It has been smooth sailing: Y2K office says
Police report incident-free millennium celebrations
Asante Presbytery launches millennium fund
Old and weak GPRTU members to retire
Government will ensure lasting peace - Mahama
Nkrumah wins BBC African of the millennium
Rawlings gives millennium New Year message
Annan says new millennium need not be time for fear, anxiety
Commit resources to enhance dispensation of justice - Registrar
Marginalisation of women unfair - Panellists.
Police strength to increase from 18,00 to 22,000 next year
Prof. Asiedu on sustenance of democracy
51st Annual New Year School calls for continued stability
Wreath laying marks anniversary
Rawlings says government will equip security services
Ghana enters New Millennium with prayers and revelry
Millennium Babies : Man rejects millennium baby boy
Four opposition parties resolve to work together for Election 2000
Asantehene at watch-night service at Wesley
Ghana News Agency unaffected by Millennium Bug
First Battalion of infantry raises millennium flag.
Fomena citizens cry for AGC royalties
Involve citizenry in decision making -Panellists
It has been smooth sailing: Y2K office says
Accra (Greater Accra) 3 Jan. 2000
Ghana has successfully rolled over into the new millennium without any signs of the much feared millennium bug having any negative effect on operations, the National Y2K project office said in Accra on Monday.
At least 72 hours into the new millennium, no Y2K-related problems has been reported to the National project office, which has been monitoring the change over throughout the country.
"Generally, all the utility services as well as all other critical organisations whose operations are run on computer systems have rolled over smoothly into the new century without the anticipated problems.
"We are very satisfied with the results so far," Mr Reginald Arthur, National Project Co-ordinator, told the Ghana News Agency.
He admitted that there were minor hitches during the period but these were not Y2K related.
For example, he said, phone lines in certain areas could not function because Ghana Telecom did not complete its switchover on them before the holidays.
Mr Arthur said reports from the Volta River Authority also indicated that due to the holiday on 31 December most consumers in Sunyani could not buy units of power to recharge their prepaid meters.
This, he said, was not related to the millennium bug and expected the situation to normalise with the resumption of work on Monday.
Mr Arthur reiterated that there were enough tests on all possible computer problems and gave the assurance that the country's systems would continue to run beyond February 29 as 2000 is a leap year.
Computer experts have expressed fears that the day could cause problems related to Y2K.
GRi../
Police report incident-free millennium celebrations
Accra (Greater Accra) 3 Jan 2000
The Police said on Monday that no major incidents had occurred in the capital since the transition to 2000.
Mr Cephas Kwashivie Agbelie, Greater Accra Regional Police Commander, and his deputy, Mr P.M. Ekenlebie, told the Ghana News Agency in an interview that "everything was peaceful and calm".
There were "no major incidents so far to cause any alarm".
Mr Ekenlebie said: "when I went on patrol with my boss during and after midnight on New Year's day, everything was peaceful. There has been no breach of the peace".
Mr Agbelie said "Ghana entering the new millennium in a such a peaceful atmosphere is a manifestation of God's love".
"So far, I have not received any reports on any major incident," he said, adding: "we are still monitoring the situation".
He prayed that the peaceful atmosphere that ushered in the New Year "will permeate throughout the year and that the public will co-operate with the police to minimise criminal activities in the country".
Mr Mustapha Garba, Commander of the Motor Traffic and Transport Unit (MTTU) of the Ghana Police Service, said so far, there have not been any major accidents in Accra except a head-on collision at Kawokudi Junction, which registered no deaths or injuries.
GRi../
Ho Township projects take off
Ho (Volta Region) 3 Jan 2000
Work is progressing steadily on the construction of ten doctors' bungalows for the new Volta Regional Hospital at Ho.
Funds are being sought for the building of blocks of flats for nurses and other health workers at the hospital.
Alhaji Seidu Iddi, Volta Regional Minister, made this known at the outdooring on Sunday of six chiefs including two queenmothers.
The chiefs are Togbe Kludzexe III, Togbe Agblatsu III and Togbe Awude III.
The rest are Mama Agblatsu III, Mama Awude II and Tsiami Tse II.
The new chiefs and queenmothers are from Ho Bankoe who will be responsible for the performance of customary rites in Ho.
Alhaji Iddi said rehabilitation of some streets in Ho would start this January while others would be awarded during the course of the year.
The minister said the government looks up to the chiefs to provide the impetus for peace and development.
Captain George Nfodjo (rtd), Ho District Chief Executive, said Ho would benefit from 240 streetlights this year.
He pledged his co-operation with the chiefs and urged them to assist the District Assembly by mobilising the people to pay their basic rates.
