April 2025 - Page 3 of 13 - thesavannaonline

Residents in the Upper East Region are encouraged to report any exorbitant rent requests promptly.

Adam Yaminu Kasim, the Regional Manager of the Rent Control Department in Upper East, mentions a critical issue. Tenants and landlords often face excessive advanced payments required by landlords. This has caused difficulties for many tenants. They cannot afford such large upfront costs. These costs often do not correspond with the quality or worth of the rented properties. Unfortunately, this mismatch between rental fees and property conditions is a persistent concern in the region and nationwide.

One of the most prevalent concerns for tenants and landlords is rental payments. Landlords may often require a significant upfront payment, which can prove to be a major obstacle for many tenants.

During a recent interview on A1 Radio in Bolgatanga, monitored by www.thesavannaonline.com, he addressed the increasing tensions and anxieties surrounding rent fees. He also highlighted the issue of certain landlords disregarding rent regulations.

Mr Kasim emphasized the importance of involving the Rent Control Department early in the rental process. He encouraged tenants to report any suspected irregularities or exploitative practices. This is particularly important when faced with exceptionally high rent demands. However, he acknowledged that numerous tenants hesitate to contact the department.

“Mostly, what we urge tenants to do is, at least sometimes, when you go to a place and inspect it, and the figure is a bit outrageous or too high, you can draw Rent Control’s attention.”…He narrated.

The Rent Control Act governs rental practices in Ghana. Landlords must register their properties before making them available to the public. This process enables the department to determine and approve a reasonable rental rate. Unfortunately, some landlords ignore this obligation and only approach the department when conflicts arise.

“As a landlord or landlady, under the act we are currently operating with—Act 220—even before you put up the premises, once you have the intention of renting it, you have to come and register it with Rent Control. That way, Rent Control is empowered to move in after construction is completed to carry out the assessment and issue a certificate for the appropriate rent.”He further stated.

In addition, Mr. Kasim emphasized the purpose of the Rent Control Department, which is to assist tenants and landlords. The department acts as a neutral entity, providing guidance and settling rental conflicts. However, it has faced challenges in fulfilling its duties due to limited resources. Only five or six officers are responsible for the entire region. As a result, the department has struggled to educate the public and promptly address concerns adequately. Education is a key aspect of the mandate of the outfit. Yet, limited resources prevent Rent Control from fully fulfilling it.

The regional manager emphasized the importance of seeking help from the Rent Control Department early on in any rental situation. It is better to tackle concerns promptly rather than waiting for disputes to worsen.

He encouraged individuals not to hesitate in seeking assistance. The Rent Control team is available to offer guidance whenever needed.

Mr Kasim emphasized that the landlord must adhere to legal procedures when evicting tenants.

“There are laws guiding how a tenant should be evicted. A landlord or landlady cannot just get up and evict you…I encourage all tenants who think they have issues with their landlords to be bold and come forward,” he added.

The Progressive Peoples Party (PPP) Statement on the Suspension of the Chief Justice

The Progressive Peoples Party (PPP)has issued a press statement on the suspension of the Chief Justice. Released this evening, the PPP sort validate the action so far. Find the full statement below.

28th April, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Progressive Peoples Party (PPP) Statement on the Suspension of the Chief Justice
Accra, April 28, 2025 – The Progressive Peoples Party (PPP) has been following with keen interest the recent suspension of the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana. We wish to reiterate our firm belief that the suspension, as executed by the President, was lawful and in full compliance with the due process of law as enshrined in our 1992 Constitution.

Due process necessitates adherence to established principles of procedure, respect for the rule of law, and the safeguarding of an individual’s rights. In this instance, it is our understanding that the President acted on the advice of the Council of State in suspending the Chief Justice. This action followed a preliminary determination of a prima facie case against the Chief Justice, made by the President in consultation with the same Council of State.

Furthermore, we acknowledge that the Chief Justice was afforded the opportunity to respond to the specific allegations outlined in the petitions presented. This process, in our view, unequivocally demonstrates the President’s commitment to adhering to laid down procedures, upholding the rule of law, and respecting fundamental human rights.
The Constitution remains the supreme law of our land, applicable to all persons and in all circumstances. Therefore, the PPP maintains its position that no constitutional provisions have been breached by the President in the matter of the current Chief Justice. We call upon all parties to remain calm and allow the constitutional processes to proceed without hindrance.

