MP for Awutu Senya East Advocates for Social Justice on World Day of Social Justice
In a powerful address delivered in Parliament, the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Hon. Philis Naa Koryoo Okunor, commemorated the United Nations’ World Day of Social Justice, emphasizing the need for fairness, equity, and human dignity in Ghana’s social and economic structures.
The MP stressed that social justice is a cornerstone of thriving democracies and must be viewed as an essential pillar in the nation’s pursuit of inclusive development.
Established by the UN in 2007 and first observed in 2009, World Day of Social Justice aims to address pressing global issues such as poverty, inequality, unemployment, and human rights violations.
This year’s theme, “Empowering Inclusion, Bridging Gaps for Social Justice”, calls for urgent action to implement inclusive policies and social protection systems to address inequalities in societies worldwide, including Ghana.
Historical Struggles for Social Justice
Hon. Hon Philis Okunor reflected on the long history of social justice struggles in Africa, particularly Ghana, dating back to the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885, which led to the exploitation of Africa through colonialism and the systemic injustices that continue to affect the continent.
However, the MP highlighted Ghana’s independence in 1957, under the leadership of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, as a significant step toward building a more just and equitable society. Despite notable progress in sectors like education, healthcare, political participation, and economic empowerment, social justice remains an ongoing challenge.
Current Social Justice Issues in Ghana
Hon. Okunor identified several key issues currently affecting social justice in Ghana, including:
Human Rights and Democracy: Concerns about the shrinking civic space and violations of fundamental freedoms were raised, referencing the arrests of Democracy Hub protestors and his own illegal arrest. The MP emphasized the need for upholding the right to peaceful assembly and free expression.
Election Violence: The MP highlighted the unresolved deaths of eight Ghanaians and the violence during the 2020 elections, particularly in the Awutu Senya East Constituency, and called for justice for the victims and their families.
Economic Hardships and Inequalities: The economic downturn following the 2022 financial crisis pushed over 800,000 Ghanaians into extreme poverty.
The Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) also resulted in significant financial losses for many Ghanaians, including pensioners. Unemployment remains a pressing issue, with many educated graduates unable to secure jobs.
Access to Essential Services: The MP noted the lack of affordable housing, rising healthcare costs, and inequalities in access to education and social welfare services in both urban and rural areas.
Government’s Commitment to Social Justice
In response to these challenges, the new administration under President John Dramani Mahama, which took office on January 7, 2025, is committed to addressing the issues of social justice head-on. The MP outlined several key initiatives being pursued by the government to advance social justice:
24-Hour Economy Policy: This transformative policy aims to maximize economic productivity by creating more sustainable jobs throughout the day and night, expanding employment opportunities for all.
Mo Ne Yo Policy: A social security program aimed at providing financial security for workers in the informal sector upon reaching the age of 60, safeguarding the future of millions of Ghanaians engaged in informal employment.
No Fees Stress Policy: This initiative seeks to eliminate financial barriers for first-year tertiary students, making higher education accessible to all, regardless of their financial background. The policy is expected to feature in the 2025 budget.
Addressing Election Violence: President Mahama has directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to investigate the deaths linked to the 2020 and 2024 elections, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable and that the affected families receive compensation and closure.
Call to Action for a Just and Inclusive Ghana
In conclusion, the MP called on all Ghanaians to reaffirm their collective responsibility to build a fair, just, and inclusive society, where no one is left behind due to their socio-economic status, political affiliation, or location.
Social justice, he stated, is not an abstract concept but a lived reality that impacts the quality of life for millions.
As representatives of the people, MPs must ensure that policies, laws, and governance structures reflect a commitment to fairness, equality, and human dignity.
On the World Day of Social Justice, the MP called for collective efforts to bridge the gaps in society and empower inclusion, paving the way for a more just and prosperous Ghana.
Source: Felix Nyaaba//expresnewsghana.com
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