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Restraint must be guiding principle for all this political season
“Democracy cannot succeed unless those who make their choice are prepared to choose wisely. The real safeguard of democracy, therefore, is education. – Franklin D. Rosevelt.
A critical analysis of the above statement carries enormous weight.
All too soon, the time has come for eligible Ghanaian voters to exercise their franchise during the forthcoming general elections.
The stakes are extremely high and people have geared up to exercise their franchise on December 7, 2020.
The decision to choose persons in an election to govern the country rests solely on the electorate, and their right must be expressed responsibly.
While the individual takes steps to exercise this inalienable right, this must be done within the confines of the law.
It is important to note that so long as we remain humans, our decisions and choices may vary based on one’s political affiliation or for different reasons.
The electorate are going to cast their votes based on several considerations which are critically driven by their political affiliations.
In events of this magnitude, the active participation of the youth cannot be downplayed. Forming more than half of the country’s population, the decision of the youth must be viewed as very crucial in the decision making process.
Since they are often driven by youthful exuberance, they must conduct themselves very well not to fall into trouble or not fall foul of the law.
They must remember that any negative attitude to disturb the peace of the country in the name of election will not go unpunished.
The youth should keep in mind that indulging in untoward acts would surely put them in trouble.
Those who have the penchant to forment trouble or vowed to use clandestine means to bring their preferred candidates to power must be prepared to face the consequences of their actions.
They must pause and think twice about whatever action they intend to take before the reality downs on them.
The recent clashes between the adherents of the two main political parties in the country at Odododiodo give cause to worry. This should serve as an example for the youth who ought to learn useful lessons and appropriately guide themselves in society.
It should serve also as warning that if care is not taken, petty issues which cannot be resolved would degenerate into serious problems.
Self restraint
The political season is pregnant with statements and actions which are laden with provocative words and insults, intended to incite opponents. Such provocative statements have the potential to cause disaffection.
In such situations, the youth should develop the capacity to tolerate divergent views and contain the barrage of insults and insinuations.
This is not the time to showcase their physical capabilities and preparedness to fight.
Election is about creating a congenial atmosphere for those who wish to stand for election to exchange their views, provide credible alternatives and have what it takes to convince the electorate to vote in a particular way.
This credible avenue which has been created should not be used as a negative tool to forment violence which would disturb the peace Ghanaians are enjoying.
The political violence which occurred at Odododiodio in Accra must be condemned by all irrespective of one’s political leaning.
Consequence
The youth should know that they are the future leaders of this country and must make themselves ready to assume leadership roles when the time comes.
Violence or any form of disturbance would be met with the rigid enforcement of the laws of the state. The youth should not be swayed into the path of making it possible for their political idols to come to power at all cost irrespective of the consequences.
Responsibilities
It is incumbent on parents, guardians and those in leadership positions not to relent in their efforts to advise the youth to conduct themselves responsibly.
Through the youth may seem to be recalcitrant, the elderly have great responsibility to continue with the pieces of advice.
By Raymond Kyekye
News
Bawku crisis: Mahama to announce major security appointments this week
President John Dramani Mahama is expected to announce key security appointments by the end of the week as part of efforts to address the ongoing conflict in Bawku and its surrounding areas.
This development follows the recent nomination of ministers-designate for Finance, Energy and Green Transition, and the Office of the Attorney General and Justice.
Speaking at the Bawku Naba Palace during an address to the chiefs and people of the Kusaug Traditional Area, President Mahama emphasized that the security appointments are a crucial first step in his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and stability to the conflict-ridden region.
He said, “And so within this week, we’ll do the appointments of the Minister for Defence, the Minister for Interior, the National Security co-ordinator, the national security advisor, the BNI director; and when these appointments are made I am going to charge them to make Bawku one of their major priorities.”
“This last election has cemented our reputation as the leading democracy in Africa and a good part of the thanks goes to you the security services who have maintained peace,”he added.
He expressed confidence that the new security measures would help de-escalate tensions and promote harmony in Bawku.
“We still have threats to our peace that we must continue to look at internally and externally. Internally to do with chieftaincy disputes and some incidents of armed robbery and things like that. Externally to do with the threats on our northern borders and so we cannot let our vigilance down”, President Mahama added.
Source: Citinewsroom.com
News
The girl from Kwahu Obomeng: Nana Akua’s inspiring media journey
Rising from the serene hills of Kwahu Obomeng to the bustling studios of Ghana’s top media houses, Sheila Owusu, affectionately known as Obomengniibaa Nana Akua, is carving an indelible mark in Ghana’s entertainment industry.
A dynamic blend of talent, creativity, and determination, Nana Akua has become a powerhouse, mastering the realms of radio, content creation, event hosting, and media production.
Her journey began humbly at GhanaCelebrities.com, where she emerged as an engaging entertainment presenter and content creator. With a knack for celebrity trends and stories that resonated with youthful audiences, Nana Akua quickly became a standout in the digital space, laying a solid foundation for her media career.
Her talent didn’t go unnoticed. At Despite Media, Nana Akua brought her flair to Entertainment Ghana and the Social Trends segment on Neat FM. As a production assistant for Entertainment Review on Peace FM, she fine-tuned her production skills while navigating the fast-paced world of entertainment news and celebrity gossip.
The turning point in her career came at Asaase Radio, where her creativity soared. As the producer for Asaase Café, hosted by Caroline Sampson, and 995 Rush Hour with Elvis Crystal, she curated dynamic, engaging content that captivated listeners. Nana Akua also added her voice to the mix, hosting The Juice, an entertainment news segment that delivered the latest happenings in Ghana’s entertainment world.
Her influence extended to AsaasePa 107.3 FM, where she produced the Kete Drive show, cementing her reputation as a versatile producer with a keen understanding of diverse audiences.
The face of major events
Nana Akua’s charisma shone brightest as an event host. In 2023, she took centre stage at the Miss Natural Beauty Ghana Pageant, wowing audiences with her professionalism and ability to connect. Her involvement in high-profile events such as AfroFuture (formerly Afrochella), AfroNation, Taste of Ghana, and the Bhim Concert highlighted her role in crafting impactful radio content and live coverage that brought these events closer to listeners.
Her dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Nana Akua was awarded the Entertainment Personality of the Year in 2022 at the Ghana Media and Entrepreneurship Awards, a testament to her growing influence.
Championing women in media
A staunch advocate for women in entertainment, Nana Akua currently produces and hosts Penpensiwa on AsaasePa, a groundbreaking show featuring all-female panels discussing pivotal issues in Ghana’s entertainment industry. By amplifying the voices of women, she is fostering a platform for empowerment and dialogue.
Nana Akua’s creativity extends beyond the airwaves. Through her personal website, nanaakuaohenewaa.com, she writes on entertainment, lifestyle, and social issues, further enriching her digital footprint. Her vision doesn’t stop there; her passion project, the Obomengniibaa Creative Network, promises to showcase her creative genius and inspire others in the industry.
Despite her success, Nana Akua’s heart remains in her hometown, Kwahu Obomeng. She treasures its lush greenery, iconic architecture, and serene atmosphere, often retreating there to recharge. For her, Kwahu is more than a home; it is an endless source of inspiration.
Outside the spotlight, Nana Akua enjoys music, writing, shopping, traveling, cooking, and exploring true crime documentaries—interests that enrich her multifaceted personality.
As Nana Akua continues to push boundaries, her journey inspires a new generation of creatives and entrepreneurs. With a vision of empowering others and redefining media excellence, she is poised to leave a legacy that resonates far beyond Kwahu Obomeng.
