announcing the indefinite suspension of Nwadigbo pending the outcome of the investigation. They have introduced a “confidential whistleblowing system” to encourage the prompt reporting of similar inappropriate behaviors in the future, signaling a move towards stricter oversight of staff conduct.

This case has reignited discussions on child safety in educational settings and the ethical responsibilities of educators. Public opinion has been overwhelmingly critical of the teacher’s actions, with many calling for not only legal accountability but also systemic changes to prevent such incidents.

The pupil, identified as Abayomi Michael, received medical attention following the assault, highlighting the immediate concern for his wellbeing post-incident.

President Mahama Proposes Second Eid al-Fitr Holiday and Affordable Hajj

Caleb Qwofi Right
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President John Mahama has proposed the introduction of a second public holiday for Eid al-Fitr, marking an unprecedented move to celebrate the Muslim festival of breaking the fast. Speaking at a National Muslim prayer and thanksgiving service, the President highlighted his administration’s commitment to religious inclusivity and support for the Muslim community in Ghana.

“The celebration of Eid al-Fitr is a joyous occasion for Muslims across our nation, and I believe that adding an additional day to the festivities will allow for greater celebration and fellowship,” Mahama stated. This proposal would make Ghana one of the few countries to officially recognize two public holidays for Eid al-Fitr, reflecting a policy of religious tolerance and respect for cultural practices.

Alongside this announcement, President Mahama also unveiled plans to make the Hajj pilgrimage more accessible and affordable for Ghanaian Muslims. He spoke of negotiations with Saudi authorities and local stakeholders to reduce costs associated with the pilgrimage, thereby ensuring that more Ghanaians can undertake this significant religious journey.

“Our aim is to remove financial barriers to Hajj, making it a feasible spiritual journey for all who wish to go. We are working on sustainable solutions to lower costs without compromising the sanctity and quality of the experience,” Mahama added. This initiative includes exploring subsidies, partnerships with travel agencies, and potentially government-backed Hajj travel packages.

These announcements have been met with enthusiasm by the Muslim community, who see this as a step towards greater recognition and support of their religious practices. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the economic implications of an additional public holiday, though supporters argue that the cultural and social benefits outweigh these concerns.

The proposal for the second Eid al-Fitr holiday and the Hajj affordability plan are expected to be tabled in the next parliamentary session for discussion and potential legislation. This move is part of President Mahama’s broader agenda to foster unity, inclusiveness, and religious harmony in Ghana.

Bend Soap Company Founder Dwight Johnson Dies in Tree Trimming Accident

Caleb Qwofi Right
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Dwight Johnson was the founder of Bend Soap Company, a business renowned for producing all-natural, toxin-free goat milk soaps, lotions, and other skincare products from their farm in Bend, Oregon. Johnson, along with his wife Marilee and their ten children, operated this family-centric enterprise, which began as a means to alleviate their son’s eczema and grew into a successful business with international sales.

Johnson’s journey into soap-making was driven by his commitment to natural health solutions. After noticing the beneficial effects of goat milk soap on his son’s skin condition, he expanded the operation, leveraging his background in manufacturing from his family’s glass-decorating company and previous ventures in furniture making. His approach combined traditional methods with a passion for health and nutrition, reflecting his earlier career with a global nutrition company.

Tragically, Dwight Johnson passed away in a tree trimming accident on January 9, 2025. The accident occurred while he was working on a project with his sons, reflecting his hands-on approach to both life and business. His sudden death was reported widely, with condolences and tributes shared across various platforms, acknowledging his significant impact on both his family and the broader community through his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to natural, health-focused products.

Prominent Brooklyn Real Estate Investor Mendy Steiner Found Dead in NYC Hotel

Caleb Qwofi Right
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New York, Mendel ‘Mendy’ Steiner, a 32-year-old Hasidic real estate investor and philanthropist from Brooklyn, was discovered deceased in a room at the luxurious Aman New York hotel on West 57th Street. Authorities believe the cause of death to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The incident came to light on Thursday, January 8th, when emergency services responded to a call at approximately 1:45 p.m. Steiner was found with a fatal head wound and was pronounced dead at the scene by EMS.

A spokesperson for the Aman Hotel stated, “This afternoon, emergency services were called and responded to an incident in a room involving a guest. We are fully cooperating with emergency responders and will not comment further.” The hotel, known for its opulence, sits at the intersection of Fifth Avenue, a testament to the high-profile nature of Steiner’s life.

While the police have not officially named the deceased, social media and community sources have identified him as Mendy Steiner. An X post from

@THEREALJEW613 read, “Mendy Steiner, a Hasidic real estate investor from New York, was found dead in a New York hotel room…His death is currently under investigation.”

