Madam Kathleen Addy, Chairperson of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), has underscored the vital need for political parties and their supporters to foster peaceful coexistence as Ghana gears up for the general elections scheduled for December 7, 2024. During her visit to the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, Northern Region, where she met with the Overlord of Dagbon, Ndan Ya Na Abukari II, Addy remarked that peace is crucial for sustainable development. By ensuring a peaceful environment, the nation can effectively combat poverty and mitigate youth migration, encouraging younger generations to invest in Ghana’s growth. Her visit forms part of the NCCE’s broader effort to engage with traditional and religious leaders as part of its initiative to promote civic awareness and mitigate inflammatory rhetoric during the election campaign period, thereby safeguarding national tranquility.
The NCCE, established under Act 452 of 1993, is mandated to foster civic education and stimulate citizen engagement in governance, thereby creating a robust democracy. In her address to the Overlord, Addy praised his collaborative efforts with the NCCE in reinforcing peace and security within Yendi and beyond as the elections draw near. She urged Ghanaians from all walks of life to rally behind the NCCE’s mission, reinforcing the importance of promoting a peaceful electoral process not just for the current generation but for future Ghanaians. This communal effort is viewed as critical to the nation’s progress and development in the lead-up to the elections.
Ndan Ya Na Abukari II echoed Madam Addy’s sentiments by raising alarms over the escalating threats of lawlessness and violence associated with the impending elections. He emphasized the pressing need for decisive actions to thwart any potential crises that threaten the nation’s peace. The Overlord called for a collective responsibility among stakeholders, including traditional leaders and the NCCE, to heighten civic education efforts that would promote values of peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and issue-oriented campaigning. His assertion highlighted the crucial exchanges of duty that traditional authorities and institutions like the NCCE must undertake to educate citizens about their rights and civic responsibilities ahead of the elections.
Additionally, the Overlord pointed to the power of the Electoral Commission and its essential role in maintaining neutrality as it oversees the electoral process. He underscored the need for the NCCE to collaborate closely with traditional authorities in educating citizens about the voting process, electoral laws, and advocating for peaceful participation. The Overlord highlighted the importance of constructive dialogue between political rivals to ensure grievances are addressed and mutual understanding fostered. He advocated for the establishment of accessible and unbiased platforms aimed at resolving any electoral disputes, thereby minimizing tensions between conflicting parties.
Moreover, Abukari II underscored the imperative for the NCCE to enhance its engagement with media outlets to ensure fair reporting, fact-checking, and responsible journalism during election periods. The media, as he articulated, plays an instrumental role in hindering the proliferation of hate speech and misinformation, which can incite violence during politically charged periods. A collaborative relationship between the NCCE and media would empower the electorate and promote a climate conducive to transparency and peace, ultimately facilitating a successful electoral process.
In conclusion, both Madam Addy and the Overlord of Dagbon placed significant emphasis on the importance of civic education and community engagement in fostering a peaceful electoral atmosphere ahead of Ghana’s 2024 elections. Their discussions serve as a call to action for stakeholders across the board to prioritize initiatives that promote peace, tolerance, and informed civic participation. By nurturing dialogue, committing to unbiased electoral processes, and actively countering divisive narratives in the media, Ghanaian society can work collectively towards preserving peace and paving the way for sustainable national development in the years to come.
