World leaders congratulate Ghana on 43rd Independence anniversary
Accra (Greater Accra) 7 March 2000
The National Reform Movement (NRM) on Saturday called on Ghanaians to be vigilant to ensure that the country's leaders understand and work for a collective benefit.
In a statement issued in Accra to commemorate the 43rd anniversary celebration of Ghana's Independence, the party said that "when ordinary Ghanaians become politically vocal, the debate and voting in Parliament will begin to reflect on real public priorities.
"If Ghanaians want accountability they must be willing to organise, educate themselves and agitate constructively day after day".
The NRM called on Ghanaians to assert a continuing control over the government, and this "will go a long way to ensure checks and balances in our constitution".
Ethnic, religious, generational and other divisions have become increasing tense and violent, threatening our basic national integrity, the party noted.
NRM said that the struggle against inequality in the country required a united front, and progressive people must be ready to demonstrate against gender violence and all forms of discrimination.
The party called on workers to defend their rights to ensure transparency in the disposal of public assets.
"In building this solidarity against inequality and ensuring freedom and justice, we will overcome the false division that threatens national stability.
This is the path to true national reconciliation".
GRi../
Accra (Greater Accra) 7 Mar. 2000
The West African Media Network (WAMNET) last night called on media women to recognise the achievements of female role models in society.
WAMNET said this recognition should not only be given to professional women, but also for "ordinary women who have made it in life through selling on the streets".
The women's organisation made the call at a round-table discussion with chief executives of media houses in Accra as part of activities to mark this year's International Women's Day, which focuses on women in the media.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has declared the day, which falls on 8 March, as the day that "women make the news".
The world body has called on media houses to put women in charge of editorial decision-making on that day.
Sponsored by Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES), the discussion brought together senior media women and executives of media houses to share information and ideas on how to enhance the participation of women in decision-making, and media coverage of women.
WAMNET said the day must be sustained so that women who feel shy to take up decision-making positions would get away from it.
Mrs Rebecca Adotey, a deputy Minister of the Ministry of Communications, who was the guest speaker called on media women to build up confidence in the cause of their profession.
She called on the media chief executives to look at capabilities and not gender when managerial positions are to be filled.
Ms Sarah Akrofi-Quarcoo, secretary-general of WAMNET Ghana said self- confidence alone is not enough. "For us to make an impact, it is important to support each other.
"When women are put in command, we must rally behind them, as at the end of the day, we would be building a role model".
Mr. Yaw Boadu-Ayeboafo, Executive Secretary, National Media Commission advised media women to be more committed to the profession and not to see it as a spring board to later branch off to other areas.
He hoped that the pledges and slogans made at the meeting would be sustained to ensure that more female journalists would be encouraged to stay longer on the job to attain managerial positions.
GRi../
Accra (Greater Accra) 7 March 2000
President Bill Clinton of the United States on Sunday sent a message of congratulations to President Jerry John Rawlings on Ghana's 43rd Independence Anniversary, which fell on 6 March.
The message read: "the long history of a strong and close relationship between the US and Ghana carries great promise as we move forward in this new millennium".
"As we reflect on the accomplishments, which signify the strength of our relationship, the people of the US join me in wishing you and all Ghanaians every success, now and in the future."
The Heads of State of Germany, China, Australia, Pakistan, Lebanon, Palestine and Algeria as well as the United Nations Secretary-General, Mr Kofi Annan, sent similar messages.
Mr Kofi Annan called for renewed efforts to end poverty and conflicts in the world.
"As we look to the years ahead, let us remember that we all must work together not only to bring an end to war but also to eradicate famine, poverty and pestilence.
"For the sake of future generations, let us strive to make the new millennium the era of global peace. In this mission, it is heartening to know that we can count on the continued commitment of Ghana," he UN Chief said.
President Johannes Rau of Germany commended Ghana in his message for its contribution to peace and stability in West Africa and its sub-regional integration.
"I am convinced that the parliamentary and presidential elections, which will be held this year, will further consolidate Ghana's role as a democratic state and a stability factor in the region," he said.
President Jiang Zemin of China said over the past years, the government and people of Ghana have devoted themselves to safeguarding political stability and ethnic unity, developing the economy, thus achieving new and greater successes in areas of economic and social development.
President Abdelaziz Bouteflika of Algeria said his country appreciated "the quality of the historic bonds of friendship, solidarity and mutual aid and co-operation shared by Ghana and Algeria".
"I also wish to mention the sustained action you are taking to promote peace and stability in West Africa."
President Emile Lahoud of Lebanon, Muhammad Rafig Tarar, President of Pakistan, President Yasser Arafat of Palestine and the Governor-General of Australia all sent messages congratulating President Rawlings.
The anniversary were marked with a parade by school children and some voluntary organisations at the Independence Square.
GRi../
Accra (Greater Accra) 7 March 2000
Police at the Ghana International Trade Fair on Saturday, arrested two soldiers for allegedly assaulting one Mr David Lawe, a visitor at the Fair.
The names of the soldiers were not given and they were handed over to the Military Police.
A Police source at the Fair told GNA that Mrs Dora Lawe reported the assault.
The soldiers were said to have attempted to engage Mrs Lawe in a conversation at the Children's Park near the Round Pavilion.
When Mr Lawe intervened that the woman was married they became offended and assaulted him.
This attracted a large crowd and the Police was called in to enforce law and order.
Initial attempt to apprehend the soldiers was resisted and police reinforcement had to be called in.
When they were arrested, the Police Headquarters was informed and the Military Police rushed to take them away.
In another development security has been tightened at the Trade Fair Site. Lt. Commander Arnold Dededzi (rtd), Chief Security Officer, said all is being done to stem the activities of pick pockets, thieves and other anti social misfits.
There were rumours of theft, pick pocketing and assault on Sunday morning.
A young man with a bunch of keys, which he is suspected to be using to break into vehicles, was arrested on Saturday night.
The Chief Security officer said Police strength at the Fair has been increased from 20 to 25 while patrols have been intensified.
He said that, the services of a private security firm, have been engaged to ensure safety of cars and urged the public and exhibitors to be wary of pick pockets and fake currency dealers.
A man was arrested for gambling.
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Accra (Greater Accra) 7 March 2000
The three Regional Ministers whose postings were temporarily suspended were on Sunday asked to proceed on their new assignments.
A statement signed by Mr. John Mahama, Minister of Communications said Mr David Osei-Owusu, Upper West Regional Minister goes back to Brong-Ahafo whilst Mr Donald Adabre in Brong-Ahafo moves to Upper East.
Alhaji Amidu Sulemana assumes duty as Upper West Regional Minister, the statement added.
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Accra (Greater Accra) 7 March 2000
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) on Monday commended Ghanaians for their efforts at bringing the nation to its 43rd anniversary.
It expressed the hope that the next anniversary will see "Ghana as a more united, industrious, productive and vibrant nation".
A statement signed by Mr Vincent Asiseh, Press Secretary of the Party, urged Ghanaians to take the forthcoming National Population and Housing Census, revision of Voters' Register and the general elections seriously for the nation to distinguish itself as one determined to succeed.
"At 43, Ghana has definitely attained the age of maturity. The stability, peace and progress made over the past two decades amply demonstrate the collective will of the people of Ghana to defy odds and propel the nation forward," the statement said.
GRi../