The Young Parliamentarians Caucus has launched a nationwide initiative to rescue drug addicts from ghettos across all 276 constituencies, beginning in Ashaiman in the Greater Accra Region.
Dubbed the Ghetto Rescue Operation, the campaign seeks to prioritize the rehabilitation of drug users—particularly the youth—by providing counseling, medical support, and reintegration opportunities to help them rebuild their lives.
During their visit to the Ashaiman ghetto, Members of Parliament under 45 years old, alongside psychologists and mental health officers, engaged with drug users, listened to their struggles, and offered words of encouragement.
They also donated food, water, soft drinks, and GHS 10,000 to support ongoing recovery efforts.
Some individuals shared harrowing stories of decades-long addiction. “I’ve been using all kinds of drugs, including mixing red-red with other substances, for the past 40 years. I want to stop, but it’s been a struggle. I really need help,” one man revealed. Another added, “I’ve been on cocaine for 10 years. I try to quit, but my body keeps calling for it.”
Chairperson of the caucus and MP for North Dayi, Joycelyn Tetteh Quashie, emphasized the non-partisan nature of the mission. “We are not condemning anyone. These are our brothers and sisters, and they need our support. We’ve set aside political colours to fight this together,” she said.
Mrs. Quashie also paid tribute to Speaker Alban Bagbin for his encouragement and support of the caucus’s efforts.
Ashaiman MCE Freeman Tsekpo praised the young MPs for taking bold steps to address drug abuse and promote recovery in affected communities.
The initiative will see the young MPs and their team visit ghettos nationwide, aiming to tackle the root causes of addiction and advocate for stronger rehabilitation programs.
Source: Ohene Amponsah
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