GRi../
Asante Presbytery launches millennium fund
Kumasi (Ashanti Region) 3 Jan 2000
The Reverend Dr. Kofi Effah-Ababio, Ashanti Presbytery Chairman of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, has called on the government, parliamentarians and chiefs to be steadfast in all their endeavours this year to push the country forward.
"The socio-economic problems in Ghana as elsewhere cannot be solved only through the knowledge of man. All stakeholders in the country's development should be steadfast in the fear of God because it is only God's will which will save the country."
Rev. Dr. Effah-Ababio was launching the Asante Presbytery Millennium Fund at Ramseyer Memorial Church in Kumasi on Sunday.
The Church instituted the three billion-cedi fund this year for its evangelism work and to improve on educational, agricultural and health facilities of the Church.
He noted that most of the activities of those institutions had been hampered by lack of resources, adding that when enough funds are available, the Church can instil the proverbial Presbyterian discipline, which has eluded all sectors of the economy for some time now.
Mr Paul Amaning Birikorang, Asante Presbytery Co-ordinator of the fund, urged the members to contribute voluntarily to support the enormous financial obligations of the Church.
GRi../
Old and weak GPRTU members to retire
Mankessim (Central Region) 3 Jan. 2000
Old and weak members of the Central Regional branch of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), operating at the lorry parks are to be retired soon.
Mr. Robert Kwesi Eshun, regional Chairman, addressing an end of year meeting of the Mankessim No One branch of the union at Mankessim, said indiscipline members at the stations would also lose their membership as part of measures, to streamline the activities of the union in the region The meeting took stock of the performance of the union and mapped strategies to render more dedicated service in the New Year.
Mr Eshun who is also the Chairman of the branch said workers must strive in the New Year to improve conditions of living and expressed the hope that drivers would not be found wanting.
"We must regard the safety and comfort of passengers as paramount in our operations," he said adding that member of the union should respect road traffic regulations.
He called on station masters to ensure that only road worthy vehicles operate in the region to avoid accidents.
The Regional Chairman warned that the union would not defend any driver found flouting road traffic regulations and appealed to vehicle owners to ensure regular maintenance
GRi../
Anwomaso get new Nkosuohene
Anwomaso (Ashanti Region) 3 Jan. 2000
Mr. Kwaku Kumah, 38-year-old mechanic at the Kumasi University of Science and Technology (UST), has been installed as the new Nkosuohene for Anwomaso, near Kumasi.
The Nkosuohene, whose stool name is Nana Kwaku Siaw, is an agriculturist. He won the best Kumasi Metropolitan farmer' award in 1998.
Swearing the oath of allegiance to the Anwomasohene, Nana Osei Boah II at his palace at Anwomaso on Saturday, the Nkosuohene pledged to work in consultation with the chief, elders and the youth at all times.
Nana Siaw said his first concern would be to mobilise the youth to embark on self-help development projects to give the town a face-lift.
Nana Osei Boah advised the Nkosuohene to eschew arrogance.
GRi../
Government will ensure lasting peace - Mahama
Apirede-Akuapem (Eastern Region) 3 Jan. 2000
Mr. John Mahama, Minister of Communication, has said the government will ensure that the various authorities concerned with the adjudication of the Akwapim chieftaincy dispute speed up their work to ensure lasting peace in the area.
The Minister gave the assurance at a durbar to climax the celebration of this year's annual Odwira festival of the chiefs and people of Apirede-Akwapim in the Akwapim North District on Saturday.
Mr. Mahama explained that though the Constitution restrains the government from interfering in chieftaincy issues, the government, at the same time, has the responsibility of ensuring security, law and order and would therefore not look on for chieftaincy issues to degenerate into conflicts to threaten the security of the country.
He said his ministry is developing a national telecommunication plan under which telephone lines would be extended to all the towns and villages in the Akwapim area.
He said as from this year, the government would pursue a "human-centred" development programme, which would ensure that development projects have components to improve the standard of living of the beneficiary communities.
He called on all to help consolidate national unity and integration and to remember that "first and foremost, we are Ghanaians before anything else".
Mr. Alex Akuffo, a Deputy Minister of Works and Housing, assured that the Apirede-Trem Junction road would be awarded on contract for construction this year.
He said a Spanish government loan for the solution of the Akwapim water problem had reached the Cabinet stage and would soon be sent to Parliament for final approval for the take off of the project.
Mr. Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, Deputy Eastern Regional Minister, called on the chiefs and opinion leaders to support the National Population and Housing Census scheduled for March this year.
GRi../
Nkrumah wins BBC African of the millennium
Accra (Greater Accra) 3 January 2000
Ghana's first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah was on Friday declared the African of the millennium in a British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) African Service programme monitored in Accra.
The contest featured many African personalities from walks of life including statesmen, politicians, scientists, athletes and musicians.
Among the personalities nominated for the award by BBC African Service listeners were former Presidents Nelson Mandela of South Africa, Gamel Nasser of Egypt and Liberian football star, Opon Weah.
