The West African Elders Forum (WAEF), a distinguished assembly of seasoned statesmen and influential figures committed to fostering peace, democracy, and good governance across West Africa, dispatched an observation mission to Ghana in anticipation of the nation’s general elections scheduled for December 7th, 2024. Headed by former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, the delegation arrived in Accra, Ghana’s capital, on Wednesday to commence its pre-election assessment. The mission underscored the WAEF’s dedication to ensuring credible and transparent electoral processes across the region, recognizing Ghana’s crucial role as a democratic exemplar in West Africa. The delegation included prominent figures such as former Burkinabe Prime Minister and ECOWAS President Kadre Ouedraogo, along with key members of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation. Their presence signaled the importance of the upcoming elections not only for Ghana but also for the broader West African region.
The mission’s core objective was to contribute to a peaceful, free, and fair electoral process in Ghana. Former President Jonathan, speaking on behalf of the WAEF, emphasized the vital role of Ghanaian citizens in upholding democratic values and contributing to a transparent election. He urged the electorate to exercise their civic duty responsibly and peacefully, emphasizing the significance of their participation in strengthening Ghana’s democratic legacy. Recognizing the potential for tension during election periods, Jonathan appealed to the Ghanaian populace to prioritize national unity and peaceful coexistence. His message underscored the importance of accepting the electoral outcome, regardless of individual political affiliations, and pursuing any grievances through established legal channels.
Jonathan’s address also extended to key stakeholders in the electoral process. He called upon the Electoral Commission of Ghana to uphold its constitutional mandate by ensuring a credible and transparent election. This included emphasizing the importance of impartial conduct, rigorous adherence to electoral procedures, and open communication with all participating parties. Furthermore, he specifically addressed the security agencies, urging them to maintain neutrality and professionalism throughout the electoral period. Their role in safeguarding voting materials, protecting polling centers, and ensuring the safety of citizens was highlighted as crucial for maintaining a peaceful and orderly election.
The WAEF observation mission also recognized the critical role of political parties and candidates in shaping the electoral environment. Jonathan urged all political actors to conduct their campaigns peacefully, eschewing hate speech, inflammatory rhetoric, and personal attacks. He emphasized the importance of respecting the integrity of the electoral process, urging all parties to commit to resolving any disputes that might arise through legal and constitutional channels. This call for peaceful campaigning and adherence to the rule of law was central to the WAEF’s message, emphasizing the importance of preserving stability and democratic norms throughout the electoral cycle.
Recognizing the potential influence of youth and party supporters, the WAEF specifically addressed this demographic. Jonathan called upon young people to refrain from acts of violence or intimidation before, during, and after the elections. He stressed the importance of their participation in the democratic process but cautioned against any actions that could undermine the integrity of the elections. The message underscored the vital role of youth in shaping Ghana’s future and encouraged them to contribute positively to the democratic process. This appeal reflected the WAEF’s broader commitment to nurturing youth leadership and promoting peaceful civic engagement across West Africa.
Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa was a recurring theme in Jonathan’s pronouncements. He described Ghana as a model for the region and urged its citizens to safeguard this legacy by rejecting violence, intimidation, and any actions that could compromise the integrity of the electoral process. The upcoming elections, he emphasized, presented an opportunity for Ghanaians to reaffirm their commitment to democratic principles, stability, and continued development. Jonathan’s message highlighted the substantial progress Ghana has made in consolidating its democracy and the importance of preserving these gains for future generations. The WAEF, through its presence and pronouncements, affirmed its support for Ghana’s democratic journey and its commitment to assisting the nation in consolidating its democratic gains.
