Editorial
MARTIN AMIDU’S RESIGNATION
The hopes of people were high when Mr Martin Amidu was appointed to occupy the Office of Special Prosecutor but this, as is now known, did not last for long following his unexpected resignation.
It is very unfortunate that things have gone this way because the fight against corruption or corrupt practices is something that should be detested by all well-meaning Ghanaians.
Corruption has always resulted in the loss of huge sums of money to the state, a situation that makes it impossible for such diverted sums of money to be used for national development for the common good. This is very unfortunate so corruption must be discouraged at all times.
Mr Martin Amidu in his resignation letter pointed out the interference with his work on the part of government, something President Akufo-Addo described as perplexing.
However, information coming out shows that Mr Amidu made too many demands regarding office and other forms of accommodation as well as the personnel to work with and the budget he needed.
Another question that must be answered is, why he kept making demands upon demands for facilities and building to work with. In some cases, after identifying a place for renovation to be used as an office, he turned round almost immediately to refuse his own choice and rather made other new demands.
Whatever it is, it is good that he has tendered in his resignation at this time. The resignation is good because it will give the President an opportunity to appoint a new person to that office to carry on the fight against corruption.
Whoever is appointed to the office of the Special Prosecutor must be willing to work hard so that the people of this country can support him to succeed. There were others who doubted whether Mr Amidu could do the job when he was first appointed, explaining he had a very high temperament and could not easily work with others.
As a nation, we need to work against corruption so the President should keep his calm and look round to appoint a new person who is suitably qualified to occupy that position.
In the view of The Spectator, we need to make corruption as unattractive as possible in this country. This can only come about when we have a reliable or a dependable Special Prosecutor who could be willing to carry through the mandate given him under Act 959.
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
