The Chief of Mempreasem, Nii Torgbor Ampaw VI, has apologized to President Akufo-Addo over an incident that involved him (Chief) during the Green Ghana event organized at the University of Ghana.
At the commencement of the programme last Friday 9th June 2023 the National Anthem was observed, and the president was seen directing the Regional Minister for Greater Accra, Henry Quartey, to get the chief’s attention to observe the anthem, because he was seated whilst it was being observed.
But the Chief in a statement explained that he did not elect to willfully refuse to stand to observe the National Anthem as no patriotic son of the land would do so let alone a chief, more so in the presence of the President and other distinguished guests.
“I did not stand to observe the National Anthem because I felt weak. Even though I was not well and was on medication. I had endeavored to attend the programme because I share in the vision of the President for the Green Ghana Day initiative. I was hoping everything would go as planned so I could retire home in time to continue with my recuperation. Unfortunately for me, the programme commenced rather late. I had been sitting for a considerable period of time and thus felt weak from the effects of the medication and my ill-health by the time the National Anthem was being observed which was why I was unable to stand on my feet to observe it.”
Nii Torgbor Ampaw VI continued: “I immediately apologized through the Regional Minister to the President. After that, even though I was still not feeling well, I did my best to stand on my fee for the opening prayer and subsequently, the second observation of the national anthem at the end of the programme in reverence to the President and all du distinguished guests. This is contrary to the erroneous impression being created it some circle that I sat throughout the programme.”
He further assured the President and the good people of Ghana that he is a law-abiding citizen of this country, adding that as a chief it is incumbent on him at all times to uphold the sovereignty of this nation as enshrined in the National Anthem.
“I would therefore but for my temporary incapacitation, never refuse willfully to properly observe something as important as the National Anthem. I am. therefore, by this communication, unreservedly, apologising and also encouraging all Ghanaians to exercise restraint with their reactions, especially as directed to the number one Gentleman of the land. The President is the custodian of our sovereignty and thus it is his duty at all times to be zealous in defending same.”