Dr Nkrumah led Ghana to independence in 1957, to signal the beginning of the liberation of Africa from colonialism.
He was a founding father of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU)) and the Non-Aligned Movement.
GRi../
Rawlings gives millennium New Year message
Accra (Greater Accra) 3 Jan. 2000
The President, Flight-Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, has expressed the belief that with God's guidance, Ghanaians would witness unprecedented peace and prosperity in the new millennium.
In a message on Saturday to mark the New Year and the new millennium, he said that after nearly half a century of independence, the foundation has been laid for the economic and political stability of the country.
President Rawlings noted that these objectives could only be achieved if all stakeholders, both nationals and non-Ghanaians, continue to unite, work hard and allow the lessons of the nation's political and economic experience to guide them.
On behalf of the government, himself and his family, he wished Ghanaians a happy and prosperous New Year.
GRi../
Annan says new millennium need not be time for fear, anxiety
Accra (Greater Accra) 3 January 2000
The UN Secretary-General, Mr Kofi Annan, on Thursday said the new millennium need not be a time of fear or anxiety.
"As we move into a new millennium, many of us have much to be thankful for because the world is at peace and most of us are better educated than our parents and grandparents and expect to live longer lives with greater freedom and a wide range of choices."
In a video message for the new millennium, Mr. Annan said fears being expressed about the new era all over the world, are unfounded and unnecessary.
He added, however, that the new century brings hope but can also bring new dangers or old ones in a new and alarming form and that even the strongest states acting alone, may not be able to protect their citizens against any odds.
"That is why the UN is working for the people to preserve peace, outlaw weapons that kill and maim indiscriminately.
"We are working together to make human rights a reality for everyone and give all human beings real choices in life to make decisions that affect their own lives.
"If we work together and have faith in our own abilities, it can be a time of hope and opportunity."
GRi../
Commit resources to enhance dispensation of justice - Registrar
Kuntanase (Ashanti Region) 3 January 2000
An appeal has been made to district assemblies to demonstrate greater concern for the dispensation of justice in their areas by committing more resources towards the provision of adequate buildings for the Judicial Service.
Nana Onsroga Marfo-Hene, registrar of the Bosomtwe- Atwima-Kwanwoma Community Tribunal, who made the appeal, observed that it is crucial for assemblies to appreciate that their ability to attain their developmental goals depends largely on the creation of an environment devoid of criminality and unrest.
Nana Marfo-Hene made the appeal at an end-of-year get-together organised by the tribunal for its staff at Kuntanase on Thursday.
The occasion was also to honour two out-going panel members of the tribunal, Mr P. K. Adarkwah and Nana Yaw Marfoh, who have completed their four-year tenure of office.
Nana Marfo-Hene explained that apart from ensuring justice and peaceful atmosphere for the functioning of the assemblies and the various communities, the tribunals also serve as major source of revenue for the assemblies and, therefore, deserve their full support.
Alhaji Kofi Musah Nuamah, Chairman of the tribunal, advised panel members not to see their membership as an avenue to amass wealth but rather as a unique opportunity to render dedicated and fair service to the country.
He, therefore, cautioned them to guard against any temptation in the form of gifts and monetary offers that might turn out to influence them in the dispensation of justice.
GRi../
Marginalisation of women unfair - Panellists.
Winneba (Central Region) 3 Jan. 2000
Professor S. A. Amoah, Acting Director-General of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), has called for the setting up of a Women-in-Politics Fund by the political parties to finance the electioneering campaign of women.
He said that lack of financing is one of the reasons discouraging women from participating in politics and to aspire to higher positions.
Prof. Amoah was contributing to a panel discussion on "Women in Politics" at the Annual New Year School at Winneba on Saturday.
On the general theme, "Women in Politics," over 300 people are attending.
He further suggested that monies for Beauty Contests should be channelled into the fund for leadership training programmes for women to make them more assertive and to go into politics.
Prof. Amoah further suggested that in order to get more women to rise to higher positions in politics, girls should be groomed in school and at the family level to know that they are not subservient to boys.
He also said women's participation in political life of the nation lies with them and there is the need for them to review their negative perceptions about politics, adding that largely it is not men depriving them of participation but their negative attitude.
He attributed some of their drawbacks as lack of good educational background, which makes them fear to be intimidated by males, unfair cultural limitations, the problem of sexual division of labour, and negative image created for courageous women who have entered politics.
Ms Christine Churcher, MP for Cape Coast, charged women to take active part in local politics such as presenting themselves for elections at the organisational and district levels without fear of insults and heckles.
"When a woman gets up in parliament she is booed and heckled but that is part of life but needs courage and as late starters we should know what to avoid".
