Without any last-minute challenges, The Chronicle can state that all is set for the Eastern Regional capital, Koforidua, to host the 67th Independence Day parade.
The people of the region, especially the regional capital, would not watch this year’s Independence Day anniversary parade on their TV screens, but will have the opportunity for live participation.
The display of some heavy security vehicles and military helicopters flying over the Eastern Region as part of parade rehearsals has reduced the venue, the Koforidua Youth Resource Centre, to a tourist attraction, as residents, both old and young throng the centre to watch the training, almost on daily basis.
There has been heavy vehicular and human traffic following the influx of people, most especially the security men and women to Koforidua.
A drive from Old Estate SSNIT to the main central business hub which takes about 20 minutes can now take a commuter about an hour.
All the major four (4) roads leading to Koforidua have been awash with mini billboards of the big six (6) of Ghana’s independence and the hoisting of Ghana flags, drumming home the significance of the ceremony.
As part of the preparation, the security agencies on Saturday took to the principal streets of the regional capital for an endurance walk.
The endurance walk was led by the Commanders of the various security agencies in the region, including the Eastern Regional Police Commander, DCOP Emmanuel Twumasi-Ankrah, DCOI Faisal Dish, Immigration Commander, ADP Thomas Seidu, Regional Prison Commander and ACFO Madam Jennifer Naa Yarley Quaye, Regional Commander of the Ghana National Fire Service.
In a post endurance walk interview, the commanders of the various security agencies in turn expressed confidence and their readiness not only to put up a good display during the ceremony but also to ensure total security before, during, and after the ceremony.
After the walk, the security agencies joined the New Juaben South Municipal Assembly to clean up the municipality, particularly the entrance to the venue.
Managers of the Assembly are of the view that making cleanliness a top priority of the municipality was in the right direction to confirm the city’s image as a center for tourism and economic activity.
According to Edward Abazing, Municipal Coordinating Director, “Koforidua will be hosting high-profile dignitaries during the Independence Day festivities, making cleanliness a top priority. Our city’s image as a center for tourism and economic activity depends on it.”
He disclosed that the cooperation of residents with the New Juaben South Municipal Assembly was ample demonstration and determination of the municipality to set a shining example of civic responsibility ahead of the Independence Day Celebration.
Mr. Abazing noted that the participation of the traders and motorists who somehow suspended their activities on that day to ensure maximum involvement in the clean-up exercise was a point of rekindling the community’s spirit and promoting a culture of cleanliness.
The theme for this year’s Independence Day parade is: “Our Democracy, Our Pride,” with a focus on reinforcing democratic values and promoting peace, particularly in light of the upcoming 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections.
The parade, which is expected to be graced by high profile personalities, including the Ivorian President, Alassane Ouattara, as the Special Guest of Honour will feature 21 contingents of security agencies, representatives from 11 schools and various traditional groups, all set to participate in the activities.
The Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Kwame Acheampong, on Friday joined the Muslim community in prayers for the sustainability of religious harmony and the success of the independence anniversary celebrations.
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