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Demand free, fair, transparent election from responsible agencies – Anyako Chief appeals to Pres Akufo-Addo
Torgbui Badu IV (third right) with some elders on his coronation
The Chief of Anyako, representing the Klevia Clan of Anlo, Torgbui Badu IV has called on the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to demand from agencies responsible for the organisation of the upcoming Presidential and Parliamentary election a free and fair exercise devoid of violence and clashes.
Ghanaians would go to the polls in December to elect a new president and parliamentarians following the expiration of President Akufo-Addo and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s second term in office.
Torgbui Badu IV’s concern has come in the wake of chaotic scenes recorded in a few centres that had primaries and by-election to replace deceased Members of Parliament (MPs).
These, according to him, were signs of mistrust among the key political parties and to an extent, the processes for the exercise.
It is in this light that he called on the president and government to demand for a peaceful election to further underline Ghana’s democratic credentials.
Speaking with The Spectator over the weekend, Torgbui Badu IV, known in private life as Paul Dogboe and a promising boxing coach, urged government to adopt a detailed plan aimed at curtailing election-related violence.
According to him, it was important to consider initiatives like convening dialogues, leveraging traditional authorities, safeguarding the youth, addressing the various political rhetoric and honour past leaders, adding that, “this can promote unity and a sense of belonging among all.”
Explaining, he said the dialogues with presidential candidates would promote peace education and raise awareness among their adherents, thereby reducing tensions and preventing violence.
He alsobelieves that employing the esteemed influence of chiefs, queens, and other traditional leaders to ensure peace and order, especially in areas vulnerable to electoral unrest was a positive move.
“Engaging traditional authorities would proactively protect the youth in their communities, with a focus on critical locations such as national borders,” he noted.
Torgbui Badu also encouraged political leaders to eschew derogatory and inflammatory language that could lead to violent incidents.
He said it was important to honour former heads of state in recognition of their commitment and contributions to the nation.
“These measures aim to foster an environment of respect, constructive dialogue, and peaceful engagement throughout Ghana’s electoral process. In the Bible, Romans 13:1-7, highlights the scriptural basis for responsible governance and civil obedience. We should be guided by these to make Ghana a peaceful nation,” Torgbui Badu IV said.
By Andrew Nortey
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Oguaa indigenes urged to unite to develop area
Photo Credit: myjoyonline.com
Rich Akan traditions of Fantes and Asantes were the highlights of the celebrations of this year’s Fetu Afahye of the chiefs and people of Oguaa Traditional Area (Cape Coast) which was climaxed last Saturday with a durbar.
Beyond the glitz and splendour was the showcasing of different forms of traditional regalia amidst rich cultural displays of unique Fante and Asante ensembles, both demonstrating distinct Ghanaian identities in unanimity.
Tekua, a Fante traditional hairstyle won by a generation of Fante women caught the attention of a number of the celebrants.
The attendance of Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, took the joy and excitement a notch higher with frenzied atmosphere to welcome him.
The Asantehene who attended the programme by a special invitation from the Omanhen of the Oguaa Traditional Area was accompanied by a large retinue of chiefs from Asanteman.
The Fetu Afahye is a cultural celebration by the people of Oguaa, drawing both locals and visitors from across the country and beyond.
It was held to mark a bumper harvest season and to thank the 77 deities of the Oguaa Traditional Area.
This year’s edition marks the 60th to be held after its suspension.
It also marked the 25th anniversary commemoration of the enthronement of Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II as the Omanhen of the Oguaa Traditional Area.
There was display of rich traditional dances by the various Asafo companies from the Mfantsipim School junction to the Jubilee Park for the durbar.
This year’s event attracted political figures such as Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who doubles as the Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and his running mate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh and other leading figures of the party.
The Vice Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and other leading members of the NDC also attended the event.
From David O. Yarboi-Tetteh, Cape Coast
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Suicide cases high among JHS/SHS students: MHA calls for immediate action to curb menace
The Mental Health Authority (MHA) is calling for immediate solutions to address the alarming prevalence of suicide cases among Junior and Senior High School students.
According to the Authority, it was crucial to pay attention to such children as studies in Ghana are showing a high prevalence of suicidal behaviours among students.
This came to light at a symposium in Accra on Tuesday to mark the World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD).
It was held on the theme “Changing the narrative on suicide with a call to action; start the conversation.”
Speaking at the symposium, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Authority, Professor Pinaman Appau said alarmingly, the prevalence has been reported to be higher among Junior High School students compared to those in the Senior High School.
She said various studies including a 2023 edition conducted by Azazu and Joe found that there was prevalence of 20.4 per cent of suicidal thoughts, 23.4 per cent for suicidal planning, and 28.4 per cent for actual suicide attempts among these groups of school children.
She mentioned bullying, abuse especially physical and sexual, neglect, substance use, family poverty, adolescent conflict with parents, corporal punishment and poor academic performance as causes leading to suicidal thoughts.
Again, factors including previous attempts, mental illness, gambling, financial and job crisis, chronic illness and pain, criminal or legal and impulsive behaviour can also lead to suicide.
Prof Appau said the challenges faced with addressing suicide issues were multifaceted and complex, adding that people grapple with stigma surrounding mental health issues, limited access to mental health services and a lack of general awareness of suicide prevention strategies.
She said the challenges were further compounded by deepening socio-economic challenges in societies such as the harsh reality of economic hardship, unemployment and social instability.
Dr Appau mentioned that the rippling effect of suicide leaves behind a trail of grief, guilt, and unanswered questions, saying, the economic cost of suicide attempts in terms of health care expenses and loss of productivity places additional burden on the country’s strained resources.
She said a total of 81 persons have committed suicide in 2024 with 543 attempts across the country, adding that the figure indicates an alarming increase compared to the 594 attempts and 48 completed cases recorded in 2023.
Regionally, Greater Accra, Eastern and Central regions recorded the highest numbers of suicide attempts for the first half of the year 2024, with most completed suicides occurring in the Greater Accra region.
Prof Appau has therefore called for a concerted effort to resolve and change the narrative by engaging stakeholders including security and media personnel, to create nationwide awareness and education through various media platforms.
By Jemima Esinam Kuatsinu