We find it pertinent to express our concern regarding the stance taken by the Ghana Bar Association (GBA). As an association of learned lawyers, we had hoped the GBA would affirm the adherence to due process in this matter. Instead, their call for a “suspension of the CJ’s suspension” is perplexing and could be interpreted as an attempt to suspend due process itself, potentially setting aside portions of our Constitution.

Such calls from the GBA and other entities are not only a threat to our democratic principles but also suggest a selective and subjective application of the law, contingent on the individuals involved. While we respect the democratic right of individuals and groups to defend the Chief Justice and advocate for her reinstatement, we must also underscore the fundamental principle of accountability within a democracy.

The principle of strict separation of powers, crucial for preventing interference between the arms of government, must not preclude the opportunity for citizens to hold the heads of these institutions accountable. It is in this spirit that the Constitution provides clear avenues for holding not just the Chief Justice, but also the President and the Speaker of Parliament, accountable.

For clarity, our Constitution lays out explicit procedures for the removal of the President, the Speaker of Parliament, the Chief Justice, Ministers of State, Members of Parliament, and other public officeholders. In the specific case of the Chief Justice, Article 146 clearly outlines the procedure to be followed, and it is our assessment that these provisions have been fully respected by the President in the current situation.

The privileges, conditions of service, powers, and the honor bestowed upon the heads of the three arms of state necessitate that they are held to the highest standards of accountability.

We recall the events of 2018 concerning the removal of members of the Electoral Commission, including its Chairperson. The PPP’s position at the time was clear: if these individuals had not engaged in acts of stated misbehavior and incompetence, there would be no basis for their removal. Ultimately, the Committee of Inquiry found procurement violations constituting stated misbehavior, leading to the Chairperson’s removal, a process later validated by the Supreme Court.

Therefore, in our defense of the Chief Justice, we must not lose sight of the essential requirements of accountability, due process, the rule of law, and absolute compliance with constitutional provisions.

Signed,
Nana Ofori Owusu
Chairman
Progressive Peoples Party

Mahama has introduced the Adwumawura Programme, which aims to generate business opportunities for the youth.

President John Dramani Mahama has launched an initiative that aims to provide young individuals with the means to establish their businesses.

Named the Adwumawura Programme, it was inaugurated in Kumasi on Monday, [April 28, 2025] by President Mahama.

During his address at the ceremony in Kumasi, President Mahama emphasized the significance of the initiative in providing viable prospects for young Ghanaians to turn their ideas into lasting businesses.

The goal is to establish a minimum of 10,000 businesses owned by Ghanaian youth annually for the next four years.

Enhancing women’s capabilities through the development of skills.

According to him, the Adwumawura Programme will provide a range of resources to support business growth. These include training for development, opportunities for funding, mentorship, market assistance, and ongoing advisory services. The programme is open to both emerging ventures and established small businesses, with the option to apply through an online platform.

President Mahama addressed a crowd of government officials, development partners, traditional authorities and young entrepreneurs, reiterating our aim to establish a minimum of 10,000 youth-owned businesses in Ghana annually for the next four years.

According to Mr. Mahama, the Adwumawura Programme has been fully financed and received the required allocation from the Ministry of Finance under the 2025 national budget.

He highlighted that the current program is distinct from past youth initiatives that were introduced with much excitement but ultimately lacked sufficient funding.

NEIP, under the newly established Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, will be in charge of carrying out the Adwumawura initiative.

According to Mr Mahama, the initiative aims to be all-encompassing, driven by the youth, and inclusive of individuals from diverse backgrounds in Ghana, regardless of their educational background.

According to him, numerous major corporations we witness today initially began as modest enterprises.

Proper support can empower young Ghanaians to establish businesses that not only enhance their own lives but also bolster our national economy.

The application process for the initial group of recipients has officially begun, overseen by an independent selection committee.

Over 50,000 teachers receive promotions

Up to 50,458 teachers out of a total of 54,227 teachers who were successful in last year’s aptitude test have been promoted, the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has confirmed.

In addition, GNAT said 1,417 out of 1,579 teachers removed from the payroll have also had their salaries reactivated, with only the remaining 162 yet to be impacted.

“We can confirm that out of the 54,227 teachers who were successful in the 2024 aptitude test for promotion, 50,458 have been placed on their correct grades in April 2025.