Steiner was widely respected not only for his real estate investments but also for his significant contributions to various Jewish institutions and causes. His philanthropy touched many lives, supporting education, community services, and special initiatives.

Following his death, a funeral service, or Levaye, was held Thursday night at Shomre Hadas. His burial, or Kevurah, was scheduled for Friday night at Har Shulem in Airmont. Steiner leaves behind his wife, Dini Steiner.

The circumstances surrounding his death are still under investigation, and while the community mourns, details about his personal wealth remain undisclosed. This tragic event has sparked discussions on mental health and the pressures faced by even the most successful individuals in high-stakes environments like New York’s real estate market.

Canton Academy Mourns Loss of 8th Grader Jasper Branning, Son of Pastor John Branning

Caleb Qwofi Right
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Jasper Branning, an eighth-grade student at Canton Academy in Madison, Mississippi, and the son of Pastor John Branning, has tragically passed away. Jasper was known for his involvement in school activities, particularly football, where he was remembered for his speed and kindness. His death was announced by his school community, which expressed deep sorrow and rallied around the Branning family in their time of grief.

Jasper’s father, John Branning, is a well-known figure in the community, having served as a military member and now as a revival preacher. The community has come together, with posts on X and tributes indicating that Jasper was a beloved part of Canton Academy, often remembered for his humorous and kind nature.

A memorial service was organized by the school, where students participated in a “silly sock day” to honor Jasper, who was known for his unconventional choice of socks. This event was meant to bring some joy amidst the mourning, reflecting Jasper’s character.

The exact circumstances of his passing have not been detailed in public reports, but the community is focused on supporting each other and the Branning family during this difficult period. Jasper’s impact on his peers and the broader school community will be long remembered, as noted in various tributes and posts on social media and local news outlets.

Ghana Faces Energy Crisis: Bright Simons Clash with Jinapor Over Fuel Stock Claims

Caleb Qwofi Right
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In a recent political exchange that has intensified the focus on Ghana’s energy sector, Bright Simons, a noted Ghanaian social innovator and researcher, has publicly criticized John Jinapor, a former Energy Minister and current Member of Parliament for Yapei-Kusawgu, over claims regarding the country’s fuel reserves.

Jinapor, who served as the Co-chair of the Akufo-Addo-Mahama transition team’s sub-committee on Energy and Natural Resources, recently warned of an impending power crisis, asserting that Ghana has only five hours’ worth of fuel stock for power generation. His declaration has stirred significant concern about the potential return to ‘dumsor’, the local term for the erratic power outages that plagued the country in the past.

Reacting to Jinapor’s statement, Bright Simons, vice-president at IMANI Centre for Policy and Education, took to social media to challenge the claim, essentially ‘firing’ back at Jinapor’s assertions. Simons, known for his rigorous policy analysis, argued that the situation might not be as dire as portrayed, suggesting that the outgoing administration had left fuel stocks in place, and criticized the narrative as potentially misleading or politically motivated.

The controversy has sparked a broader discussion about the state of Ghana’s energy sector, with various stakeholders weighing in. Herbert Krapa, the former Energy Minister under the Akufo-Addo administration, also refuted Jinapor’s claims, arguing that the previous government had indeed secured light crude oil and heavy fuel oil stocks before leaving office. Krapa emphasized that any potential power crisis shouldn’t be blamed on fuel shortages but rather on systemic inefficiencies or mismanagement in the transition phase.

On the other hand, Jinapor’s assertions are backed by reports from the Institute for Energy Security (IES), which supports the narrative of a looming power crisis due to systemic inefficiencies and poor planning by the previous government. The IES has called on the new administration led by President John Dramani Mahama to take immediate action to prevent power outages.

The dispute comes at a time when Ghana is grappling with several energy sector challenges, including debt issues, technical inefficiencies, and the need for substantial investments in infrastructure to prevent future crises. The country’s energy mix, predominantly reliant on hydro and thermal sources with minimal renewable contribution, adds another layer of complexity to the situation.

This political spat not only highlights the contentious nature of energy politics in Ghana but also underscores the broader implications for the nation’s economy, which is striving to maintain power stability to support both domestic needs and attract foreign investment.

As Ghana navigates through this potential energy crisis, the political discourse continues to evolve, with public opinion split between those advocating for accountability from the previous administration and others who see the current warnings as part of political maneuvering in the post-election period.

The debate over Ghana’s fuel stock and the capability of its new leadership to manage the energy sector efficiently remains a critical issue, reflecting on both the immediate economic stability and the long-term energy policy direction of the country.

WHO Declares New COVID-19 Outbreak in China a Global Health Emergency

Caleb Qwofi Right
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Geneva, Switzerland The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared the latest resurgence of COVID-19 in China as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), spotlighting the risks to nations with less robust healthcare infrastructures.

