Redirect Salaries of Irresponsible Parents to Their Children, Says Okyenhene.

Okyenhene Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin is proposing a new law that would freeze the salaries of parents who abandon their children and fail to support them. He believes the money from these frozen salaries should be used by the state to cover the education and care of the neglected children.

Speaking at the 2024 Ohum Kan Festival in Kyebi, Okyenhene expressed concern about parents who leave their children behind while they work elsewhere without providing for them. “It’s irresponsible to give birth and then move away, leaving your children behind without support. The state should freeze your salary and use it to care for your children. You’ll work, but your salary will go to those you’ve abandoned,” he said.

Okyenhene also warned that children neglected on the streets might become a problem for society if not properly cared for. He urged parents to take responsibility and ensure their children’s welfare to foster a safer community.

In his speech, Okyenhene also highlighted issues within the education sector, accusing some teachers and staff of sabotaging the Free SHS policy. He mentioned cases of staff stealing food meant for students and called for these individuals to be publicly shamed. “The state is working hard to provide free education for every child, and yet some people are stealing food meant for them. This is unacceptable,” he said.

Okyenhene emphasized the need for patriotism and responsible behavior, urging the youth to avoid drug abuse and live healthy lives. He called for stricter actions against drug dealers, noting their harmful impact on both young people and the community.

This year’s Ohum festival also marks Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin’s 25th anniversary as the Okyenhene. The festival celebrates the Akan belief in the unity of the living, the dead, and the unborn.