Justice R.S Blay Memorial lecture held to commemorate life and achievement – Skyy Power FM

A memorial lecture has been held in honour of the 2nd RT. Honourable Justice Robert Samuel Blay on the theme “Consolidating Democracy and the Rule Of Law” at Takoradi Technical University(TTU) today 23rd June 2023.

The intellectual discourse was held to commemorate the life and the great achievements of Justice R.S Blay and also ensure the impact by reflecting on the exemplary lives of some Ghanaian leaders who spearheaded the fights for independence.

The chairman of the event, the Vice Chancellor of Takoradi Technical University(TTU), Rev. Professor Frank John Eshun in his address said that the University must engage in intellectual lectures to benefit society through community engagement because it’s a necessity. This he said is to motivate the citizenry and also the young people to embrace their social responsibilities and exercise their rights.

The main speaker of the event, RT. Honourable Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye in his presentation highlighted the need for the young and all to be in the known of the road to independence with reference to his book “Ghana The Founding Fathers”.

According to him, there is some misinformation with the already existing information that is there on the independence struggle.

He, therefore, urged everyone to make it a point to know and rectify the mistakes regarding the journey to independence.

Touching on some constitutional issues, Prof. Aaron Mike Oquaye talked about the powers of the arm of government in present-day Ghana.

He cited the legislature as some Members of Parliament these days, gain Ministerial appointments as well unlike during 1969. This he said brings about divided attention as some of the members of parliaments are unable to focus on their duties diligently.

He described the situation as one that must be looked into and suggested that it will be ideal if a member of parliament resigns when given a ministerial appointment in order to ensure proper performance of their responsibilities.

Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye highlighted affirmative action as well. Affirmative action which seeks more participation in politics is one issue that has been discussed over the years. Prof. Oquaye proposed that the district assemblies must be given a one-third slot to be able to compete at the local level instead of appointments by the president.

For the national election he said, after the results of 60% are known, the 50% reserved seat reserved for women should be pushed further to 60% because women will make excellent contributions in parliament. This he added would have been a fight between the UGCC and Justice RS. Blay would have championed.

In attendance at the lecture were the Family of Justice R.S Blay, Heads of Public Institutions, Ghana Navy, Ghana Prisons, Students from selected schools with the staff and students of TTU.