I Didn’t Stand To Observe The National Anthem Because I Felt Weak- La-Mempeasem Chief
The Chief of La-Mempeasem Nii Torgbor Obodai Ampaw VI has rendered an unqualified apology to President Nana Addo Dankwa-Akufo Addo for failing to rise up during the National Anthem at the Green Ghana event held on June 9, 2023, at the University of Ghana, Legon.
According to the Chief, his ill health compelled him not to stand up as patriotic citizens would for the National Anthem.
“I respectfully wish to extend my sincerest apologies to the President and the good people of Ghana about this rather unfortunate incident”.
“I would like to state for the records that I did not elect to willfully refuse to stand to observe the National Anthem. Any 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 endeavoured 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”, excerpts of the statement released by the Chief highlighted.
“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 and defending at the same time”.
Find the full statement below
