General News of Thursday, 12 September 2013

Source: Isaac Kyei Andoh

Talk about Ghana - Bagbin to Western Media

Member of Parliamment for Nandowli/Kaleo constituency has called on the international community and Internation media to give the same prominence they have consistently given to conflicts and instability of some African countries to the peace and stability in Ghana.

According to him, Ghana is a reflection of what Africa can achieve in terms of governance and that is the story to be told the world to also serve as encouragement to other African countries who are still dreaming of achieving what we have sustained over the past 20 years.

He stated that he has always had issues with how the international media consistently without hesitation puts the negatives and bad images of Africa in the light and deliberately overlook the good things happening on the continent.

Speaking to this reporter in an exclusive interview, Hon. Bagbin noted that though the international community predicted the possibility of violence breaking on the announcement of the elections petition verdict and went as far as cautioning their citizens and even doubling their security, very little has been said about the peace that prevailed eventually.

“I think it is about time the international media focuses on the successes of this nation to serve as encouragement for other African countries”

“If telling the bad stories in Africa has failed to serve as deterrent and caution to other countries, then let’s make them jealous with the good things happening on the very continent that has been picture as violent and unstable”

“Bad news sells but good news makes impact” he added.

He noted that if the declaration of the verdict had resulted in violence, Ghana would have been on the screens and front pages of all the International Media Organizations but because it was so peaceful, it is not of interest to them.

He applauded Ghanaians for comporting themselves during the election petition and declaration and advised all and sundry to support President, Mahama to deliver on the promises the NDC made before the party was retained in office.

“As a country, our destiny is in our own hands and it is in every true Ghanaian’s interest to contribute in any way possible to ensure that the basic things necessary for human survival are made available to all and sundry.

He also lauded the NPP as a party and singled Nana Addo for praise on his open acceptance of the verdict and subsequently conceding and congratulating the President, Mahama.

He said, it was one of the most honorable gestures in the history of this country and needs to be applauded irrespective of one’s political affiliation.