Catholic Voices GH recently organized a significant choral concert titled “Ghana Asomdwoe,” which translates to “Ghana’s Peace.” Held at the Old Magistrate Court in Wawasi, Obuasi, the concert aimed to promote peace in the lead-up to the General Election scheduled for December 7 in the Obuasi East Constituency. This event attracted a diverse audience, including members from both the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), alongside clergy, civil society organizations, members of the Ghana Police, media representatives, and the general public. The concert served as a powerful unifying call for tranquility during the sensitive electoral period, emphasizing the need for cooperative efforts to ensure a peaceful democratic process.
During the event, Mr. Joseph Owusu-Addo, the Executive Director of Catholic Voices GH, articulated the critical importance of maintaining peace as the elections approach. He expressed his views in a post-event interview, stating, “As we approach the elections, it is vital that we all commit to maintaining peace in our communities. Violence and division have no place in our democracy.” His message resonated strongly with the audience, reinforcing a collective responsibility to foster a peaceful atmosphere as the nation navigates the electoral season. The concert embodied this ethos and acted as a reminder of the virtues of unity and harmony within society.
The concert showcased an array of performances by the host choir Catholic Voices GH, along with the guest choir Dom Peace Chorale. Both choirs captivated the audience with a selection of harmonious and patriotic songs, creating a profound emotional connection with the attendees. The musical presentations not only entertained but also served as a medium through which the message of peace and unity was amplified. Those in attendance left the concert feeling inspired, with a renewed commitment to collective action in nurturing peace within their communities.
The presence of various stakeholders, including key representatives from the NPP and NDC, further emphasized the concert’s call for peaceful elections. Notable figures such as Hon. Patrick Boakye Yiadom, the Member of Parliament for Obuasi East and NPP parliamentary candidate for the 2024 elections, spoke alongside Mr. William Kofi Adzowu, the Constituency General Secretary from the NDC. Their shared commitment to ensuring a calm electoral environment highlighted a rare moment of bipartisan unity focused on a common goal: the desire for peace and safety during the electoral process. Additionally, personnel from the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), and Rev. Fr. John Calistus Sannah of the Obuasi Diocese, contributed to the discussions, enhancing the event’s overarching theme of peace.
As the concert progressed, messages delivered by various speakers resonated with the audience, echoing the sentiments of hope and tranquility that underscored the event. The performers, alongside the speakers, reiterated the importance of peace not just in the context of the upcoming elections but as a continuous aspiration that should guide the behavior and actions of citizens. The collaborative commitment shown by individuals from different political affiliations and societal roles illustrated a collective understanding that peace is fundamental to a vibrant democracy.
Ultimately, as the event concluded, attendees departed with a renewed sense of hope and a commitment to champion peace both during the electoral season and beyond. The “Ghana Asomdwoe” concert transcended being merely an event; it was a heartfelt plea for harmony in a time when it is most essential. By bringing together various segments of society and promoting open dialogue, the concert successfully reminded participants of their shared responsibility in nurturing peace and building a better future for all Ghanaians.
