Editorial
Is neutrality allowance justifiable?
One issue that has come up in recent times is the pressure being put on government to pay political neutrality allowance to certain categories of civil servants.
This demand is very strange seeing that all civil and public servants are expected to be politically neutral in their day-to-day activities.
All civil and public servants are different from politicians and so are not expected to meddle in political activities as stipulated in the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana. In fact, civil and public servants are expected to keep away from partisan politics but implement political programmes and policies in the interest of the nation.
All civil servants are aware of this that is why when they go wrong they are hardly dismissed but transferred to new places where it is expected that they will change for the better.
A politician can be dropped from office at any point in time but the civil servant is not treated the same way. This shows that he/she is shielded from the shakeups that affect those who occupy political offices.
In light of all this, it is wrong for any group of people to demand political neutrality allowance since the 1992 Constitution makes it clear to them how they are protected and kept away from unwarranted dismissal. It is, therefore, difficult to understand why any civil servant should be paid such ‘unjustifiable’ allowance.
We are encouraging government not to succumb to the payment of this allowance otherwise it will lead to the creation of disorderliness among all workers who operate in the civil and public sectors of the country. If this is the case, then the civil servants concerned should drop the agitation for the payment of this allowance.
If this allowance is paid, then all workers in Ghana apart from politicians should also be made to enjoy same.
The Spectator is of the view that instead of embarking on agitations for these ‘unjustifiable’ allowances, they should rather negotiate with government to improve upon the conditions of workers in a manner that will cut across all sectors and encourage people to work hard.
This objective may not be achieved overnight but we can make consistent efforts towards it until the ultimate goal is achieved.
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