Ms Churcher said there is the need for women's involvement in decision making to prevent policies, which impoverish "our husbands and bring untold hardship to families".
Ms Margaret Clarke Kweisie, Minister of State and MP for Gan South said that constraints against women include lack of appropriate education and lack of support from husbands.
She also attributed some of the constraints to the few numbers of women fielded by political parties and age constraints since women above 50 are not given opportunities.
GRi./
Police strength to increase from 18,00 to 22,000 next year
Winneba (Central Region) 3 January 2000
The strength of the Ghana Police Service would be increased to 22,000 from the present 18,000, next year, Mr Peter Nanfuri, Inspector General of Police announced in Winneba on Thursday.
He was answering questions during a panel discussion on "Law, Order and Human Rights" at the annual New Year School of the Institute of Adult Education, University of Ghana, Legon.
The Service would soon take delivery of equipment from South Africa including water tankers and rubber bullets.
Mr Nanfuri said it is wrong for a Policeman to use his office to intimidate anyone over debt collection or other personal gains, adding that such conduct could lead to outright dismissal.
"It is high time the Police understood that the law is meant to protect and not to harass citizens", he said, adding that they should be seen to be fair to all manner of people.
The IGP called for public co-operation and said the Police administration is determined to flush out all questionable characters to save the image of the Service.
The conduct of some service personnel leaves much to be desired and said Ghanaians should muster courage to report such people to the Police Administration.
Mr Nanfuri said no Policeman has a right to demand bribe or compel complainants to provide transport to go and arrest a suspect or request for stationary to write statements.
He said, in the absence of Police vehicles a Policeman may request for assistance politely if in his view it could facilitate quick arrest.
Mr Ebow Quarshie, President of the Ghana Bar Association, reiterated the call by the association for the abolition of the criminal libel law, saying that there are a lot of laws in the statutes, which could take care of libel cases.
He said the law could kill freedom of speech and expression, which is vital for the nurturing of democracy.
Mrs Henrietta Mensah-Bonsu, Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Law, University of Ghana, said that democracy is a collective affair and called on Ghanaians to contribute to sustain it.
GRi../
Prof. Asiedu on sustenance of democracy
Winneba (Central Region) 3 Jan. 2000
Professor Kobina Asiedu, Director of the Institute of Adult Education, on Sunday called for continued dialogue among political parties to ensure the sustenance of democratic culture.
"It is only through this that we can build consensus on issues that divide the people".
Prof. Asiedu was delivering the closing address for the 51st New Year School on the theme "Consolidating democracy in Ghana: the year 2000 elections and beyond" at Winneba.
He advised participants not to keep the knowledge acquired at the school to themselves but to discuss it with people in the communities.
"Looking at the contemporary landscape of the African continent, it appears that Ghana is one of the few countries which give hope to the dream that the African is capable of taking his destiny in his own hands."
Prof. Asiedu said nurturing or sustaining democracy in Ghana has been emphasised by all speakers as a collective responsibility, adding that although the responsibilities are not the same, the government needs to show greater openness and to be more accountable.
Political parties, Prof. Asiedu said, must educate their followers to be tolerant of opposing views while the electorate should exercise their rights to choose in a responsible manner.
Prof. Asiedu stated: "we all need to behave in a salutary manner so that it will be unnecessary for somebody to come from somewhere to declare our elections free and fair".
He stressed the need to sustain the new year school in view of the important role it plays in finding solutions to some pertinent national issues.
On funding, Prof. Asiedu said this had been difficult and the school could not continue to rely on the benevolence of the government to keep it going.
He suggested that the school must be made self-financing with participants paying a higher fee.
"Such a move will exclude our core of self-sponsoring participants most of whom have retired and cannot afford to pay economic fees. We have to consider sponsorship seriously."
Prof. Asiedu called for suggestions which will ensure that the new year school continues uninterrupted so that those who wish to participate are not denied the chance.
GR i../
51st Annual New Year School calls for continued stability
Winneba (Central Region) 3 Jan. '2000
The 51st New Year School ended at Winneba on Sunday with a resolution calling on Ghanaians to protect the nation from chaos by ensuring that political stability is perpetually sustained.
This can be attained by ensuring that this year's presidential and parliamentary elections proceed smoothly while campaign messages should focus on issues rather than personalities and must devoid of insults, animosity and mudslinging.
The theme of the school was "Consolidating Democracy in Ghana: the year 2000 Elections and Beyond".
It attracted more than 300 participants drawn from all over the country.
The school treated 11 sub-themes including "Political Parties and national integration", "The national economy and democratic sustenance", "Education for participatory democracy", "Enhancing Women's participation in Politics", "Organised labour in a changing environment" and the "Mass media and the 2000 elections".
The participants said political parties' manifestos should be published far ahead of the general elections to enable the electorate to study them and make informed decisions.
