The public comments made by Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of Asogli in the presence of the Vice President of Ghana cannot and must not brushed aside. It must not be treated with contempt neither should it be seen as a tribal sentiment or slight on the government. His comments were also surprisingly made in the presence of the Okyenhene, Amoatia Ofori Panin another distinguished and progressive chief.
The democratic freedoms enjoyed by Ghanaians have meant a lot of nonsense being written about the Agbogbomefia on the comments columns of Ghana web. I am pretty sure that some of the contributors to Ghana web do air out their grievances and frustrations after a hard days work in the land of the “white man” on the elders and politicians in Ghana.
After being manhandled, insulted and walked over at work by their supervisors, team leaders, directors they in turn vent their frustrations on the government, chiefs, politicians and anyone who writes any piece on the web.
Some of them have lost their marbles leading to a total disrespect for anything Ghanaian, our elders, traditional institutions, politicians and civil servants.
For those morons and dick- heads who do not know the Agbogbomefia, he is a fine, decent, patriotic citizen. I am 100% certain he has no axe to grind- just hurt.
He has and continues to work tirelessly for the development of our country.
However, Democracy “edee” (Democracy is sweet- keep insulting)
What are the Ground Rules?
As far as I am aware before a Traditional Chief leaves the shore of Ghana on any official or non official trip he must informed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who will instruct the Ambassador to receive the dignitaries. When I invited Nana Nkyi 1V, Omanhene of Assin to the International Slavery day in Liverpool, the procedure was the same. In his case, he had the opportunity to say goodbye to the President. Our President is absolutely committed to the cohesion and unity of our country. Moreover, Honourable D.K. Osei Secretary always and I mean always tend to find space in the diary of the President for him to meet Chiefs at the Castle.
For example, last month a delegation of Ga Chiefs were in UK to launch the Ga-Adangbe Educational Fund. The distinguished guests were met by the Ghanaian High Commissioner and offered all the necessary assistance and courtesies. Prior to their arrival I had to write to the Foreign Ministry informing them of the impending trip.
Perceptions/Misperceptions
Despite my comments , the fact still remains that a sizeable minority of Ghanaians including the Agbogbmefia believes, feels and perceive that the ground rules for Ambassadors receiving Chiefs and other important dignitaries is not transparent, clear and unfair. Conflicts, disputes and clashes always arise when there is ill feeling, mistrust and misperceptions. The key, which unlocks most ill perceived ideas, is understanding, tolerance, empathy and communication.
That being the case it is the duty of all of us to act and behave in a way that increases trust, respect and love among us. Those who cocoon themselves in their tribal shell lose out on the beauty of creation. Just try “Tuo Zafi – I love it. The best is the one prepared by my “adopted auntie ” at Ghana/Guinea/Mali in Kumasi. You see, the problem is if you have not tried it you might think fufuo at “atwenemu”(deer place) at Kumasi is the best thing since slice bread.
Moreover, if you have not attended the Kundum festival at Nzema you might think your town’s festival is the greatest around. Check it out. My point is simple: One man’s meat is another man’s poison.
One People
I do passionately believe that Ghana is the best country in the world. I love our culture, people, traditions, values and our wicked sense of humour. The majority of Ghanaians are generous, peace- loving, kind and hospitable. Our tribal backgrounds are just accident of birth. Most of us are extremely comfortable in any given situation, we love, laugh, inter-marry, share jokes, eat, argue and fight among ourselves.
Some of us are from Nkawie, attended school at Kumasi, Lived in Accra, attended University in UK, worked in Poland and Greece, and currently residing in Cheshire. Like the chameleon, most Ghanaians have to adapt and fit in wherever they are.
The majority of us just want an affordable home, a decent education for our children, a square meal a day and some warm clothe on our backs.
For example my company in Ghana employs 3 super guys from the Volta Region, 2 wonderful ladies from the Central Region, 1 exuberant gentleman from Upper East, 2 loutish buddies from Ashanti region and 1 sweet lady from Brong- Ahafo. We are a wonderful family, just trying to earn our living and enjoy the little that the Lord has given us.
Our country is a beautiful place to live, work and have fun. Each one of us has something to contribute to make it a better place.
Way Forward
As a nation we are blessed with all the natural resources that one can have. We must grasp the mantle and champion the cause of the poor, sick, needy and voiceless. We must create a cohesive and united country at peace with itself. Our leaders must behave in a way that inspires and encourages us to unite.
The only division that exists in Ghana is the yawning gap between the ‘have and have nots.’.
The lights of Ghana Plc will not be turned off if the electorate decides to elect Professor Mills or the NPP candidate (to be elected) as our next President. Ghana is much stronger than any one person. We are one people with one destiny. Ideas and policies may divide us during the time of elections but our unity as brothers and sisters cannot and must not be destroyed.
Conclusion
In concluding, I will plead with the Ghana Ambassador to China to offer an apology to the Agogboemefia. I am not naïve, stupid or a fool, I understand the implications and consequences of the Ambassador saying sorry. He may have perfectly good reasons why he failed to meet the Agbogbmefia. Reasons, which may be justified and reasonable.
However, there are times when the greatness of a man is measured by his humility and greater love for country. Mr Ambassador leave you mark in history and apologise to the Agbogbmefia.
God Bless
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