The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) partnered with the Inter-Party Dialogue Committee (IPDC) to host the 2024 Parliamentary Candidates’ Dialogue in Upper Manya Krobo Constituency. This dialogue gathered significant stakeholders, including the Eastern Regional Director of the NCCE, Ms. Ophelia Nana Yaa Ankrah, her deputy, Mr. Augustine Bosrotsi, the Asesewa Police Commander, Supt. Francis Mensah, the District Fire Commander ADO1 Felix Bortier Angenu, the Zongo Chief, and several candidates such as the NDC’s Mr. Bismark Tetteh Nyarko. The main objective of the dialogue was to encourage constructive engagement among parliamentary candidates, enhance unity, and mitigate political tensions within the constituency. Participants had the opportunity to articulate their visions and policies relating to crucial areas, including education, employment, health, infrastructure, the economy, and agriculture, creating a more informed electorate leading up to the December 7, 2024 elections.
During the dialogue, Mr. Eric K. Yanney, the NCCE District Director, highlighted the significance of the event, clarifying that the platform was intended for constructive conversation rather than a debate. Unfortunately, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate chose not to attend, which Mr. Yanney noted as a missed opportunity for constituents to evaluate all candidates’ approaches and proposals. He emphasized that the forum’s nature was non-confrontational, aiming to foster dialogue rather than opposition or personal attacks. The dialogue was designed to allow constituents to ask pertinent questions regarding campaign promises, enhancing voters’ ability to make informed decisions ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections.
Superintendent Francis Mensah, the Asesewa Police Commander, asserted the importance of peaceful engagement, urging participants not to resort to violence simply due to differing political beliefs. As a member of the District Election Security Taskforce, he stressed that political affiliation should not lead to harassment or intimidation and warned the youth against engaging in electoral violence. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of ensuring safety at polling stations, suggesting that the police are equipped and prepared to safeguard the ballot boxes and maintain order on election day, thus promoting a conducive environment for the electoral process.
During the event, Mr. Nyarko laid out his proposed initiatives for the constituency, focusing on improvements in education, particularly through the development of community libraries and the rehabilitation of rundown schools. His plan also includes facilitating access to higher education for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) by completing neglected educational projects like the E-Blocks. Mr. Nyarko rallied support for former President John Dramani Mahama, encouraging constituents to vote for him as their parliamentary representative. This emphasis on educational development demonstrates a commitment to enhancing opportunities for his constituents and tackling pressing educational infrastructure challenges.
Speaking at the dialogue, Ms. Ophelia Nana Yaa Ankrah reinforced the call for political neutrality among governance institutions leading up to the elections. Highlighting the essential role these institutions play within the governance framework, she asserted that maintaining impartiality is critical for ensuring free and fair elections. Ms. Ankrah stressed the need for governance staff to operate within their mandates while actively providing checks and balances. Their commitment to transparency, accountability, and neutrality is paramount to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and instilling public trust.
In conclusion, the NCCE’s collaboration with the IPDC to facilitate the Parliamentary Candidates’ Dialogue reflects a commitment to enhancing political engagement and fostering an informed electorate in Upper Manya Krobo. By bringing together stakeholders from various backgrounds and offering a platform for dialogue, the NCCE aims to promote political unity and mitigate tensions ahead of the elections. The discussions underscored the importance of accountability and the role of governance institutions, signaling a collective effort to enhance the democratic process and ensure that all citizens can actively participate in shaping their political landscape without fear of violence or harassment. Ultimately, these initiatives contribute to building a more transparent, equitable, and participatory political environment in Ghana as the nation gears up for an important electoral year.
