The Lot of Veterans has improved over the years - Commodore Obimpeh
Accra, Feb 28, GNA - Commodore Steve Obimpeh (rtd), the National Chairman of the Veterans Association of Ghana (VAG), says the lot of Army veterans in the country had improved over the years through government intervention.
“Their pensions have improved immensely, though there are a few complaints that are being addressed.”
Comodore Obimpeh said this on Tuesday at a parade held in Accra to commemorate the 64th Anniversary of the 28th February Christiansborg Crossroads shooting incident.
He said there was a Bill in parliament to turn the VAG into a state institution under the Ministry of Defence to improve the welfare of veterans.
Comodore Obimpeh said in many countries, the state was entirely responsible for the welfare of veterans, adding that Ghana would not be an exception.
Commodore Obimpeh said it was an opportunity to imbue into the youth of today, the values of patriotism, and students were therefore invited from a number of schools to witness the occasion.
He said this year's parade was a vast improvement on the previous ones, adding that other activities including a vigil would be held to mark the day.
Ms. Samia Nkrumah, National Chairman of the Convention People's Party, described the occasion as one of “utmost significance”.
She said the courage of the heroes of that day, marked a significant landmark in the country's struggle towards independence.
“As good citizens, we need to have the courage to stand up for what is right,” she said.
Ms. Samia Nkrumah said in modern times, although the days of colonialism were far gone, it was important for the rights of the people to be promoted, adding that one typical example was Africa's need for economic emancipation.
Wreaths were laid by Vice President John Dramani Mahama on behalf of the government and people of Ghana, Rear Admiral Mathew Quarshie, Acting Chief of Defence Staff, on behalf of the Security Services and Commodore Steve Obimpeh on behalf of Veterans.
Others were laid by the traditional authorities as well as families and representatives of the fallen soldiers.
Also to mark the occasion was a parade of six officers and 150 men and women, drawn from the Army, Navy, Air Force and the Police Service, under the command of Captain Michael Nfu, with the Armed Forces Band in attendance.
On 28th February 1948, a number of ex-service men who had fought alongside the allies in the Second World War, were on a march from Accra to the Christiansborg Castle, to present a petition to the then British Governor.
Their march was intercepted by armed policemen, led by a British Superintendent, Mr. Imray, who ordered the ex-servicemen to disperse.