The outstanding, together with the backlog of the 2023 batch, to be placed in May 2025,” a letter signed by the General Secretary of GNAT, Thomas Musah, to members of the association said.

It said the development followed a meeting with the Ghana Education Service (GES) on Friday, April 25, 2025.

On lower rank promotions, it said as of last Friday, the GES had informed the unions that all 16 regions had submitted the data, and the placement would be effected in May 2025.

Regarding the upgrading relative to returnees from further studies, the statement indicated that “a significant number of teachers in this category had not been upgraded, since 2023”.

Agreement
The communication said it had been agreed that all such teachers would be upgraded by the end of May 2025.

“The Director-General of Ghana Education Service (GES) has promised to write to the Regional Directors to ensure that the upgrading is done without fail,” it said.

A stakeholders meeting, it said, would be held in May 2025, to fix dates for the next aptitude test for promotion.

It said all the outstanding issues in the Collective Agreement for GES staff would be addressed next month, prominent among them being the salary disparities on the Single Spine Pay Structure.

The teacher union consequently expressed gratitude to President John Mahama for the 20 per cent allowance for teachers in deprived areas.

Gratitude
“The Teacher Unions express our gratitude to His Excellency the President of the Republic for his pronouncement on its payment, following the understanding that work on it is to be done, commencing May 2025,” the statement said.

With regard to the decoupling of Director 2 and Director 1, it said: “We again express our gratitude to His Excellency for the decoupling of Director 2 and subsequently Director 1 from being coterminous with political districts and regions, thus paving the way for the promotion of Deputy Directors to Director 2, and subsequently Director 1.

“It’s welcome news, and we hope to work with the relevant stakeholders to bring it to fruition,” it said.

The statement further commended the President for the supply of sanitary pads to female learners, and expressed the hope that it would attain the envisaged outcomes.

“We wish to assure our members that the unions, together with the relevant parties, are working tirelessly to conclude discussions on all other issues, and we shall not fail you,” the statement said.

GNAT reaction
Mr Musah later told the Daily Graphic that the development was a breakthrough between the government and teachers.

“We would like to express our profound gratitude to the President, at least, for his timely intervention,” he said.

He said since the issues came up, the GES had been very forthcoming, and expressed the hope that by next month, “we will be able to resolve the issue”.

Background
GNAT had given the government up to April 30, 2025, to address all issues affecting teachers.

The issues included the non-implementation of the Scheme of Service for GES staff and the implementation of the Human Resource Management Information System, which GNAT said had caused some challenges to teachers, including delays in their salaries and promotion.

The demands were part of the directives given by the National Labour Commission after meeting three teacher unions and their employers, represented by ministries and the GES, after the unions embarked on strike on March 20 last year.

At the time, the commission communicated that “having heard the disputes and having met the parties jointly and in separate (caucus) sessions, made some findings and thereby gave some directives, among which was that since the GES had no Scheme of Service for the GES Staff, and to ensure that future appointments do not encounter such challenges, the GES must provide its staff with a Scheme of Service”.

Publishers association launches 22nd book fair in Tamale

The Ghana Publishers Association (GPA) has launched the 22nd edition of the Ghana International Book Fair (GIBF), which is set to take place from August 7 to 10, 2025 in Accra.

Launched on the theme: “Inclusive Publishing, Celebrating Accessible Literature,” the fair aims to bring together local and international publishers, authors and stakeholders to promote reading culture and the growth of the publishing industry in Ghana.

The launch, which took place in Tamale last Wednesday, also served as the official opening ceremony for the Tamale Regional Book Fair and marked the celebration of UNESCO World Book and Copyright Day.

Organised in partnership with Twellium Industrial Company Limited, UNESCO, the Ghana Tourism Authority, and the Ghana Library Authority, the four-day event sought to foster collaboration among key players in the literary sector.

It also created a platform for authors to showcase their work, for publishers to connect with readers, and for stakeholders to explore new literary content.

Inclusive publishing
At the launch, the Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways, Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini, emphasised the transformative power of inclusive publishing.

“Inclusive publishing will dismantle barriers and ensure no one is left out of the transformative power of literature.”

“It is not only about retrofitting existing books, but designing literature from the outset in multiple accessible formats,” he said.

He highlighted the role of innovation, including AI-driven audiobooks and adaptive e-readers, in expanding access to literature.

