By Seraphine Nyuiemedi
The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli state, Togbe Afede XIV has called for unity among Ghanaians to tackle escalating economic hardships and restore justice and freedom. He emphasized that true development can only occur when citizens have access to basic necessities, jobs, and a good standard of living.
Reflecting on alarming statistics, Togbe Afede noted the stark rise in youth suicides, with 81 young individuals tragically taking their own lives in the first half of 2024 compared to 48 throughout 2023. He cited unemployment and high inflation as contributing factors, highlighting the desperation felt by many young Ghanaians.
“We must prioritize development that addresses the basic necessities of life and provides jobs for our youth,” he urged.
The Agbogbomefia who was speaking at this year’s Asogli yam festival in Ho, the Volta Regional capital also expressed concern over rising lawlessness and violent incidents, such as the lynching of a young prison officer at Kasoa and the tragic deaths of students.
“These are all the results of suffering, of poverty and of consequential lawlessness. But we don’t deserve this as a country. As I said, we are so well endowed by nature, and even more importantly for me, my young and growing population and generally very peace loving people. I believe that we owe our peace to the patience of the Ghanaians, their patience is what has allowed our Fourth Republic to survive. I am very worried for our country, because we find ourselves in a very poor situation,” he said.
In his address, he highlighted the need for freedom and justice as essential principles for national development. “Development is not possible anywhere unless people have freedom and justice,” he asserted. He lamented that many Ghanaians do not enjoy the dividends of peace and resources, describing the economy as having collapsed while citizens suffer from high prices and a lack of opportunities.
Togbe Afede pointed to systemic issues within the country’s leadership, criticizing a culture of corruption and the prioritization of political interests over the needs of the people.
“Corrupt officials are like termites eating at the foundations of our development,” he stated.
He expressed optimism that with the right leadership and a commitment to justice and truth, Ghana could overcome its challenges. As the country approaches elections, Togbe Afede urged Ghanaians to view the upcoming vote as a defending moment for the future. He called on the Electoral Commission to ensure free and fair elections and for citizens, especially the youth, to unite in defending freedom and justice.
“Let us accept that we need each other as we progress as one people and one country,” he said. Togbe Afede concluded by encouraging citizens to be fearless in demanding accountability from their leaders, insisting that leaders must serve the people rather than seek power for personal gain.
“Let’s recognize the pretenders and give them a bitter blow on election day,” he urged, and emphasise the need for a collective effort to build a brighter future for Ghana.
