The inaugural edition of the Ghana Speaks Debate organised by The Legions, commenced on Saturday, April 27 at the UniMAC Auditorium in North Legon.

Addressing participants and attendees at the event, the Executive Director of The Legions, Willis Cobby Iddirisu emphasised the importance of fostering discussions and exchanges of ideas to effect positive change in Ghana and across the African continent. 

According to him, his outfit stands as a beacon of hope and serves as a platform for change and a voice for the voiceless.

He stated the power of conversation is an essential tool for progress and youth representation in the country’s political and social landscape.

Mr Iddiriu stated that the bold move to establish The Legions as a organised civil society organization embodies the group’s commitment to driving progress through the core principles that underpin their mission.

“At The Legions, our core operations and values revolve around accountability, truth, inclusion, and equity. It is because of these principles that we are committed to fostering Ghana's growth.

“We aspire not only to be just another civil society organization, but to become a significant force advocating for a seat at the table, particularly in youth development initiatives,” he said.

The Executive Director of The Legions emphasised the purpose of the debate, reiterating the organization’s dedication to promoting understanding and inclusivity among the major political parties in Ghana, particularly in the context of youth policies. 

He described the event as a celebration of diversity, where various perspectives and ideas converge from all works of life to enrich the collective consciousness.

Mr Iddirisu urged the participants to remain mindful of the power of their words and to engage in the debate with dignity, decorum, and an open mind.

“For it is through the crucible of debate that we refine our understanding and policies, challenge our assumptions, and emerge stronger, wiser, and more united than before as a people. Fg

“The theme of tonight's debate is not just a topic for discussion; it is a call to action, a rallying cry for change in the Ghanaian political landscape.”

He continued, “It beckons us to confront the pressing issues facing the youth of the country today, to confront these never-ending challenges in our various sectors of our economy and lives with courage, compassion, and conviction.

“It challenges us to look beyond ourselves, to listen to those whose voices have been marginalized in the crafting of our policies, and to stand in solidarity with the oppressed and the downtrodden.”

Mr Iddirisu extended his heartfelt gratitude to all those involved in making the Ghana Speaks debate a reality, including the members of The Legions, the participating political parties, student leaders, audience members, and all who share the organization’s vision for the transformative power of dialogue.

“Together, let us seize this moment, let us seize this opportunity, and let us, through the Ghana Speaks debate, unleash the full potential of our collective humanity as Ghanaians and get to make value-laden policies that will be advantageous to the youth,” he said.