YOUNG PARLIAMENTARIANS EMBARK ON NATIONWIDE MISSION TO RESCUE THOSE STRUGGLING WITH ADDICTION

In a heartfelt and determined move, the Young Parliamentarians Caucus has set in motion a nationwide campaign to reach out to individuals grappling with drug addiction in ghettos across all 276 constituencies. The campaign, named the Ghetto Rescue Operation, took its first steps in Ashaiman, a bustling community in the Greater Accra Region.

This initiative places a strong emphasis on healing and hope, focusing especially on young people caught in the cycle of substance abuse. By offering counseling, medical care, and pathways to reintegrate into society, the program aims to help participants reclaim their lives and restore their sense of purpose.

During their visit to the Ashaiman ghetto, a group of MPs under 45 years old, accompanied by psychologists and mental health specialists, engaged in open and honest conversations with residents affected by addiction. They listened with empathy to personal stories of struggle and resilience, providing encouragement and support.

In addition to their presence, the team brought much-needed supplies—food, water, soft drinks—and donated an amount of Ten Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHS 10,000.00) to assist ongoing recovery efforts within the community.

Some stories were particularly moving. One man shared, “For 40 years, I’ve battled addiction, mixing red-red with other substances. I want to stop, but it’s been a tough fight. I truly need help.” Another added, “I’ve been using cocaine for 10 years. Every time I try to quit, my body demands more.”

The Hon. Member of Parliament for North Dayi and the chairperson of the caucus, Mrs. Joycelyn Tetteh Quashie, made it clear that the campaign transcends politics. “We’re not here to judge or blame. These are our brothers and sisters, and they deserve compassion and support. We’ve put aside political differences to stand united in this cause,” she said.

Mrs. Quashie also acknowledged the encouragement and backing of Speaker Alban Bagbin, whose support has been vital to the caucus’s work.

The Hon. Municipal Chief Executive of Ashaiman, Mr. Freeman Tsekpo, commended the young MPs for their bold and compassionate approach to tackling drug abuse and promoting recovery in affected communities.

The Ghetto Rescue Operation will continue its journey across the country, as these young lawmakers and their teams seek to address the root causes of addiction and advocate for stronger rehabilitation programs, lighting a path of hope and renewal for many.