Editorial
Don’t drive under influence of illegal drugs
In view of drunkenness and drug abuse on the part of some drivers, it is necessary to promote sensitisation for road users.
Experts say alcohol dulls parts of the brain that control how the body works. It can interfere with attention, perceptual functioning, and motor skills, as well as decision-making while driving. Drinking, therefore, impairs the ability to drive and increases the risk of causing an accident.
Incredibly, some of our drivers resort to hard drugs and alcohol before getting into their vehicles at the various lorry stations. This behaviour is bad because while they think the drugs they take can make them work hard and not get tired, they rather harm them in many ways.
Though such drivers are able to work throughout the day and at night in order to make more money for themselves, this behaviour is not good but the drivers are ignorant about the effects on their own lives.
The truth is substance use can impair perception, cognition, attention, balance, coordination, and other brain functions necessary for safe driving. Driving under hard or soft drug has been linked to reckless driving, car crashes, and fatal accidents.
In light of this, The Spectator is advising all our drivers to stay away from this behaviour. When they decide to work throughout the night, their bodies get tired and they can easily break down or have accidents on the road.
The result may be unpleasant as lives can be lost. This brings sadness to many families.
As Christmas approaches, many drivers are planning to take advantage of the festive season to make more profit. They must do this through their natural strength, not by any other means.
They should avoid their usual intention to work extra hours by using hard or soft drugs like marijuana, hashish, ecstasy, and cocaine to achieve their goals.
Every driver must abstain from using these drugs.
It is also good that everyone abstains from drugs in order for our society to be free and safe.
Christmas is a season of peace. We must all work to make the season a happy, peaceful, and enjoyable occasion.
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
