As Ghana prepares for its 9th general election since the 4th republic, national service personnel have been cautioned not to allow themselves to be used by unscrupulous politicians to foment trouble.
During the orientation of NSS personnel in the Oforikrom municipality of the Ashanti region at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, the acting Ashanti regional director of the National Service Scheme (NSS), Prince KanKam Boadu entreated personnel to be patriotic and help safeguard the country’s democracy.
“Next year we will be going into an election year and that is the time some unscrupulous politicians will want to use some of you to foment trouble. Do not fall for their tricks or empty promises which they may want to woo you with. Remain committed as Ghanaians and strive to protect the interest of the nation as national service personnel”, he implored.
He noted Ghana is a growing democracy hence the need for personnel to assist in consolidating her gains.
“Ghana is a beacon of democracy and peace in the West African sub-region. Without peaceful coexistence we cannot contribute to her development. You are the youth and the leaders of tomorrow so conduct ourselves well before, during and after the general elections in your various communities and organizations where you have been posted to serve the nation”, he admonished.
He further encouraged personnel to follow lay down procedures in presenting their grievances.
“We use a bottom-up approach in addressing our issues at NSS. If you don’t understand anything your managers and supervisors are there to help you out. To have your issues addressed depends on the manner through which you channel your concerns. When there is a problem you don’t run to your mentors, politicians or radio stations. It doesn’t help. We are here to support you and ensure your welfare.
“So when you have a genuine concern go to your immediate supervisor and when he is not able to solve it, it goes to the next officer in charge till it gets to the municipality and to me at the regional level. When I’m not able to solve it then I direct it to my executive director at the national level”, he clarified.
However, he acknowledged that the monthly allowances of personnel may delay in the initial stages but has assured them of regular payments subsequently within a reasonable timeframe.