The participants said there should be no limitations on private funding of political parties and that adequate training should be given to agents of political parties.
Inter-party advisory committees (IPAC) must be replicated at the regional and district levels to ensure better understanding and collaboration among political groups.
They further suggested the establishment of election courts to deal expeditiously with cases arising from the elections, adding that the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) and the Electoral Commissioner be provided with adequate resources and funding to enhance their work.
Political party advertisements must be given equal treatment by both electronic and print media.
Furthermore, they called for adequate facilities for media practitioners but cautioned them against taking sides in their reportage.
The participants also supported the idea that a special fund be created to support women who want to go into politics.
Girl-child education must be encouraged whereas pregnant girls must be made to continue school after delivery.
The school commended the government for instituting the best farmer and teacher awards and suggested that the scheme must be extended to cover all sectors of the economy.
The school called for an increase in basic rates from 200 cedis to 1,000 cedis while the district assemblies were urged to institute training schemes to upgrade the skills of their staff.
Traditional values, they said, should be maintained and civic, religious, moral education and other allied subjects be taught at all levels of education to inject in the youth a high sense of respect for authority, hard work, honesty, tolerance and discipline.
The participants called for the establishment of an HIV/AIDS foundation to support AIDS patients in addition to an action plan to reduce the spread of the disease.
They urged the government to ensure regular and transparent consultations with organised labour to ensure industrial harmony and progress.
Parliament should also ensure that the new labour regulation provides adequate protection for workers' rights.
GRi../
Wreath laying marks anniversary
Takoradi (Western Region) 3 January 2000
A Wreath-Laying ceremony to mark the 18th anniversary of the 31st December Revolution at the Takoradi Cenotaph on Friday.
In attendance was a contingent of the Ghana Army, Navy, Airforce, Police Service, Prison Service, Ghana National Fire Service and the Custom, Excise and Preventive Service (CEPS).
Mrs Esther Lily Nkansah, Western Regional Minister, laid a wreath on behalf of the government and people of Ghana, while Commodore Joe Adoko, Two Garrison
Commander and officer in-charge of the Western Naval Command, laid one on behalf of the security agencies.
Odeneho Gyapong Ababio, President of the Western Region House of Chiefs laid one on behalf of the chiefs and people of the region.
Mr Ato Neizer, Western Regional Deputy Organiser of the Association of the Committee for the Defence of the Revolution (ACDR), also laid one on behalf of the progressive Voluntary Organisations (PVOs).
Prayers were offered for the President, Vice-President and the government and people of Ghana. The Reverend (Captain) J. K. Appiah conducted the service.
GRi../
Rawlings says government will equip security services
Accra (Greater Accra) 3 Jan. 2000
President Jerry John Rawlings on Friday, said the government would provide additional logistics to the security services in their efforts to combat crime.
In addition to this, personnel of the law enforcement agencies would have to adopt more innovative methods as well as bring new and progressive attitudes to bear in the performance of their duties.
The President was addressing members of the security services at El-Wak Stadium in Accra, to mark the 18th anniversary of the December 31st Revolution.
They converged at the stadium after a route march and a wreath-laying ceremony at the Revolution Square.
President Rawlings said in stemming the crime wave "Ghana cannot and will not provide shelter or sanctuary to criminal elements from elsewhere, who want to take undue advantage of our hospitable environment to engage in all manner of criminal activities bringing grief to many Ghanaians."
He said ECOWAS member-countries are unanimous in their condemnation of the activities of criminals, who operate across the borders and whose activities undermine the essence of sub-regional economic integration.
President Rawlings commended the security services for providing the enabling climate of peace and stability that has made possible the modest but important socio-economic and political gains.
"I know that you have been able to achieve these in the face of many difficulties, some of which we have been able to address. But more still remains to be done."
Commenting on last week's coup d'etat in Cote d'Ivoire, he said it was regrettable.
"But we must also recognise that events could have degenerated into a far worse scenario if the military had not stepped in."
The President said it was a credit to the people that there was no bloodshed.
"I congratulate them for staging a bloodless coup. It could have been worse as happened elsewhere.
"We must allow time to assess even an unconstitutional change in order to determine whether there are redeeming features that would tamper our reaction towards them."
President Rawlings said events in Cote d'Ivoire are a lesson, which should not be lost on civilian politicians in and outside the sub-region.
President Rawlings said the responsibility of maintaining stability rests with those in and outside government.
He said actions that seek to provoke the military or promote an atmosphere of public disorder could lead to unpredictable consequences.
"The nurturing of our democracy demands a more careful and well-considered conduct on the part of all of us," President Rawlings
GRi../
Nkrumah wins BBC African of the millennium
Accra (Greater Accra) 3 January 2000
Ghana's first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah was on Friday declared the African of the millennium in a British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) African Service programme monitored in Accra.
