Rev. Professor Emmanuel Yao Nash, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Peace Awards (GPA), has lauded the National Peace Council (NPC) for its instrumental role in facilitating the signing of the 2024 Peace Pact by various political parties and their presidential candidates. This significant development includes twelve presidential candidates, notably Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and John Dramani Mahama from the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The signing of the Peace Pact reflects these candidates’ strong commitment to promoting peace throughout the electoral process, especially as the country approaches the critical December 7 elections. Rev. Professor Nash emphasized the importance of this initiative and its potential to shape the mindset, behaviors, and campaign strategies of both the candidates and their supporters during this pivotal period.
The NPC’s initiative has been commended by Rev. Professor Nash for its capacity to foster a positive electoral climate. He expressed optimism that the commitment demonstrated through the signing of the Pact would translate into adherence to electoral rules and regulations. Such compliance is crucial for maintaining peace before, during, and after the elections. By actively participating in this process, candidates are encouraged to prioritize peaceful conduct and demonstrate ethical leadership, thereby enhancing the overall electoral experience for the citizens of Ghana. Rev. Professor Nash’s hopes rest on the belief that adherence to the commitments made in the Peace Pact will mitigate electoral tensions and promote a culture of respect among the political fraternity.
In his address, Rev. