Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, a founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has issued a stark warning to Ghanaian leaders. He urges them not to take citizens for granted, referencing the recent violent protests in Kenya.
The violent protests in Kenya erupted over a controversial tax bill, resulting in several deaths and hundreds of injuries as demonstrators stormed the parliament on June 25, 2024. Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe believes Ghana is not immune to similar upheavals if political leaders continue to prioritize their own interests over the needs of the people.
In an interview with 3FM’s Sunrise, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe emphasized that the onus is on political elites, who are elected to serve the people. He criticized the tendency of leaders to focus on personal interests once in power. “It is their duty to make sure that the needs of the people are met. But when they come there, what they should do for the people, they don’t do,” he said.
Drawing parallels between the youth of Ghana and Kenya, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe suggested that frustrations and grievances could lead to similar protests in Ghana. “If we are not careful, what is happening in Kenya now can happen here,” he warned. He reflected on past experiences with protests in Ghana and the potential for unrest if the government fails to address citizens’ concerns.
Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe stressed that the youth in Ghana, like their Kenyan counterparts, are capable of mobilizing and expressing their dissatisfaction through mass protests. The recent violence in Kenya serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of neglecting the needs of the populace. Kenyan police responded to the demonstrations with tear gas, rubber bullets, and live rounds, leading to multiple fatalities and injuries.
Ghanaian leaders are urged to heed this warning and take proactive measures to address the needs of the people. Ensuring that the government is responsive and prioritizes public interests can prevent similar unrest in Ghana.
Source: Ghana Web
