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The COVID-19 testing controversy in Parliament needless
In the last few days, all 275 Members of Parliament (MPs) and staff of Parliament have been undergoing a mandatory COVID-19 test ordered by the Speaker Mike Oquaye.
As part of efforts to prevent the spread of the dreaded global pandemic in the House, the Speaker last week directed the Medical Directorate of Parliament to conduct the test on all those who work at the legislative wing of the government.
What was envisaged to be a routine test, with the results communicated privately to only the individuals concerned has turned out into a controversy that appears to divide the House on a matter that should have the support of all members of Parliament.
This is a matter that needed a collective approach because the disease is no respecter of status in society. It is attacking and killing everyone so it is surprising that a mere test in the House is generating such controversy.
It is a matter of concern that the House cannot agree on the mode of disclosing the results of the test such that the public is being fed with conflicting results from the test conducted on the staff and MPs
While media reports has it that some MPs as well as staff have tested positive which was collaborated by the Minority Chief Whip, Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka, the Majority Leader, Kyei Mensah Bonsu and the Public Affairs Director of Parliament, Kate Addo, dispute the claim.
According to a statement authored by the Public Affairs Department, “Parliament would like to state categorically that the results of the tests were not yet known and so the report is not true.
“The confidentiality protocol of testing for COVID-19 is that, those who test positive will be called directly by the testing team and taken through the necessary steps for quarantine and treatment. Officially Parliament is unaware of any such call and has no official figures from the National COVID-19 response team.
So what is really the beef? While the Speaker of the House is of the view that public disclosure of the test results has the potential of fuelling stigmatisation other members’ some think otherwise.
That is what had led to the public spar and led to a needless public discussion that is unnecessary. While we do not support those who advocate public disclosure of the health status of individual concerned, i do not think that it is also helpful to prevent individuals to freely divulge their health status to the public.
The Ghanaian Times recalls that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the First Lady, Rebecca and Former President Jerry John Rawlings as well as many prominent citizens at different times willingly disclosed their COVID-19 status. The public is fully aware of their status and we think it will send a good signal to the citizenry to follow.
It is, therefore, baffling that our MPs cannot find a common ground to deal with the results of their COVID-19 test in the House. We are not the ones to tell them what to do but we would have appreciated it if they had followed the examples of prominent people around the globe who had no problem with disclosing their COVID-19 status.
The MPs are role models and public figures many look up to and it is important that they exhibit exemplary leadership and show the way for many who look up to them to follow.
Allowing the public know about their COVID-19 status would encourage people to go for voluntary tests and not be afraid to disclose the results because no one would stigmatise them.
We are encouraged by the MPs and we commend them for going through such an important exercise at this crucial time as we battle the global pandemic which we believe would send a strong signal to the general public to continue to observe the health protocols that are vital for the fight against COVID-19.
AS Valentine’s Day is marked around the world with flowers, gifts and romantic gestures, a marriage counsellor has encouraged Ghanaians to move beyond the commercial celebration and reflect on the deeper meaning of love rooted in faith.
Speaking to The Spectator, Counsellor Prince Offei, who is also a mental health professional and a Reverend Minister, said Valentine’s Day has strong Christian origins that were often ignored in contemporary celebrations.
He explained that the day was linked to Saint Valentine, a third-century Christian priest who defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriage by secretly officiating weddings for young couples. Saint Valentine was later arrested and executed for his actions.
“Saint Valentine stood for love, commitment and marriage, even at the cost of his life; that legacy is what inspired the celebration of love that we now know as Valentine’s Day,” Counsellor Offei said.
He noted that the celebration remains relevant to Christianity when approached from a spiritual perspective.
“As Christians, Valentine’s Day offers an opportunity to reflect on God’s unconditional love for humanity,” he said, citing 1 John 4:19, which states that love originates from God.
“When love, kindness and generosity are at the centre, the celebration aligns with Christian values.”
Addressing debates over the origins of Valentine’s Day, Counsellor Offei mentioned that the modern observance can be redeemed when believers focus on demonstrating Christ-like love.
“We can use the day to strengthen relationships, share scripture and show love in practical ways,” he said, referencing John 13:34, which urges believers to love one another as Christ loved them.
On how the day should be observed, Counsellor Offei stressed that Valentine’s Day is not limited to romantic relationships.
“For singles, it can be a time to practise self-love and appreciate family and friendships,” he said, adding that for couples who are dating, it is an opportunity to deepen understanding, while married couples can use the day to reconnect and renew their commitment.
He also encouraged acts of service, noting that showing compassion to those in need reflects the true spirit of love.
However, the counsellor expressed concern over the growing association of Valentine’s Day with promiscuity.
“It is worrying when the day is used to justify immoral behaviour,” he said. “Christian teachings emphasise that sexual intimacy is sacred and meant for marriage. When this is ignored and misused, it often leads to emotional and psychological harm,” he added.
Counsellor Offei urged Christians, particularly the youth, to resist societal pressure and remain grounded in faith.
“Young people should remember that true love is rooted in God’s love,” he said. “Social media trends should not define their worth or relationships. Scripture and godly counsel remain the best guides.”
He called on Christians to use Valentine’s Day as a reminder of love that is sacrificial, responsible and reflective of God’s nature.
By Esinam Jemima Kuatsinu
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The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has congratulated radio journalists and station owners across the country as the world marks World Radio Day 2026, and renewed calls for the passage of the long-pending Broadcasting Bill.
In a statement issued in Accra on February 13, 2026, and signed by its President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, the Association joined UNESCO and the international community in celebrating the day under the theme: “AI is a Tool, Not a Voice.”
According to the GJA, the theme highlights the growing use of artificial intelligence in broadcasting but reminds media practitioners that technology cannot replace the human voice.
It said while AI can support radio work, credibility and public trust depend on ethics, professionalism and sound editorial judgment.
The Association described radio as the most accessible and inclusive medium in Ghana. It noted that radio continues to inform, educate and unite people in both urban and rural communities.
It said the medium plays a key role in promoting accountability, encouraging public dialogue and sharing important information on health, education, security, the economy and climate change.
The GJA congratulated radio journalists, presenters, producers, editors, technicians and support staff for their dedication and resilience.
It said their work has helped to sustain one of the most vibrant radio industries in Africa and has strengthened Ghana’s democracy.
It commended private radio station owners, including commercial and community broadcasters, for operating despite financial and regulatory challenges.
The Association said many of them face limited revenue, high operational costs and stiff competition, yet they continue to invest in local content, multilingual programming and job creation.
While celebrating the achievements of the sector, the GJA expressed concern about the lack of a comprehensive Broadcasting Law.
It pointed out that the Broadcasting Bill, which has been pending since 2009, is needed to modernise and properly regulate the industry.
The Association urged the Executive and Parliament to treat the passage of the Bill as a national priority.
It said a well-regulated and independent radio sector is essential for democratic growth and national development.
As the country marks World Radio Day, the GJA encouraged media professionals to uphold high standards of integrity, accuracy and responsibility.
It stressed that even as technology evolves, innovation must not weaken the ethical foundation of journalism.
The Association reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, promoting professionalism and pushing for reforms to strengthen broadcasting in Ghana.
By: Jacob Aggrey
