Must We Be Silent?

In recent times, a disturbing trend has emerged in Ghana and Africa at large. The youth, in their quest to correct the elderly, have resorted to insults and jabbing. This phenomenon has left many wondering: must we be silent?

Insulting elderly people, our kings, and leaders is not the right way to effect change or correction. Our culture and tradition emphasize respect for the elderly, and the Bible instructs us to "obey your father and your mother" (Exodus 20:12) and to "stand up in the presence of the aged" (Leviticus 19:32).

Where is the respect? Where is the honor? Some of our youths have even taken to social media and journalism platforms – radio, TV, and online handles – to jab and insult presidents, kings, chiefs, and elderly persons. They abuse the opportunity to work as journalists, using their platforms to spread hate and disrespect instead of constructive criticism and informed commentary.

But it's not just the youth. Our African culture, which once held respect and dignity in high esteem, is being eroded. We've forgotten that our culture doesn't allow the young to insult adults, men, to insult and assault women, or children, to disrespect their elders.

Haven't we abused our culture and heritage?All in the name of politics, we've lost sight of what's truly important. We've created a society where the youth feel empowered to publicly insult leaders, calling them silly or foolish. What are we teaching our children? Is that disrespect acceptable? Youth are now telling chiefs and leaders they're fools. Oh no! We're on the verge of losing our dear culture as Africans.

Must we be silent? We must not be silent in the face of wrongdoing or injustice, but we must also not forget to respect those who have come before us.What legacy are we leaving behind? Are we teaching our children to respect and honor their elders?

Oh! Ghana, Africa, let us rise up and reclaim our cultural heritage. Let us show respect and honor to our elderly, and let us work together to build a brighter future.

We don't have to choose between speaking out and showing respect. We can do both.Let us be the change we want to see. Let us be the leaders who inspire and uplift. Let us be the ones who show respect and honor to our elders.

We are the future of Africa. Let us make it a bright one.Youth, the future of Africa, we urge you to let your voices be heard, but let them be voices of respect, wisdom, and compassion. Don't insult or disrespect your elders, but rather engage them in constructive dialogue. Learn from their experiences and wisdom.

Remember, your words have power, and your actions have consequences. Choose to be leaders who inspire and uplift, not those who tear down and destroy. Must we be silent? No, but let us speak with respect, kindness, and wisdom. Let us build a brighter future for Africa, together!

Written by
Ps. Garnet Owusu Ansah
Cape Coast