The Majority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has called on the political class to take proactive and collaborative measures to address public discontent to prevent agitations and protests.
Drawing useful lessons from the recent protests in Kenya during a parliamentary session on Wednesday, July 3, the Effutu MP emphasised the importance of tackling the root causes of public dissatisfaction collectively, regardless of political affiliation.
Mr Afenyo-Markin urged politicians and decision-makers to learn from the recent protests in Kenya, which led to an attack on Parliament and other state institutions.
He stressed that ignoring the grievances of the public could lead to similar unrest in Ghana.
The Majority Leader highlighted the necessity of addressing public concerns promptly to maintain stability and peace.
He appealed for unity among politicians to ensure that effective solutions are implemented to mitigate public dissatisfaction and prevent potential disruptions.
“The recent Gen Z activism in Kenya serves as a striking warning. To prevent such scenarios in Ghana, it is imperative that the political class collaboratively take proactive and comprehensive measures to address the underlying causes of public discontent."
“Our preoccupation with political manoeuvring should not blind us to the reality of public expectations. Let us recommit to a national agenda that not only leverages the potential of our youth but also unlocks the massive development potential often associated with a demographic dividend," he said.
Ododiodiodio MP Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, who witnessed the protests and violence in Kenya, also emphasised the urgency of addressing youth unemployment.
“We should not be deceived. Yes, we can preach and preach and preach peace all the time. But when people think that the impunity of the political class is beyond their endurance, they will definitely react."
“Today, as we sit here, the perception out there is that the executive is corrupt. The judiciary has become a political pawn. We, the legislature, are selfish and uncaring and they have low expectations of our ability to fight for them. And that is a danger.”
Credit: myjoyonline.com