Political Parties Urged to Prioritize Homelessness and Mental Health in Upcoming Campaigns

ACCRA: A prominent non-governmental organization, the New Beginning Rehabilitation Centre, has issued a call to political parties to make homelessness and mental health issues a central focus in their campaigns for the 2024 General Election. The center emphasized the need for comprehensive strategies to improve the welfare of mentally challenged individuals and address the broader issue of homelessness nationwide. According to Ghana News Agency, the New Beginning Rehabilitation Centre expressed concern over the lack of attention given to mental health and homelessness by political parties and candidates. While campaigns often highlight plans for health, education, social, economic, and environmental issues, mentally challenged individuals and homelessness have been largely overlooked. The statement, signed by Osman Ahmed Okyere, the organization's CEO, highlighted the threats posed to public safety and well-being by mentally challenged individuals living on the streets. The NGO acknowledged the efforts of s uccessive governments in allocating resources to the mental health care system, including training professionals, establishing facilities, and ensuring the availability of necessary treatments. However, it argued that these measures have been insufficient and urged political parties to join in addressing this pressing issue. The organization's statement detailed the dangers posed by mentally challenged individuals, citing incidents of violence and unsanitary conditions caused by those living on the streets. Highlighting alarming incidents in cities like Accra and Kumasi, where mentally challenged individuals have attacked civilians, the NGO stressed the need for improved mental health care and social support systems. The statement also lamented the neglect of rehabilitated individuals by their families, leading to their return to the streets where they often beg for alms or behave violently. The New Beginning Rehabilitation Centre advocates for the rights of all Ghanaians, regardless of mental health status or living situation, to receive the care and support necessary for a safe and dignified life.