Representatives from the five Regional Houses of Chiefs and Queen Mothers in Northern Ghana, as well as Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Regional Peace Councils, have come together to advocate for peace and security ahead of the 2024 general elections. This initiative reflects an understanding among these key stakeholders that without peace, the advantages of democracy and development cannot be realized. Recognizing the critical value of peace in society, they issued a communiqué following a conference entitled “Peace and Security in Northern Ghana ahead of the 2024 General Elections,” which took place in Tamale. The conference was organized by the STAR Ghana Foundation and supported by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office. It assembled various stakeholders, including officials from the Electoral Commission (EC) and the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), who collectively underscored the importance of nurturing a peaceful electoral environment as essential for democratic governance.
The vital message given by Naa Dr. Jacob Mahama in the communiqué highlighted the necessity of not only achieving a violence-free electoral process but also establishing enduring peace throughout Northern Ghana that surpasses the election period itself. The region has experienced recurrent conflicts that have had a detrimental impact on its development. The communiqué articulated that effective collaboration among all stakeholders is essential for achieving peaceful and successful elections. The participants called for open communication and consensus-building concerning major decisions affecting the elections, including transitional arrangements thereafter. This collective effort is viewed as a pathway to mitigating potential disputes and ensuring a stable electoral framework.
Moreover, the communiqué stressed the importance of equipping security agencies with the necessary logistics to ensure that they can perform their duties effectively during the electoral period. It emphasized that security personnel must exhibit diligence and professionalism while maintaining impartiality in their actions. Regardless of any political affiliations, police and security forces are called to enforce the law with fairness and decisiveness against any individuals intending to disrupt the peace. Responsible reporting by the media was also a focus, as participants urged journalists to adhere to ethical standards, avoid sensationalism and the promotion of violence, and refrain from broadcasting political messages involving minors, which could evoke harmful consequences.
In terms of the electoral management, the communiqué acknowledged the Electoral Commission’s preparations so far and urged the EC to engage in thorough consultations to address any stakeholder concerns prior to the elections. The communiqué emphasizes the necessity for the EC to ensure that the electoral process is free, fair, and transparent. By maintaining effective communication during the results release, the EC can help assuage public anxiety and reinforce the credibility of the electoral process. This proactive approach is deemed important for sustaining public confidence in democratic institutions.
The role of political parties was also underlined, with a call for them to exercise caution with their language and conduct during the final days leading up to the elections. Parties are encouraged to avoid personal attacks and vigilantism that may escalate tensions and violence among their supporters. Recognition was given to parties that have actively encouraged a calm and orderly presence at polling stations and collation centers, along with a reminder to refrain from prematurely announcing results before official certification to prevent chaos and disorder. This measured approach is critical for fostering a non-violent electoral atmosphere.
Finally, all Ghanaians were called upon to embrace their right to vote peacefully and resist manipulation by politicians who may attempt to incite violence. The communiqué underscored that elections should focus on choices made calmly and respectfully, with consideration for all voters. The ultimate message promotes peace and cooperation as fundamental to ensuring the stability and unity of the nation, culminating in a recommendation for all stakeholders to strive for a peaceful transition of power, regardless of the outcome. This conveys a clear understanding that the essence of democracy in Ghana lies in mutual respect and harmonious electoral practices that uphold the nation’s stability during these crucial times.
