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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
Muslims across the country celebrated this year’s Eid-ul-Adha in a colourful and spiritually uplifting atmosphere under the theme, “A Season of Sacrifice, Solidarity and Spiritual Renewal.”
The celebration brought together Muslims from diverse backgrounds in a remarkable display of faith, unity and cultural heritage.
The occasion was marked by special Eid prayers at various designated grounds, the slaughtering of rams in homes for sharing among family members, friends and the less privileged, as well as musical concerts and recreational activities including horse riding.
Leading the celebration was the Chief Imam, Dr Sheikh Osman Sharubutu.
While the national celebration was held at the Black Star Square where President John Dramani Mahama was the Special Guest of Honour, similar gatherings took place at different centres across the capital and other regions of the country.
A visit by The Spectator to some celebration grounds revealed Muslims, both young and old, elegantly dressed in colourful jalabiya and other Islamic attire, reflecting the rich culture and traditions of the Muslim community.
The celebration also portrayed the spirit of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence in the country, as a number of Christians joined their Muslim counterparts to mark the occasion.
Muslim leaders and government officials used the opportunity to call on the faithful to uphold the teachings of the Holy Quran, renew their spiritual commitment and refrain from acts capable of undermining the peace, unity and security of the nation.
They further urged Ghanaians to continue to live in harmony and support one another for national development.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
Dear Obaa Yaa,
During Eid-ul- Adha celebration, I decided to spend the weekend at my boyfriend’s place since we were planning towards our marriage.
To my surprise, what keeps me wide awake, restless and frustrated every single time is that he snores loudly like a generator running on full power, and I genuinely cannot get any rest
At a point, I thought it was just a normal thing, but I have realised it is something he does with ease and doesn’t see anything wrong with it.
When he steps out in the morning, I try to get enough sleep because I may not sleep in the evening.
The most annoying thing is that, he always wants to cuddle me. These two things are a no for me and a red flag.
We are about to get married, what should I do?
Enam, Keta.
Dear Enam,
The snoring and constant cuddling are frustrating, but you don’t have to choose between sleep and closeness.
Start with the snoring: check if it’s worse when he sleeps on his back, cut out alcohol before bed, try nasal strips or a humidifier, and see a doctor if he pauses while breathing.
For quick relief, foam earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones help a lot.
Separate blankets, a bigger bed, or sleeping apart on some nights often makes couples rest well and feel closer overall.
Bring this up before the wedding .Tell him you want to wake up next to him for years to come, but sleep deprivation makes you both miserable.
Test earplugs and side-sleeping this weekend, and if it’s still unbearable, bring in a doctor. Good sleep matters more for your marriage than staying glued together all night.