However, he stated that less than 10 per cent of published works globally were fully accessible and called for collective efforts from publishers and policymakers to address this gap.

Linguistic diversity
Representing the Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, the Head of the Education Section of UNESCO Ghana, Prosper Kwasi Nyavor, stressed the importance of linguistic diversity in publishing.
He said many communities lacked adequate resources in their native languages, posing a threat to literacy, education and cultural continuity.

“New technologies offer opportunities to widen access, but the digital divide continues to deepen inequalities in the global creative economy,” Mr Nyavor added.

He indicated that UNESCO had over the years supported several projects under its International Fund for Cultural Diversity to boost the book sector and protect copyright.

Declining reading culture
The Treasurer of the Ghana Publishers Association, Kwabena Agyapong, lamented the declining culture of reading and the limited investment in general books outside of textbooks.

He stressed that the absence of a national book development and reading policy had stunted the industry’s growth.

“Inadequate library resources and lack of local content continue to hinder public libraries.

The last major procurement of reading materials for basic schools, dates back to the year 2000,” he stated.

He further criticised the imposition of taxes on imported books, which he said had worsened the situation.

Mr Agyapong, therefore, called on the government to ease taxes on textbooks and prioritise the development of a national book and reading policy to promote literacy and cultural preservation.

The Bawku conflict is a deep-seated issue that requires immediate attention: Neenyi Ghartey

UEW Chancellor Neenyi Ghartey VII has urged the government and other stakeholders involved in the Bawku conflict to prioritize their efforts towards achieving long-term peace.

He called upon the government and relevant agencies to intensify efforts, utilizing diplomatic, developmental, and security-based strategies, in order to achieve lasting peace in the area.

The matter at hand is not limited to Bawku. It is a responsibility that falls on the nation as a whole.

Neeyi Ghartey made a fervent plea for us not to view this as a remote conflict but rather as a wound that affects our entire nation and demands our joint efforts for healing.

During the second gathering of UEW’s 29th Congregation this past weekend, Neenyi Ghartey emphasized the need for prompt action to resolve the conflict and bring back harmony to the region while also advancing its growth.

Neeyi Ghartey’s call is prompted by the ongoing turmoil in the area, which has caused significant setbacks for education, health care and other economic factors.

The GNAT and Pre-tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana have both highlighted the impact of the volatile conditions in Bawku on education in the region.

According to GNAT’s General Secretary, Thomas Musah, there are currently 2,070 employees in the enclave.

Due to the current circumstances, a nearby GNAT conference that was scheduled to take place last month had to be suspended.

Additionally, the district conference scheduled for next month has also been postponed.

According to the President of the Pre-tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana, King Awudu Ali, Bawku has been experiencing significant disruptions to academic activities for quite some time now.

According to him, numerous teachers have requested a transfer from Bawku, and there are also no takers for new teaching positions in the area.

He emphasized that the loss of lives and property does not benefit ordinary citizens, particularly those in Bawku.

According to Neenyi Ghartey, or Daniel Kobena Bortse Ghartey, in his personal life, Bawku is renowned for its vibrant culture and resilient people who have always been known for their hardworking nature. However, the ongoing conflict has had negative impacts on the community.

“Families are being torn apart, children cannot go to school, and livelihoods are crumbling under the weight of persistent violence. We cannot educate a nation while part of it burns. We cannot and must not allow this to continue,” he stated.

Neenyi Ghartey urged the residents of Bawku to maintain peace.

“Let peace reign. Let the guns go silent. Let peace be loud in Bawku. Let us silence the guns and raise the voices of reason, unity, and brotherhood. Let us remember that conflict only brings suffering, loss, and destruction, not only to lives and property but to the future dreams of our young ones,” he emphasized.

He specifically urged the young people in Bawku and its surroundings to refrain from being manipulated into causing harm but instead to emerge as advocates for peace and progress. Additionally, he appealed to the older generation and influential members of the community to utilize their influence in promoting unity rather than division.

Although the congregation ceremony was filled with joy, it would be remiss to ignore the pain and uncertainty that currently plague the people of Bawku due to its volatile state.

