Is Ghana Worth Dying For?
It is a civic and constitutional duty of every citizen of Ghana to protect and defend the interests of the nation. The National Pledge begins with the solemn words, “I promise on my honour… through the blood and toil of our fathers,” reminding us of the sacrifices made for our freedom.
However, in today’s society, one appears strange if he or she truly lives by these words and strives to uphold the tenets of the pledge. A person who detests corruption is often regarded—even by family members or close associates—as a deviant who is out of touch with the realities of life.
Today, the most respected individuals in society are not those dedicated to the service of Ghana, but rather those who can manipulate the system and distribute money. It has become common knowledge that only a few people genuinely reject illegal wealth. The prevailing belief is that everyone is the same, and that no one questions the source of wealth, but rather what one can offer or give.
It is therefore not surprising that many young people, especially teenagers with a strong desire for quick wealth, are allegedly involved in sophisticated scams, infidelity, money laundering, ritual “doubling,” and armed robbery. Alarmingly, it is suspected that some parents, security officials, and religious leaders either encourage or tacitly support these criminal activities.
On the political front, those we elect to serve the people now appear to be the ones being served. They, together with their associates, control national wealth, and anyone who dares to question their actions is often fiercely attacked and subjected to public ridicule.
I have interacted with some former public office holders who stood firmly for what was right and insisted on due process. Their integrity was admirable, even though many of them are currently going through difficult times as a result of their principled stance.
Across Africa, some emerging and dedicated leaders in countries such as Burkina Faso, Niger, Mali, and Rwanda have demonstrated that Africa is capable of managing its own affairs, in line with Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s vision for the continent. I therefore urge all Ghanaians—especially the President of the Republic, John Dramani Mahama, who in his first year of service has shown signs of positive progress—to lead and inspire us to rededicate ourselves to the growth and development of our motherland.
The writer:
Mohammed Saani Iddrisu
Executive Director
Northern Accelerated Intervention for Development
Email: [email protected]
Contact: 0246171426/0205307833
