Editorial
Monument for Atsu: A call too early
Dear Editor,
About three weeks ago, I wrote a letter to The Spectator expressing the hope that the ex-Ghana international footballer, Christian Atsu, would be found. Though he was eventually found, he was not in a state that we were expecting. Last weekend a number of dignitaries joined the bereaved family to observe one week of his demise.
Prior to the one week observation, I chanced on an online publication where a delegation from the Ada Traditional Council had gone to formally announce the death of the football star to President Akufo-Addo at the Jubilee House.
In the midst of the conversation at the Jubilee House, the elders reportedly appealed to the government to build a monument in honour of the late footballer. The request was hinged on the player’s contribution to the game in Ghana as well as his humanitarian works.
It is not clear if the request would be granted but my initial reaction after reading the story was whether the timing of the request was appropriate.
Although, I agree with the fact that the remarkable contribution of the late footballer cannot go unnoticed, I thought the request from the Traditional Council was coming too early, considering that the player had not been buried.
I guess a good time for requesting a monument in honour of the late footballer should be after the March 25, 2023 date which had been scheduled for the funeral. The timing of the request, in my opinion, was premature.
I cannot tell what the President would decide eventually but even if the physical monument is not built to honour the celebrated footballer, the philanthropic works and the lives he had impacted in the course of his career would remain the greatest legacy.
James Kwame Obeng,
Achimota-Accra
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