Neenyi Ghartey, who serves as both the Paramount Chief of the Effutu Traditional Area and an advocate for peace, emphasized that Bawku and Ghana must prioritize peace in order to promote national unity and progress. He urged all members of society, including intellectuals and decision-makers, to actively promote peace throughout the country, emphasizing that peace is not a sign of weakness but rather a display of strength, integrity, and foresight.

According to him, a peaceful Ghana serves as the cornerstone for a thriving Ghana.

The traditional leader emphasized the importance of every Ghanaian child growing up in a peaceful environment, regardless of their location. They expressed hope for peace to be restored in Bawku and for healing to reach every household, ultimately leading to a strong and united Ghana that provides opportunities for all children.

During the commencement ceremony, a total of 6,969 students were awarded degrees and diplomas. This included 2,969 male graduates and 4,000 female graduates.

The group consisted of 503 individuals pursuing postgraduate studies, 38 individuals working towards a doctoral degree, 5,958 individuals with a first degree, and 308 diplomates.

In total, 220 graduates achieved a first-class degree, with 1,427 earning a second-class upper division and 2,188 receiving a second-class lower division. Within this group, 3,620 females obtained their first degree.

Regarding educational progress, Neenyi Ghartey praised President John Mahama for his commitment to fostering inclusive education and his aspiration for lasting and fair education, stating that it aligned with the university’s mission of unlocking the capabilities of each student.

He encouraged the graduating class to strive for excellence and put in diligent effort, emphasizing their potential to make a positive impact in any field they enter. The university has faith in their ability to excel based on the knowledge and skills they have gained.

The Vice-Chancellor of UEW, Professor Stephen Jobson Mitchual, expressed gratitude to the government for its policies promoting access and equity, digital transformation, and capacity-building. He acknowledged that these efforts have been beneficial in equipping institutions like UEW to produce competent graduates.

According to Prof. Mitchual, the university’s investment in digital accessibility and internet connectivity has resulted in improved efficiency for teaching, learning, and examinations.

Today marks the return of Otumfuo’s mediation efforts in resolving the Bawku conflict.

Today, on Monday, April 28, 2025, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, will continue his mediation efforts to resolve the ongoing Bawku conflict between the two opposing factions.

According to a press release dated April 15, 2025, the Asantehene has officially declared that mediation talks will be held at his palace in Kumasi from April 28 to May 1 in order to address the Bawku conflicts.

President John Mahama has assured that the Asantehene will lead the ongoing peace process as part of broader national efforts to restore calm in the troubled region.

Many Ghanaians, particularly the vulnerable residents of Bawku and its neighboring areas, are placing their hopes on the Asantehene’s mediation efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict. Women and children, who this turmoil has significantly impacted, are especially hopeful that a lasting solution will be achieved through this process.

The Energy Minister, John Abdulai Jinapor has refuted claims of accusing Tamale residents of being power thieves.

On this day, the 28th of April, Minister John Abdulai Jinapor of Energy and Green Transition rejected claims spreading on social media about his supposed statement labeling 70% of Tamale residents as electricity thieves.

Mr Jinapor has released a press statement this morning, denouncing the reports as “entirely false, contrived and baseless,” He has appealed to the public to pay no attention to these allegations.

He underscored that the audio-visual recordings would prove that he never called the people of Tamale power thieves during his visit.

Mr Jinapor further elaborated on his remarks, stating that he had raised apprehension over the significant ATC&C losses in the NEDCo operational area.

The losses were pointed out as the highest in the area, and they have played a significant role in causing frequent power outages.

“For the avoidance of doubt, technical and collection losses have nothing to do with power theft but rather signify the inefficiencies of the utility company,” he stated.

The Minister emphasized the necessity for immediate changes in the power sector in Tamale, stressing the importance of both substantial investments and operational efficiency to address the current difficulties.

According to him, it is imperative to make enhancements in revenue collection and technical operations in order to ensure a dependable, steady and uninterrupted electricity supply for the residents of Tamale.

Mr Jinapor’s proposed actions demonstrate a larger mission to improve energy distribution throughout the Northern regions.

As he wrapped up his statement, Mr Jinapor reiterated his profound admiration and dedication to the people of Tamale, referring to them as his fellow community members.

“Let me finally assure the chiefs, elders and people of Tamale of my utmost respect and reverence to them and will never use derogatory words to describe my kinsmen,” he said.

His forceful response seems to prioritize maintaining the trust of the community while tackling the technical obstacles in the local energy distribution system.