The contest featured many African personalities from walks of life including statesmen, politicians, scientists, athletes and musicians.
Among the personalities nominated for the award by BBC African Service listeners were former Presidents Nelson Mandela of South Africa, Gamel Nasser of Egypt and Liberian football star, Opon Weah.
Dr Nkrumah led Ghana to independence in 1957, to signal the beginning of the liberation of Africa from colonialism.
He was a founding father of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU)) and the Non-Aligned Movement.
GRi../
Rawlings gives millennium New Year message
Accra (Greater Accra) 3 Jan. 2000
The President, Flight-Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, has expressed the belief that with God's guidance, Ghanaians would witness unprecedented peace and prosperity in the new millennium.
In a message on Saturday to mark the New Year and the new millennium, he said that after nearly half a century of independence, the foundation has been laid for the economic and political stability of the country.
President Rawlings noted that these objectives could only be achieved if all stakeholders, both nationals and non-Ghanaians, continue to unite, work hard and allow the lessons of the nation's political and economic experience to guide them.
On behalf of the government, himself and his family, he wished Ghanaians a happy and prosperous New Year.
GRi../
Annan says new millennium need not be time for fear, anxiety
Accra (Greater Accra) 3 January 2000
The UN Secretary-General, Mr Kofi Annan, on Thursday said the new millennium need not be a time of fear or anxiety.
"As we move into a new millennium, many of us have much to be thankful for because the world is at peace and most of us are better educated than our parents and grandparents and expect to live longer lives with greater freedom and a wide range of choices."
In a video message for the new millennium, Mr. Annan said fears being expressed about the new era all over the world, are unfounded and unnecessary.
He added, however, that the new century brings hope but can also bring new dangers or old ones in a new and alarming form and that even the strongest states acting alone, may not be able to protect their citizens against any odds.
"That is why the UN is working for the people to preserve peace, outlaw weapons that kill and maim indiscriminately.
"We are working together to make human rights a reality for everyone and give all human beings real choices in life to make decisions that affect their own lives.
"If we work together and have faith in our own abilities, it can be a time of hope and opportunity."
GRi../
Commit resources to enhance dispensation of justice - Registrar
Kuntanase (Ashanti Region) 3 January 2000
An appeal has been made to district assemblies to demonstrate greater concern for the dispensation of justice in their areas by committing more resources towards the provision of adequate buildings for the Judicial Service.
Nana Onsroga Marfo-Hene, registrar of the Bosomtwe- Atwima-Kwanwoma Community Tribunal, who made the appeal, observed that it is crucial for assemblies to appreciate that their ability to attain their developmental goals depends largely on the creation of an environment devoid of criminality and unrest.
Nana Marfo-Hene made the appeal at an end-of-year get-together organised by the tribunal for its staff at Kuntanase on Thursday.
The occasion was also to honour two out-going panel members of the tribunal, Mr P. K. Adarkwah and Nana Yaw Marfoh, who have completed their four-year tenure of office.
Nana Marfo-Hene explained that apart from ensuring justice and peaceful atmosphere for the functioning of the assemblies and the various communities, the tribunals also serve as major source of revenue for the assemblies and, therefore, deserve their full support.
Alhaji Kofi Musah Nuamah, Chairman of the tribunal, advised panel members not to see their membership as an avenue to amass wealth but rather as a unique opportunity to render dedicated and fair service to the country.
He, therefore, cautioned them to guard against any temptation in the form of gifts and monetary offers that might turn out to influence them in the dispensation of justice.
GRi../
Marginalisation of women unfair - Panellists.
Winneba (Central Region) 3 Jan. 2000
Professor S. A. Amoah, Acting Director-General of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), has called for the setting up of a Women-in-Politics Fund by the political parties to finance the electioneering campaign of women.
He said that lack of financing is one of the reasons discouraging women from participating in politics and to aspire to higher positions.
Prof. Amoah was contributing to a panel discussion on "Women in Politics" at the Annual New Year School at Winneba on Saturday.
On the general theme, "Women in Politics," over 300 people are attending.
He further suggested that monies for Beauty Contests should be channelled into the fund for leadership training programmes for women to make them more assertive and to go into politics.
Prof. Amoah further suggested that in order to get more women to rise to higher positions in politics, girls should be groomed in school and at the family level to know that they are not subservient to boys.
He also said women's participation in political life of the nation lies with them and there is the need for them to review their negative perceptions about politics, adding that largely it is not men depriving them of participation but their negative attitude.
He attributed some of their drawbacks as lack of good educational background, which makes them fear to be intimidated by males, unfair cultural limitations, the problem of sexual division of labour, and negative image created for courageous women who have entered politics.
Ms Christine Churcher, MP for Cape Coast, charged women to take active part in local politics such as presenting themselves for elections at the organisational and district levels without fear of insults and heckles.