In a recent press briefing, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus explained that this declaration is not an indication of mistrust in China’s management of the outbreak. Instead, it’s a strategic move to prevent the virus from spreading further globally.

“Our greatest concern is the potential for the virus to spread to countries with weaker health systems,” Dr. Tedros emphasized. “This declaration is not a vote of no confidence in China. WHO remains confident in China’s ability to manage the outbreak.”

The recommendation for this emergency status came from WHO’s emergency committee, with the decision being almost unanimous under the leadership of Didier Houssin. This marks the sixth time the PHEIC label has been applied since its introduction 15 years ago, triggering a coordinated international response aimed at accelerating the development of treatments and vaccines, strengthening health systems, and combating misinformation.

This declaration by WHO underscores the urgency for global preparedness and enhanced public health measures to contain the virus’s spread. Countries around the world are now urged to ramp up surveillance and take proactive steps to protect their populations.

Summer Hunter, Page High School Teacher from Greensboro, NC, Passes Away

Caleb Qwofi Right
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Greensboro, NC – January 8, 2025 – The community of Greensboro is grieving the unexpected death of Summer Hunter, a beloved teacher at Page High School, who passed away on January 6, 2025. Her departure has left a profound impact on the students, staff, and residents who knew her for her dedication and compassion.

Summer Hunter was not just an educator but a pivotal figure in the lives of many at Page High School. With a career that was driven by passion and love for teaching, she was known for her innovative methods and her ability to connect with her students on a personal level. She transformed her classroom into a space where learning was not just about absorbing information but about igniting curiosity, creativity, and a deep-seated love for education.

Her students remember her as much more than a teacher; she was a mentor who provided support beyond the academic realm. Summer was known for her willingness to stay after class for extra help, her presence at students’ extracurricular events, and her role as a compassionate listener. Her belief in the potential of every student was unwavering, and she worked tirelessly to ensure they reached their aspirations.

Among her peers at Page High School, Summer was a beacon of positivity and support. Her collaborative nature and enthusiasm for education were infectious, making her an invaluable member of the school’s faculty. She was instrumental in creating a nurturing environment, not only for students but for fellow educators as well.

Summer’s influence extended beyond the school walls into the Greensboro community where she actively participated in various initiatives and volunteer work. Her commitment to making a positive impact was evident in her involvement in local outreach programs, showcasing her as a true community advocate.

The loss of Summer Hunter has resonated deeply, with her family expressing immense gratitude for the community’s support during this trying period. They celebrate her life and the indelible mark she left on everyone she encountered. Details regarding a memorial service to honor Summer’s life and contributions are forthcoming.

In her memory, Summer Hunter stands as a testament to the power of a compassionate educator. Her legacy will continue to motivate and inspire, encouraging all to live with the same kindness, dedication, and love for learning that she exemplified.

Twum Boafo Questions Akufo-Addo’s Peace Gesture as Mahama Takes Office After Landslide Victory

Caleb Qwofi Right
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Kwadwo Twum Boafo, former Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Authority and a prominent member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has openly criticized the peace gesture extended by immediate-past President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to the newly inaugurated President John Dramani Mahama.

During a panel discussion on Metro TV prior to Mahama’s swearing-in, Twum Boafo questioned the sincerity of Akufo-Addo’s olive branch, suggesting it lacked both honesty and originality. He cited his own experiences of what he described as state-sponsored harassment and persecution under the previous administration as reasons for his skepticism.

“Suddenly, President Akufo-Addo says let’s forgive each other. When did he discover brotherhood? When he flat-out terrorized some of us appointees of President Mahama, including President Mahama himself. They threw out his (John Mahama) things. People were sent to turf out a former president out of his residents,” Twum Boafo remarked, highlighting the alleged mistreatment of Mahama by elements associated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

He argued that Akufo-Addo’s conciliatory move was only prompted by the NPP’s significant defeat in the 2024 elections, implying that without this electoral setback, no such offer would have been made. “After terrorizing us, he has now discovered brotherhood. It was the verdict of Ghanaians that made him discover brotherhood,” he added.

John Dramani Mahama was sworn in as President of Ghana at Black Star Square in Accra, following his landslide victory in the December 7, 2024, elections. The ceremony was attended by international dignitaries, including 21 Heads of State, marking a significant moment in Ghana’s political landscape.

Mahama, who previously served as President from 2012 to 2017 after the death of President John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills, has now made history by becoming the first non-consecutive president of the Fourth Republic. He defeated his closest contender, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who garnered 41.61% of the votes.

The inauguration also saw Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang sworn in as Vice President, making her the first woman to hold this office in Ghana, adding another layer of historical significance to Mahama’s return to power.

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