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ORAL operation: I receive threats daily – Okudzeto Ablakwa
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the chairman of the new government’s Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL), has revealed that he receives daily threats from opponents of the operation.
The lawmaker, who has been at the forefront of the fight against corruption, told Blessed Sogah on Joy News’ PM Express on Monday, January 13, that “threats have become a daily feature, but we have tough skin and we know the Good Lord will protect us.”
He added, “I have been subjected to a lot of propaganda, fake news, and people just trying to demonise me.” Despite the threats, he said, “We remain unaffected; we are resolute and focused.”
Mr Ablakwa reaffirmed the commitment of the committee to tackling corruption and recovering stolen state assets from the previous government
ORAL is an initiative by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government aimed at identifying, investigating, and recovering state assets believed to have been stolen by members of the former Akufo-Addo administration. Allegations include the theft of lands, revenues, vehicles, and dubious contract deals.
The committee has received numerous suspected cases, which are currently under investigation. The findings will be presented to the Attorney General for possible legal action and prosecution.
Meanwhile, the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), which exited power a week ago, has raised concerns that ORAL has no legal basis to conduct such an operation.
Source: Myjoyonline.com
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Invest in the welfare of children – UNICEF
The Country Representative for United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Ghana, Mr. Osama Makkawi Khogali, has urged the government and other stakeholders to invest more in the welfare of children.
He explained that Africa was home to a growing number of children, and by the year 2050, four out of every 10 children in the world will live in Africa.
This, he said, was a major reason why more investments are needed in children’s education, health, nutrition, safety, digital access, and job training.
Mr Khogali said this in a statement copied to The Spectator in Accra on Monday June 16 to commemorate the Day of the African Child.
Every year on June 16, the Day of the African Child is celebrated to remember the brave children of the 1976 Soweto Uprising in South Africa. These children stood up against unfair education and fought for their rights. Today, the day reminds everyone to stand up for the rights and welfare of African children.
Mr. Khogali said, “we must act now so that children would not only survive but grow and succeed. Africa’s future is global, and it begins with the children of today.”
The Country Representative for UNICEF said, in Ghana, children make up about 45 per cent of the country’s population, indicating that the future of Ghana depends heavily on how well children were supported and protected today.
He therefore called on governments, communities, families, and individuals to work together and make sure every child has access to good education, health care, safety, and opportunities.
“Helping children now is the smartest way to build a strong and successful country,” he added.
UNICEF is the world’s leading children’s organisation. It works in over 190 countries to protect children’s rights and ensure that every child has the chance to live, grow, and reach their full potential.
By Esinam Jemima Kuatsinu
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First Lady, Lordina Mahama address 7th Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit in Dubai
The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana on Wednesday, June 18, addressed the prestigious 7th Edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Summit in Dubai.
The programme held at Hilton Hotel was attended by First Ladies from about 15 African and Asian countries.
The First Lady shared insights on strengthening healthcare systems, empowering women, and celebrating the impactful partnership between Ghana and the Merck Foundation over the past 13 years.
Mrs Mahama also underscored the critical role of First Ladies as Ambassadors for the “More Than a Mother” campaign, working to break the stigma around infertility and promote gender equality.
At the Committee Meeting held on Thursday, June 19, Mrs.Lordina Mahama through her presentation showed video documentary of her varied projects aimed at impacting lives.
The documentary showcased her extensive works in Education, health and other sectors of the country.
This received applauds and commendation from her colleague First Ladies and leadership of Merck Foundation.
Expressing gratitude to the Merck Foundation, she reiterated her and the Lordina Foundation’s commitment to strengthening collaboration for enhanced initiatives in health, education, and combating social stigma across Ghana.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme, Dubai
