Alhaji Salisu Maude, the Chairman of Zango Youth Chiefs and President of the Zango Youth Dialogue with Police Project, recently highlighted the initiatives being undertaken by youth leaders in Zango communities nationwide to promote peace ahead of the forthcoming general elections scheduled for December 7. In a recent interview with BBC Hausa radio, Maude asserted the importance of peace during this critical time and shared that outreach programs are being organized to remind the Zango youth of their role as peacekeepers. The initiative aims to prevent any potential unrest linked to the elections, reflecting a proactive stance on ensuring a smooth electoral process.
Maude encouraged Zango youth to embrace the role of peace ambassadors, working actively to foster a peaceful atmosphere during the election period. Plans to engage the public through various media, including radio, television, and social media, are set to reinforce the message of peace throughout the communities. Aware of the historical context of election violence, he underscored the essential need for preventative measures and education, urging youth to reject political affiliations that could incite disorder or violence. His rationale stresses the importance of a united response from youth chiefs in opposing divisive political acts.
The need for a comprehensive and harmonious approach among the Zango communities is underscored in Maude’s remarks. He recognizes that peace is a universal aspiration and expressed that Zango youth must take a proactive stance in its preservation. This sense of responsibility is particularly crucial in light of incidents of violence associated with recent political disputes, such as the confrontations between members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Maamobi, which escalated to shootings. Maude praised the timely intervention of the Ghana Police Service in these matters, demonstrating the importance of law enforcement in mitigating such conflicts.
Highlighting the threat posed by political unrest, Maude stated that Zango youth should not engage in actions that could tarnish their reputation or that of their communities. He reminded them that Ghana has a track record of successful and peaceful elections, and with collective effort, this year should not deviate from that norm. His call for active involvement stresses the necessity of collaboration among youth and other key stakeholders to foster peace advocacy throughout Ghana. He implores youth to hold themselves accountable for their actions, emphasizing their crucial role in shaping the nation’s stability.
The overarching message emphasized by Maude is one of unity, responsibility, and proactivity within Zango communities to safeguard peace. With the backdrop of the upcoming elections, it is paramount that the youth establish themselves as nation builders and advocates of peace. His initiative seeks not only to protect the integrity of the Zango name but also to contribute positively to Ghana’s democratic processes. The combined efforts across various platforms aim to uphold the ideals of peace and stability necessary for a successful electoral outcome.
In conclusion, as the clock ticks towards the December elections, Sarki Salisu Maude’s leadership and commitment to promoting peace within Zango youth exemplify a vital construct for civil engagement in Ghana’s democratic process. His emphasis on unity among youth leaders and the rejection of divisive political provocations offers a clear path toward ensuring violence-free elections, ultimately striving to foster a culture of peace and cooperation in the Zango communities and beyond. Such proactive measures envision a harmonious electoral landscape that echoes Ghana’s democratic values, paving the way for future generations to uphold the ideals of peace and mutual respect.
