The axiom, "he who keeps peace would invariably be known by people outside". Today marks the birthday of an illustrious son of Nandom, a man who is peace loving, very kind, generous, honest and above all God fearing.
I got to know this God sent man when he decided to avail himself during the NDC primaries to run for the parliamentary candidate for Nandom on the ticket of the Umbrella party, (the great NDC). Though he was known by many as of the time he was in charge of the prisons, I knew him then by his name but couldn't say anything more than his position as a prison director if I were asked to say something about him as of that time.
His good works cum his significant support for further studies of a number of young men and women from the district was loudly publicized. In fact, that was one of the things that triggered my unrelenting penchant to knowing this magnanimous man the more. Without knowing that his foresightedness was not only on human resource development but also on the holistic development of the entire Nandom. What a blessing God gave us!
I was indeed not taken aback when I finally met him in person after the primaries, though he doesn't know me well as I speak. His stature and facial expression alone was enough a justification to me that yes, this is a serious person who can transmogrified Nandom should he get the node into Parliament. I was vindicated when he started talking about the plans that were in the pipeline. As the holy book says, by their fruits we shall know them.
I actually developed more interest in getting closer to him when I realized that he was such a God fearing person. Sincerely speaking I was skeptical about his political career since politicians have gained the notoriety of being devilishly demonic. Later I got answer for myself from the Bible; 'All things are possible by God'. My earlier intention to get closer to him was impeded by the nature of the game as of then. As a wise and smart young intellectual, I refused to ignore what my instincts were telling me, that some people might see me us an opportunist who wants to use that period to probably attain personal gains so I quickly rescinded my intention and that is why till now Dr. doesn't know me properly.
As a results oriented and honest man, multitude of Nandome got attracted to him and fervently wished he became the next member of Parliament in the 2016 elections. God who is all knowing worked His ways through. Though sad, we still give thanks to God for how far He brought Dr. Richard Kuuire. I am always of the view that hon. Dr. Richard won that elections in a grand style though.
As a first time politician in the public eyes, the margin he was defeated by keeps encouraging and motivating me that one day he will sit on that seat. It was an unprecedented records he set in the history of this country. Why do I say so? I said because his political contender was a far more experienced politician who was once an MP and a former regional minister. Hon. Ambrose P. Dery, campaigned on what he did as a former MP as well as a former regional minister. He was already popular because of his past positions.
Hon. Dr. Kuuire however, campaigned on the massive developmental projects that were dotted across the length and breadth of this country executed by the erstwhile Mahama administration. What is more praise worthy and cannot go unnoticed was the numerous boreholes Dr. Richard Kuuire dug for Nandome though his financial mussel was feeble. The people were so elated that they didn't know how to show their appreciation than to overwhelmingly give him their support.
Also, the saying that the proof of wisdom is the wish to learn even from children abundantly manifested itself from this illustrious son of our land. The level of humility, respect, hardwork and commitment that characterizes his person cannot be overemphasied. All these attributes, I believed, contributed to the monumental support he got from the good people of Nandom.
Hon. Dr. Richard Kuuire, as today marks another milestone in your life, I wish to use this write up which serves as a projector to magnify the good job you did not forgetting the undying good intentions you still have for the good people of Nandom. I also want to use this piece to add my voice to the numerous people and all well wishers across the length and breadth of this country and beyond to wish you a happy birthday on this special day of yours. May you live long to accomplish your dream. May you also remain healthy to contribute more of your quota towards the development of Nandom and Ghana at large. Indeed, financial constraint and distant wouldn't permit me to join you and your comrades physically in the jollification and merriment this evening. But the fact is that I'm with you in spirit. This is the best I can do to celebrating you. HAPPY BIRTHDAY HON DR. RICHARD KUUIRE.
