Hot!
UPDN expresses deep disappointment over lack of progress in arresting killers of Ahmed Suale
The United Press for Development Network (UPDN) has said it stands in solidarity with the family, friends, and colleagues of Ahmed Hussein-Suale Divela on this solemn occasion as they mark five years after the killing of the investigative journalist.
UPDN said they remember Ahmed not only for the fearless journalist he was but also for the impact his work has had on fostering transparency, accountability, and ethical journalism.
His killing serves as a stark reminder of the challenges journalists face in their pursuit of truth, a statement said.
Ahmed Suale, 31, an investigative journalist, worked with Tiger Eye PI, the investigative firm established by Anas Aremeyaw Anas, known for its use of undercover journalistic methods to expose corruption and other ills in society.
His murder in Accra in January 2019, shocked many across the media landscape.
“The attack on Ahmed Suale echoes the broader threats against press freedom and the dangers faced by investigative journalists who strive to expose corruption and wrongdoing,” the UPDN statement said.
Source:3news.com
Below is the full statement…
Five (5) Years On: Remembering the Tragic Murder of Investigative Journalist Ahmed Hussein-Suale Divela
ACCRA, GHANA TUESDAY JANUARY 16, 2024; Today marks the solemn occasion of the fifth anniversary of the brutal murder of Mr. Ahmed Hussein-Suale Divela, a dedicated member of Tiger Eye P.I. and a fearless investigative journalist. Ahmed Suale lost his life in a callous act of violence on the night of Wednesday, January 16, 2019, sending shockwaves throughout the journalistic community in Ghana and around the world.
Ahmed was shot twice in the chest and once in the neck by faceless assailants riding motorcycles, in what was a blatant attack on press freedom and the pursuit of truth. His untimely death occurred just months after the airing of the ground breaking investigative documentary “Number 12: When Greed and Corruption Become the Norm,” led by the celebrated undercover investigative journalist Mr. Anas Aremeyaw Anas.
United Press for Development Network (UPDN) stands in solidarity with the family, friends, and colleagues of Ahmed Hussein-Suale Divela on this solemn occasion. We remember Ahmed not only for the fearless journalist he was but also for the impact his work has had on fostering transparency, accountability, and ethical journalism.
The tragic events of that fateful night serve as a stark reminder of the challenges journalists face in their pursuit of truth. The attack on Ahmed Suale echoes the broader threats against press freedom and the dangers faced by investigative journalists who strive to expose corruption and wrongdoing.
UPDN expresses deep disappointment and dismay at the lack of progress in bringing the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice. We are particularly concerned about the apparent lack of urgency and commitment demonstrated by key authorities in resolving this case.
We call upon the Director-General of the Criminal Investigation Department, DCOP Faustina Agyeiwaa Kodua Andoh, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame and President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to prioritize the investigation into Ahmed Suale’s murder. It is disheartening to witness the lapse in accountability for such a grave violation of human rights and an attack on the cornerstone of democracy and freedom of the press.
Ghana, often hailed as the shining star of democratic values and free speech credentials in Africa, has seen a decline in its world press freedom ranking. This tragic incident and the subsequent lack of progress in ensuring justice serve as a stain on Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democratic principles. Our current world press freedom ranking is a stark reminder of the urgency needed to address these challenges and restore faith in the nation’s commitment to press freedom.
As the 2024 Parliamentary and Presidential elections approach, UPDN issues a stern warning against any form of press assault and media brutality in Ghana. We firmly believe that when you touch one journalist, you touch all journalists. Our commitment to defending the rights and safety of journalists is unwavering, and we will not countenance any act that undermines the essential role of the media in a thriving democracy.
UPDN calls for immediate and transparent action to bring the perpetrators of Ahmed Suale’s murder to justice, reinforcing the values of democracy, free speech, and press freedom that Ghana has long championed on the African continent.
We remember Ahmed Hussein-Suale Divela with utmost respect and solidarity.
Rest in Peace Soldier
Rest in Perfect Peace Ahmed Hussein-Suale
God bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong.
-End-
Signed
Kofi Asante Mensah
(President)
Tel: 024-469-0262
Office: 0302-965-325
National Communication Bureau
Kelvin Malor
(National Organizer)
024-599-5541
Betty Boafo
(Secretary)
024-487-0055
David Albert Quainoo
(South Korea Coordinator)
+821021174780
Eric Nana Prekoh
(Media Relations Coordinator)
024-646-0428
William Hayford Mintah
(Central Region Coordinator)
024-476-6538
Hot!
Many SOEs have been used as mere instruments for personal wealth accumulation –Pres.Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has expressed concern over the misuse of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) for personal financial gain by individuals in leadership positions.
Speaking during a meeting with Chief Executives of specified entities under the State Interest and Governance Authority (SIGA) on Thursday, March 13, the President directly attributed the dire state of SOEs to their leadership, accusing chief executives, management teams, and governing boards of prioritising personal enrichment over organisational efficiency.
He pointed to bloated budgets, unjustified allowances, and unnecessary expenditures as factors draining public funds while SOEs continue to rely on government bailouts.
“Many SOEs have been used as mere instruments for personal wealth accumulation by appointees. The chief executives, management, and boards of these enterprises are responsible for this situation. Some SOEs have become perennial loss-makers, draining public funds with bloated budgets, unjustified allowances, and unnecessary expenditures while relying on government bailouts as if entitled to them. Many of these entities are at their lowest point in the entire history of the Fourth Republic,” he said.
President Mahama further noted that many SOEs have been plagued by inefficiencies, corruption, and mismanagement, leading to consistent financial losses. He cited the 2023 State Ownership Report by the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), which highlighted systemic inefficiencies and wasteful expenditures within these entities.
He therefore reaffirmed his commitment to reforming under-performing SOEs and ensuring they serve national interests.
He warned that loss-making SOEs will no longer be tolerated and will either be merged, privatised, or closed.
“I will assess you based on your performance. If you do not align with the pace of the reset agenda, you may be asked to step aside. If that adds to the horror movie, so be it,” he added.
Source: Myjoyonline.com
Hot!
Prophet Courage Heavens set to launch ‘Predestination’ book on March 23
Prophet Courage A. Heavens is set to launch the much-awaited book titled ‘Predestination’ on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at 5:00PM.
The launch, which is expected to impact lives, will take place at Crossgates Ministries, Flattop, off N1 Highway, opposite Angel Hauz.
The book is aimed at addressing the way people struggle to understand how free will and destiny align.
It is also aimed at providing clarity on God’s sovereignty and one’s place in His divine plan.
The various chapters of the book address various issues through scriptures and personal stories.
Committed to impacting society, part of the proceeds from the book will go into Courage Heavens Education Legacy (CHEL), an educational foundation transforming lives.
CHEL is dedicated to providing financial support and mentorship to brilliant but needy students, ensuring they have access to quality education and opportunities for a better future.
Prophet Courage Heavens is a prolific writer and previously authored Eli Eli Lama Sabachthani, a powerful book that encourages unwavering faith in times of trials.
In addition, he has written seven more prophetic and life-changing books that are yet to be published.
He is dedicated to raising the next generation for impactful ministry. As the leader of Crossgates Ministries, he nurtures believers in faith and purpose.
