Editorial
Passionate appeal to Russia to call-off war with Ukraine
Dear Editor,
War, in which ever form it takes, be it between people of two tribes, between two communities, two Nations or between allies of Super Powers in the world; is in my opinion, not only destructive but also demonic. It must not be supported or welcome by any decent minded person living anywhere in the world, under the sun.
War is devastating, it traumatises people, leads to misery and derails the progress of humanity. In modern time, it is highly considered barbaric for a group of people to take up arms to wage war against fellow humans, no matter what might have caused their action.
Just as people admire little good things done to them by others, on the contrary, trivial things we may do, or say to others without being so careful, can lead to offences which nevertheless, could spark serious misunderstanding and eventually lead to war.
Sometime ago in Ghana, misunderstanding between two women over the inability of a customer to afford the price of a guinea fowl at the market place sparked war between two neighbouring tribes. Because the seller’s remark to the customer was considered highly insulting and was not kindly entertained.
The loss of lives and properties that followed the war was so much appalling and disturbing. The cost incurred by Government’s intervention in that tribal war was so huge that the money could have been directed for development of a deprived community elsewhere in the country.
Now, let us consider the Russia and Ukraine issue that has become recipe for war.
Ukraine, a close associate of Russia intended to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) of Europe. But Russia is not comfortable with the idea. Russia considers that by so doing, Ukraine’s action would undermine the strength of Russia and its allies in the Eastern block of the world. On the other hand, Ukraine authorities are of opinion that Ukraine is a sovereign state and they are free to make a choice and so Russia should stop any attempt to intimidate them.
The world has now become a global “Village” and so nations have become inter-dependent. Almost every nation of the world is a member of the United Nations Organisation (UNO) whose principal aim is to avoid a third world war so that humanity can live in absolute peace and stability everywhere in the world.
The destruction of lives and properties in Ukraine by Russian rockets or arsenals as of now is too disheartening, callous and inhuman. It is therefore to use this medium to humbly and passionately appeal to the powers that be in the UNO, not to be sitting on the fence but to do everything possible within their power to bring the war to a HALT and to call the warring countries to the conference table for jaw to jaw discussions to ensure amicable resolution of the empasse. This is very crucial and necessary because usually, when two elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers. President Putin of Russia, please, at least, for the sake of the ordinary suffering people of Ukraine, tamper justice with mercy and allow peace to triumph over war, soonest. We need peace, stability and progress everywhere in the world but never, never, and never war.…
CONCERNED CITIZEN OF THE WORLD
(J. K. TETTEH – KPODJIE)
c/o EBENEZER PRESBY CHURCH,
P. O. BOX 10, SOMANYA E/R
PHONE: 050557672086
Editorial
To all Muslims, happy Eid ul Adha!
Muslims in Ghana joined the world yesterday to observe the Eid-ul-Adha; the second of the two main festivals in Islam.
Eid-ul-Adha takes place on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijja, the twelfth and last month of the Islamic calendar, and is also referred to as the “Festival of the Sacrifice.”
It symbolises Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) readiness to offer his son as a sacrifice in response to Allah’s instruction.
In addition to making sacrifices, the celebration aims to spread unity, love, joy, and compassion.
In Ghana, people celebrated the day with special prayers, feasts, and the customary killing of an animal and sharing the flesh with their loved ones, neighbours, and the underprivileged.
During the celebration of the festival Muslims gather at mosques or open areas for congregational prayers early in the morning. After the prayers, people visit each other, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals.
One aspect of the celebration is the wearing of traditional Islamic clothing, such as kaftans, jalabiyas, and abayas, which are in high demand and cause prices to rise sharply during this time.
Abayas and jalabiyas, which are frequently imported from Turkey, Dubai, Egypt, and Northern Nigeria, have become very popular clothing items, leading to price increases, according to reports from our Northern Regional Correspondent.
“Some customers complain about the cost, but many still go ahead and buy because it’s Ramadan,” a store owner said.
However, as there is no set attire for the festival, many Muslims opted for modest, loose-fitting clothing that embodies Islamic principles.
The Spectator, believes that since the celebration is a wonderful occasion and Muslims want to feel happy throughout the festivities, the traditional attire should be reasonably priced so that others can celebrate in style.
We are glad that the holy month is still a precious time despite the economic strains, and that some people make the day extra special for their loved ones.
Despite the hectic preparations the emphasis should always be on appreciating the event’s profound spiritual meaning.
Happy Eid ul Adha to all Muslims.
Editorial
Review GTC’s ban on noise-making
Dear Editor,
I write to express my concerns regarding the annual ban on noise-making instituted by the Ga Traditional Council (GTC) and its impact on Christian churches and other religious institutions.
While I acknowledge and respect the cultural significance of this period for the Ga people, it is important to highlight the challenges it poses to churches within the Greater Accra Region.
The restrictions often affect worship services, prayer meetings, and other religious activities that rely on instruments and singing as core parts of worship. In some cases, churches are compelled to suspend midweek services or modify their mode of worship entirely.
It is important that cultural and religious practices coexist peacefully in a pluralistic society. Mutual respect and dialogue should be encouraged so that neither traditional authorities nor religious institutions felt marginalised.
I respectfully suggest that the Ga Traditional Council, in collaboration with the Christian Council and other faith-based groups, consider establishing clear, fair, and mutually agreeable guidelines that allow worship to continue in a way that respects traditional observances.
Peaceful coexistence is possible when there is open dialogue, understanding, and respect for all cultures and beliefs. Let us work together toward solutions that promote unity and harmony in our communities.
Eugene Ampiaw
Accra-Mamprobi
