President John Dramani Mahama in an emotional appeal has called for the celebration of public servants in a bid to honour their memories while they are still alive.
According to him, public service officers spend countless hours away from their family while taking risks and making tough decisions for the progress of the nation, yet get least recognition for their efforts.
Speaking at the national interfaith memorial service today which was organised for the eight (8) public officials who perished in a helicopter crash last August, President Mahama advised that the country should not always celebrate such efforts only after a tragedy strikes.
“They spend countless hours away from their families. They endure difficult conditions. They make decisions under pressure. They accept risks because they believe that Ghana’s progress is worth every effort they put in. And too often we celebrate such service only after tragedy strikes” he stressed.
He added that as a daily occurrence such persons always go the extra mile for God and country and so should their rewards be.
“Today we must resolve to appreciate public service even as it is performed daily. To appreciate those who labor faithfully, often without recognition, because they believe in something that is greater than themselves” he intimated.
President Mahama further stated that though no nation can rule out tragedy, the mark of a great nation is how it emerges from that sorrow with greater compassion, greater wisdom, and a stronger commitment to one another.
He said over the past year, the country has witnessed countless acts of kindness from ordinary Ghanaians and from people who had never met any of the eight departed officials, and nevertheless, they offered prayers, encouragement, and support to their grief families.
“I have seen religious communities, traditional authorities, members of the security services, and citizens from every corner of our country standing together with these families in solidarity”, President Mahama stated.
The interfaith memorial service was attended by Vice President, Professor Jane Naana Poku Agyeman, Chief of Staff Dr. Julius Debrah, families of the departed 8, government officials, head of the security services and the Diplomatic Corps.
Source: Myxyzonline.com
