Editorial
Take advantage of SIM cards re-registration extension
The Ministry of Communications has announced that the deadline for the re-registration of SIM cards has been extended from March 31 to July 31, this year.
This is good news in view of the large number of people who could not have re-registered their cards by March 31.
The re-registration became necessary due to issues of fraud and deceit through the use of phones and even the internet system. For this reason, it became necessary for the state through the Ministry of Communications to take steps to address the issue of fraud. It is easy for anybody to pick up SIM cards that have not been registered to commit crimes against other people. Such crimes have become difficult to trace; so there is the need to take steps to address the issue.
To be able to do this effectively, all SIM cards, whether previously registered or improperly registered, were required to be re-registered. This time, the re-registration includes capturing the person’s name and others (biodata), so that tracing those who commit crimes in this way can easily be detected.
The exercise began in October last year and should have ended at the end of March, this year. Initially, many people did not take the re-registration seriously for which reason a large number could not have met the deadline.
Again, the re-registration could only be done with the Ghana Card. Unfortunately, many Ghanaians had also not been able to get their Ghanaian Identity Cards.
The Spectator is happy that the deadline has been extended to the ending of July this year.
We are, therefore, appealing to everyone to take the new deadline seriously and do everything possible to get their SIM cards re-registered.
Many re-registration centres have now been opened – and it is only prudent that everyone should take advantage of the situation to do what is honourable so that together, we can use the exercise to fight crime in the country.
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