D's Outlet

"The Evolution and Impact of the Right to Information (RTI)  ACT 989: Enhancing Journalistic Practices, Government Accountability, and Citizen Engagement in Ghana." The establishment of Ghana's RTI (Right to Information) Commission and its nationwide outreach efforts under Act 989 signify a pivotal step towards fostering transparency and accountability within the country. During the third MediaTalk at the African University College of Communications (AUCC) Auditorium in Adabraka yesterday, Stephen Owusu, the Head of Legal, Governance, Regulatory, and Research at the Right to Information Commission, addressed communication students. His focus was on 'The RTI Law: Implications, Provisions, and Limitations,' highlighting its crucial role in fostering transparency and accountability within government operations. By actively engaging communities across Ghana, this initiative aims to raise awareness about citizens' rights to access information, empowering them to ho...

"Arrested NDC Executives in Effutu Granted Bail Amidst Controversy" The Constituency Executives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Effutu, Central Region, arrested by police for their alleged involvement in a protest, have been released on bail.  Their arrest followed their support for nine individuals detained in connection with a demonstration in Winneba. This protest was related to the purported sale of the Ramsar site designated for deer hunting during the Aboakyire festival. Among those arrested were NDC’s Effutu Constituency chairman, Ekow Micah Tuckson (66), Constituency Treasurer Samuel Baffoe (39), and Youth Organiser Albert Nana Benyin Bonney (34). They faced charges including causing harm, unlawful assembly, and demonstrating with offensive weapons. After legal arguments in the Winneba District Court, Counsel for the accused, Mohammed Kofi Twumasi Naya, secured bail for the executives. However, specific conditions were set, mandating the provision of two ...

"Navigating Integrity: Ethical Guidlines for Online Newsrooms" Ethical guidelines for online newsrooms are a set of principles and standards that govern the behavior and practices of journalists, editors, and news organizations when reporting news and information in digital formats. These guidelines serve as a framework to ensure accuracy, fairness, transparency, and responsible journalism in the online sphere. 1. Accuracy and Truthfulness:Online newsrooms should prioritize fact-checking and verification of information before publishing. It's crucial to strive for accuracy in reporting to avoid spreading misinformation or fake news. 2.Fairness and Objectivity:Journalists should present diverse perspectives, provide balanced coverage, and avoid biases in reporting. Fairness involves giving all relevant parties an opportunity to present their viewpoints without undue influence or prejudice. 3.Transparency:News organizations should be transparent about their sources, methodo...

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II first African monarch to be featured in Pirelli Calendar. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has made history by becoming the first African monarch ever to be showcased in the prestigious Pirelli Calendar.  In its 50-year history, this marks the maiden inclusion of an African royal figure in the calendar's annual publication. The Pirelli Calendar, produced by the UK arm of the Italian tire manufacturer, serves as a marker of time since its inception in the 1960s. With a limited production of 20,000 copies yearly, the calendar is not available for sale but is exclusively reserved as corporate gifts for celebrities and select Pirelli customers. This special 2024 edition, themed "Timeless," provides a vivid glimpse into Ghana's rich indigenous culture, global arts, and sports.  Remarkably, this historic edition coincides with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II's Silver Jubilee as Asantehene, commemorating his 25th anniversary since his enstoolment on April ...

It will be difficult for OSP to prove corruption-related offences in alleged vote buying cases-Former Deputy Attorney  Former Deputy Attorney General Joseph Dindiok Kpemka has expressed doubts regarding the Office of the Special Prosecutor's (OSP) capability to prove allegations of corruption and corruption-related offenses in suspected incidents of vote-buying. He highlighted the challenge of conducting a comprehensive investigation to identify the individuals responsible for disbursing funds and the intended purposes behind these transactions. In an interview with JoyNews, Mr. Kpemka stressed the importance of justifying any monetary distributions, regardless of their size. He emphasized the need for explanations if investigations reveal that funds were allocated for purposes such as transportation and sustenance.  “So that is also going to be on the basis of evidence and remember that in law, the act reviews under the intent will have to coincide for you to secure a convict...

Komfo Anokye cola tree cutting suspect meets bail condition Historical cola tree believed to have been planted by famous Komfo Anokye 300 years ago cut down. Solomon Amponsah, the accused person in the case of the cutting of the over 300-year-old historic cola tree (bese) said to have been planted by the famous Okomfo Anokye, fetish priest at Feyiase in the Ashanti region, has met the bail conditions after spending nearly a month in custody. Despite being granted GH¢20,000 bail with a surety by the Atasemanso Circuit Court, Amponsah had faced difficulties in securing his release until recently. In court on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, the prosecution amended the charge sheet from the initial charge of unlawful damage to reflect the illegal felling of the tree. The suspect pleaded not guilty to this new charge as the presiding judge, Gloria Mensah Bonsu adjourned the case to December 28, ordering the prosecution to file disclosures and other documents related to the trial. Authorities l...

 The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor has insisted that Ghana will not allow the export of lithium in its raw state. The minister's explanation follows the mining lease granted to Barari DV Ltd, a subsidiary of Atlantic Lithium, for the exploitation of lithium at the Ewoyaa concessions in the Central Region. Already, the ministry and the Minerals Commission have said the deal is one of the best terms for Ghana and will be strictly enforced.  For this reason, Mr Jinapor has said, government had infused in the lithium agreement between it and Barari DV Ghana Limited a clause that ensure the retention of a significant part of the mining value chain locally. Addressing a press briefing on Ghana’s First Lithium Contract, Terms, Benefits and the Way Forward on Thursday, December 7, 2023, Mr Abu Jinapor insisted that the Lithium  Mining Lease includes provisions for the establishment of a refinery and the provision of the lithium by-products to local i...

  Nurturing Ethical Foundatiobs in Digital Journalism As someone deeply engaged in this field,my journey unveils a narrative that transcends mere reporting,which touches on the evolution of storytelling and the dissemination of information in the digital age. My interest in online journalism has illuminated the multifaceted role it plays on me. Through my contributions, i've witnessed how digital platforms democratize information, giving voice to diverse perspectives and enabling instantaneous global access. My dedication to leveraging these platforms for truth-seeking and storytelling has brought attention to critical issues, fostering a sense of awareness and connectivity among audiences worldwide. In the realm of digital journalism, the power of immediacy is undeniable. The swiftness with which news travels across borders has redefined the nature of storytelling, urging journalists like myself to prioritize accuracy without compromising speed. My experiences likely showcase the ...