Ghana, a beacon of democracy in West Africa, faces a pressing challenge of youth disenchantment that threatens its peace and stability.
The growing sense of frustration and disillusionment among young people has far-reaching implications, particularly in the lead-up to the December elections.
Accordingly, the Coalition of NABCO Trainees has urged the National Peace Council to step in and resolve the unpaid allowances issue affecting its members, citing concerns that prolonged disputes could compromise national peace and security.
This call to action aligns with the National Peace Council’s mandate to harmonize and coordinate conflict prevention and management efforts nationwide.
The Coalition indicated that NABCO trainees have been struggling to receive their allowances since 2021, despite repeatedly reaching out to the Office of the President and relevant ministries for help.
For three years, these trainees have faced significant payment delays, sparking protests and demands for resolution
“Frustrated and exhausted, we are now prepared to hold a mega demonstration at the Jubilee House forecourt, just a week before the elections, if our arrears remain unsettled. This situation poses a serious threat to national security, and we believe your intervention is crucial to preventing potential unrest”.
Coalition of NABCO Trainees
The Coalition urged the National Peace Council to utilize its conflict resolution expertise to broker a prompt settlement of the NABCO arrears issue through diplomatic engagement with the President, ensuring peace and stability in the region.
The NABCO trainees maintained that in doing so, the Coalition hopes to alleviate the financial burdens faced by NABCO trainees and maintain peace during this critical election period.
As Ghana enters a critical election year, the NABCO Trainees’ urgent appeal takes on heightened significance, particularly in light of the country’s history of post-election unrest and violence.
Disillusioned and financially strained youth may become susceptible to exploitation by politicians and extremist elements, potentially fueling tensions, violence, and social unrest between rival political factions.
Intervention Urged To Prevent Demonstration
Furthermore, the Coalition of NABCO Trainees emphasized that swift intervention by the National Peace Council would effectively prevent the planned demonstration and preserve Ghana’s peaceful atmosphere.
The Coalition indicated that by taking prompt action, the Council can also meaningfully address the trainees’ long-standing concerns, ensuring their welfare and mitigating potential social unrest.
“We emphasize that all avenues have been exhausted, and patience is wearing thin. Immediate government action is vital to prevent potential security threats. We look forward to your prompt response and believe your intervention will significantly contribute to maintaining national security and ensuring a peaceful election”.
Coalition of NABCO Trainees
The Coalition indicated that it is relying on the National Peace Council’s typically collaborative approach to help address their concerns.
This expectation is rooted in the Council’s established track record of promoting peaceful conflict resolution and building sustainable peace in Ghana.
Youth disenchantment poses significant threats to Ghana’s peace, democracy, and stability. Addressing these concerns requires urgent attention, strategic investment, and inclusive governance.
Ghana can harness the energy and potential of its youth, ensuring a brighter, more peaceful future by prioritizing youth empowerment, economic opportunities, and transparency.
Most importantly, addressing the pressing issues driving youth disenchantment is vital to fostering a culture of peace and stability.
Accordingly, economic empowerment for the youth can be achieved through vocational training, entrepreneurship support, and job creation initiatives.
To address the disenchantment issue, improving access to quality education, particularly in rural areas, is essential for education and skills development.
More, relevant, good governance requires anti-corruption measures, transparent decision-making processes, and meaningful youth representation.
Social cohesion can be fostered through peacebuilding training and community engagement initiatives.
Empowering citizens, especially youth, to participate in decision-making processes at all levels is crucial for their voices to be heard and their concerns addressed, ultimately reducing disillusionment with the government.
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