Editorial
Need to reduce funeral expenses
Funerals are usually organised to honour the dead because humans are considered special creations of God.
It is, however, becoming worrying that high expenses are usually incurred by families during the organisation of funerals for loved ones.
There is nothing wrong with incurring some costs in connection with funerals but in a situation where millions and millions of Ghana Cedis, sometimes dollars, are spent on the dead, it becomes difficult, sometimes, to understand them.
Today, there is hardly any difference between a party organised for friends and funeral organised for lost ones.
This is because in both instances, sumptuous meals are prepared for those who attend such events, whether party or funeral.
Much money can be saved on funeral and used to cater for children who need to be well educated to become useful, productive members of society.
There have been cases, countless of them, where new cloths are cut and sewn to mark such events. This explains why upon the death of certain people, families that do not have much money begin to weep and weep, realising that getting money for funerals will be difficult to come by.
Some members or families also go and borrow huge sums of money just to organise funerals after which they are mercilessly tackled for the repayment of the loan taken.
All these are lifestyles that are needless and should, therefore, be avoided if we are to live in peace with one another.
It is, therefore, important to minimise expenses on funerals and rather save money for the living. This is what we need to make society a joyous one.
Dear Editor,
I WRITE to draw the attention of NADMO and other related agencies to the recent prediction by the Ghana Meteorological Agency to expect a lot of rains this year, especially in the Southern sector of the country.
GMet issued the forecast to provide an early warning to protect lives and property.
Interestingly, the Southern sector happens to be one of the many trouble spots in the country when the rains start.
It predicted the season to start in March and continue until July or August with above-normal rainfall along the eastern coast and nearby inland areas, including Accra, Tema, Cape Coast, Saltpond, Asamankese, Akim Oda, Koforidua, and Kade.
Knowing the problems faced as a country, concerns have been raised in certain quarters about the aftermath flooding problems in low-lying areas.
These concerns are well placed because flooding has become an annual ritual associated with the season.
My appeal goes to NADMO as well as the district and metropolitan assemblies. They are responsible for activities before and after the season.
As we prepare, they must spearhead the campaign to desilt the drainages in order for water to flow freely.
The citizenry must also show some sense of responsibility by desisting from throwing rubbish into gutters to block the free flow of water.
Noah Musa,
Adabraka
Dear Editor,
I WOULD like to express my views on why some people abuse leaders on social media platforms.
In recent times, social media has become a powerful tool for communication and expression. Unfortunately, many people misuse this freedom by insulting and abusing leaders instead of engaging in constructive criticism.
One major reason for this behaviour is frustration. When citizens feel ignored, unemployed, or affected by poor policies, they sometimes turn their anger toward leaders online.
Another reason is anonymity. Social media allows users to hide behind fake names and profiles, which gives them the confidence to say things they would not dare say in public. This lack of accountability encourages abusive language and disrespectful comments.
Ignorance and misinformation also play a role. Some people abuse leaders based on false news or rumours without verifying facts. This leads to unnecessary attacks that can damage reputations and create tension in society.
While leaders should be held accountable, abuse and insults do not solve problems. Too many people are finding social media platforms as homes to hide and churn out untruths that goes a long way to damage the image and credibility of the victims.
Constructive criticism, dialogue, and lawful channels are better ways to express dissatisfaction. Citizens must remember that respect is essential for national unity and development.
I hope this letter will encourage people to use social media responsibly and promote respectful communication.
Eugene Ampiaw,
Takoradi