"When a woman gets up in parliament she is booed and heckled but that is part of life but needs courage and as late starters we should know what to avoid".
Ms Churcher said there is the need for women's involvement in decision making to prevent policies, which impoverish "our husbands and bring untold hardship to families".
Ms Margaret Clarke Kweisie, Minister of State and MP for Gan South said that constraints against women include lack of appropriate education and lack of support from husbands.
She also attributed some of the constraints to the few numbers of women fielded by political parties and age constraints since women above 50 are not given opportunities.
GRi./
Police strength to increase from 18,00 to 22,000 next year
Winneba (Central Region) 3 January 2000
The strength of the Ghana Police Service would be increased to 22,000 from the present 18,000, next year, Mr Peter Nanfuri, Inspector General of Police announced in Winneba on Thursday.
He was answering questions during a panel discussion on "Law, Order and Human Rights" at the annual New Year School of the Institute of Adult Education, University of Ghana, Legon.
The Service would soon take delivery of equipment from South Africa including water tankers and rubber bullets.
Mr Nanfuri said it is wrong for a Policeman to use his office to intimidate anyone over debt collection or other personal gains, adding that such conduct could lead to outright dismissal.
"It is high time the Police understood that the law is meant to protect and not to harass citizens", he said, adding that they should be seen to be fair to all manner of people.
The IGP called for public co-operation and said the Police administration is determined to flush out all questionable characters to save the image of the Service.
The conduct of some service personnel leaves much to be desired and said Ghanaians should muster courage to report such people to the Police Administration.
Mr Nanfuri said no Policeman has a right to demand bribe or compel complainants to provide transport to go and arrest a suspect or request for stationary to write statements.
He said, in the absence of Police vehicles a Policeman may request for assistance politely if in his view it could facilitate quick arrest.
Mr Ebow Quarshie, President of the Ghana Bar Association, reiterated the call by the association for the abolition of the criminal libel law, saying that there are a lot of laws in the statutes, which could take care of libel cases.
He said the law could kill freedom of speech and expression, which is vital for the nurturing of democracy.
Mrs Henrietta Mensah-Bonsu, Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Law, University of Ghana, said that democracy is a collective affair and called on Ghanaians to contribute to sustain it.
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Prof. Asiedu on sustenance of democracy
Winneba (Central Region) 3 Jan. 2000
Professor Kobina Asiedu, Director of the Institute of Adult Education, on Sunday called for continued dialogue among political parties to ensure the sustenance of democratic culture.
"It is only through this that we can build consensus on issues that divide the people".
Prof. Asiedu was delivering the closing address for the 51st New Year School on the theme "Consolidating democracy in Ghana: the year 2000 elections and beyond" at Winneba.
He advised participants not to keep the knowledge acquired at the school to themselves but to discuss it with people in the communities.
"Looking at the contemporary landscape of the African continent, it appears that Ghana is one of the few countries which give hope to the dream that the African is capable of taking his destiny in his own hands."
Prof. Asiedu said nurturing or sustaining democracy in Ghana has been emphasised by all speakers as a collective responsibility, adding that although the responsibilities are not the same, the government needs to show greater openness and to be more accountable.
Political parties, Prof. Asiedu said, must educate their followers to be tolerant of opposing views while the electorate should exercise their rights to choose in a responsible manner.
Prof. Asiedu stated: "we all need to behave in a salutary manner so that it will be unnecessary for somebody to come from somewhere to declare our elections free and fair".
He stressed the need to sustain the new year school in view of the important role it plays in finding solutions to some pertinent national issues.
On funding, Prof. Asiedu said this had been difficult and the school could not continue to rely on the benevolence of the government to keep it going.
He suggested that the school must be made self-financing with participants paying a higher fee.
"Such a move will exclude our core of self-sponsoring participants most of whom have retired and cannot afford to pay economic fees. We have to consider sponsorship seriously."
Prof. Asiedu called for suggestions which will ensure that the new year school continues uninterrupted so that those who wish to participate are not denied the chance.
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51st Annual New Year School calls for continued stability
Winneba (Central Region) 3 Jan. '2000
The 51st New Year School ended at Winneba on Sunday with a resolution calling on Ghanaians to protect the nation from chaos by ensuring that political stability is perpetually sustained.
This can be attained by ensuring that this year's presidential and parliamentary elections proceed smoothly while campaign messages should focus on issues rather than personalities and must devoid of insults, animosity and mudslinging.
The theme of the school was "Consolidating Democracy in Ghana: the year 2000 Elections and Beyond".
It attracted more than 300 participants drawn from all over the country.
The school treated 11 sub-themes including "Political Parties and national integration", "The national economy and democratic sustenance", "Education for participatory democracy", "Enhancing Women's participation in Politics", "Organised labour in a changing environment" and the "Mass media and the 2000 elections".
