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‘Agyapadie’ is a fabricated document by my political opponents – Akufo-Addo
In a compelling address today at the Ghana Report Summit, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo shed light on the fabricated narratives that have been used to undermine his political career, focusing on the “Agyapadie” document, which first surfaced in the run-up to the 2020 elecrions.
The Summit, themed “Dealing with Misinformation and Disinformation – Election 2024,” highlighted the dangers of false information in the democratic process.
The Agyapadie document alleges a grand scheme by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to annex state assets. According to President Akufo-Addo, this fabricated document has been circulated by opposition operatives as evidence of the NPP’s supposed plans.
“This baseless accusation is yet another example of the malicious tactics used to undermine my credibility and integrity,” the President stated.
President Akufo-Addo’s political career has been fraught with similar false accusations, dating back to the 2008 presidential election. During that campaign, baseless allegations of drug trafficking were spread to tarnish his image. Rumors about his health were also circulated to cast doubt on his ability to serve as President. Opponents accused then-President John Kufuor of selling all of Ghana’s gold reserves, a claim that was patently false.
The 2012 election cycle saw a continuation of these tactics, with false reports of Akufo-Addo’s alleged arrest in London for drug possession making headlines. Fabricated quotes designed to stir ethnic tensions were also disseminated, aiming to divide the electorate. In 2016, opponents stooped to a new low, alleging that Akufo-Addo had killed his late wife, a claim that was not only false but deeply offensive.
“As the 2024 General Elections approach, the Agyapadie document is the latest in a series of lies aimed at discrediting President Akufo-Addo and his party. This fictitious narrative, like the ones before it, highlights the importance of discerning truth from falsehood and remaining vigilant against the dangers of misinformation and disinformation,” he said.
President Akufo-Addo emphasized that combating misinformation and disinformation requires a multi-faceted approach. Strengthening regulatory frameworks to hold individuals and organizations accountable for spreading false information is crucial.
He added that collaborations with technology companies are essential to develop mechanisms for monitoring and curbing the spread of false information on digital platforms.Public awareness campaigns are also vital.
“Educating citizens about the dangers of misinformation and disinformation and promoting media literacy can empower voters to make informed decisions. Supporting fact-checking organizations to verify information and debunk false claims is another important strategy,” he said.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo stressed the need for all political actors to commit to truthfulness and transparency in their campaign,” The spread of false information for political gain undermines the democratic process and erodes public trust. Political parties and candidates must engage in constructive dialogue, presenting their ideas and policies to the electorate in a truthful and respectful manner.”
According to him, the Civil society organizations play an invaluable role in promoting transparency, accountability, and media literacy.
He added that their advocacy efforts are essential in curbing misinformation and disinformation. The public also has a crucial role to play by verifying information before sharing it and relying on reputable news sources.
“The Agyapadie scandal serves as a stark reminder of the lengths to which some will go to undermine political opponents. As Ghana prepares for the 2024 General Elections, it is imperative to address these challenges head-on. By working together – government, media, civil society, and the public – Ghana can create an environment where truth prevails, and its democracy thrives,” he concluded.
Muslims across the country celebrated this year’s Eid-ul-Adha in a colourful and spiritually uplifting atmosphere under the theme, “A Season of Sacrifice, Solidarity and Spiritual Renewal.”
The celebration brought together Muslims from diverse backgrounds in a remarkable display of faith, unity and cultural heritage.
The occasion was marked by special Eid prayers at various designated grounds, the slaughtering of rams in homes for sharing among family members, friends and the less privileged, as well as musical concerts and recreational activities including horse riding.
Leading the celebration was the Chief Imam, Dr Sheikh Osman Sharubutu.
While the national celebration was held at the Black Star Square where President John Dramani Mahama was the Special Guest of Honour, similar gatherings took place at different centres across the capital and other regions of the country.
A visit by The Spectator to some celebration grounds revealed Muslims, both young and old, elegantly dressed in colourful jalabiya and other Islamic attire, reflecting the rich culture and traditions of the Muslim community.
The celebration also portrayed the spirit of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence in the country, as a number of Christians joined their Muslim counterparts to mark the occasion.
Muslim leaders and government officials used the opportunity to call on the faithful to uphold the teachings of the Holy Quran, renew their spiritual commitment and refrain from acts capable of undermining the peace, unity and security of the nation.
They further urged Ghanaians to continue to live in harmony and support one another for national development.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
Dear Obaa Yaa,
During Eid-ul- Adha celebration, I decided to spend the weekend at my boyfriend’s place since we were planning towards our marriage.
To my surprise, what keeps me wide awake, restless and frustrated every single time is that he snores loudly like a generator running on full power, and I genuinely cannot get any rest
At a point, I thought it was just a normal thing, but I have realised it is something he does with ease and doesn’t see anything wrong with it.
When he steps out in the morning, I try to get enough sleep because I may not sleep in the evening.
The most annoying thing is that, he always wants to cuddle me. These two things are a no for me and a red flag.
We are about to get married, what should I do?
Enam, Keta.
Dear Enam,
The snoring and constant cuddling are frustrating, but you don’t have to choose between sleep and closeness.
Start with the snoring: check if it’s worse when he sleeps on his back, cut out alcohol before bed, try nasal strips or a humidifier, and see a doctor if he pauses while breathing.
For quick relief, foam earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones help a lot.
Separate blankets, a bigger bed, or sleeping apart on some nights often makes couples rest well and feel closer overall.
Bring this up before the wedding .Tell him you want to wake up next to him for years to come, but sleep deprivation makes you both miserable.
Test earplugs and side-sleeping this weekend, and if it’s still unbearable, bring in a doctor. Good sleep matters more for your marriage than staying glued together all night.