The participants said political parties' manifestos should be published far ahead of the general elections to enable the electorate to study them and make informed decisions.
The participants said there should be no limitations on private funding of political parties and that adequate training should be given to agents of political parties.
Inter-party advisory committees (IPAC) must be replicated at the regional and district levels to ensure better understanding and collaboration among political groups.
They further suggested the establishment of election courts to deal expeditiously with cases arising from the elections, adding that the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) and the Electoral Commissioner be provided with adequate resources and funding to enhance their work.
Political party advertisements must be given equal treatment by both electronic and print media.
Furthermore, they called for adequate facilities for media practitioners but cautioned them against taking sides in their reportage.
The participants also supported the idea that a special fund be created to support women who want to go into politics.
Girl-child education must be encouraged whereas pregnant girls must be made to continue school after delivery.
The school commended the government for instituting the best farmer and teacher awards and suggested that the scheme must be extended to cover all sectors of the economy.
The school called for an increase in basic rates from 200 cedis to 1,000 cedis while the district assemblies were urged to institute training schemes to upgrade the skills of their staff.
Traditional values, they said, should be maintained and civic, religious, moral education and other allied subjects be taught at all levels of education to inject in the youth a high sense of respect for authority, hard work, honesty, tolerance and discipline.
The participants called for the establishment of an HIV/AIDS foundation to support AIDS patients in addition to an action plan to reduce the spread of the disease.
They urged the government to ensure regular and transparent consultations with organised labour to ensure industrial harmony and progress.
Parliament should also ensure that the new labour regulation provides adequate protection for workers' rights.
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Wreath laying marks anniversary
Takoradi (Western Region) 3 January 2000
A Wreath-Laying ceremony to mark the 18th anniversary of the 31st December Revolution at the Takoradi Cenotaph on Friday.
In attendance was a contingent of the Ghana Army, Navy, Airforce, Police Service, Prison Service, Ghana National Fire Service and the Custom, Excise and Preventive Service (CEPS).
Mrs Esther Lily Nkansah, Western Regional Minister, laid a wreath on behalf of the government and people of Ghana, while Commodore Joe Adoko, Two Garrison
Commander and officer in-charge of the Western Naval Command, laid one on behalf of the security agencies.
Odeneho Gyapong Ababio, President of the Western Region House of Chiefs laid one on behalf of the chiefs and people of the region.
Mr Ato Neizer, Western Regional Deputy Organiser of the Association of the Committee for the Defence of the Revolution (ACDR), also laid one on behalf of the progressive Voluntary Organisations (PVOs).
Prayers were offered for the President, Vice-President and the government and people of Ghana. The Reverend (Captain) J. K. Appiah conducted the service.
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Rawlings says government will equip security services
Accra (Greater Accra) 3 Jan. 2000
President Jerry John Rawlings on Friday, said the government would provide additional logistics to the security services in their efforts to combat crime.
In addition to this, personnel of the law enforcement agencies would have to adopt more innovative methods as well as bring new and progressive attitudes to bear in the performance of their duties.
The President was addressing members of the security services at El-Wak Stadium in Accra, to mark the 18th anniversary of the December 31st Revolution.
They converged at the stadium after a route march and a wreath-laying ceremony at the Revolution Square.
President Rawlings said in stemming the crime wave "Ghana cannot and will not provide shelter or sanctuary to criminal elements from elsewhere, who want to take undue advantage of our hospitable environment to engage in all manner of criminal activities bringing grief to many Ghanaians."
He said ECOWAS member-countries are unanimous in their condemnation of the activities of criminals, who operate across the borders and whose activities undermine the essence of sub-regional economic integration.
President Rawlings commended the security services for providing the enabling climate of peace and stability that has made possible the modest but important socio-economic and political gains.
"I know that you have been able to achieve these in the face of many difficulties, some of which we have been able to address. But more still remains to be done."
Commenting on last week's coup d'etat in Cote d'Ivoire, he said it was regrettable.
"But we must also recognise that events could have degenerated into a far worse scenario if the military had not stepped in."
The President said it was a credit to the people that there was no bloodshed.
"I congratulate them for staging a bloodless coup. It could have been worse as happened elsewhere.
"We must allow time to assess even an unconstitutional change in order to determine whether there are redeeming features that would tamper our reaction towards them."
President Rawlings said events in Cote d'Ivoire are a lesson, which should not be lost on civilian politicians in and outside the sub-region.
President Rawlings said the responsibility of maintaining stability rests with those in and outside government.
He said actions that seek to provoke the military or promote an atmosphere of public disorder could lead to unpredictable consequences.
"The nurturing of our democracy demands a more careful and well-considered conduct on the part of all of us," President Rawlings
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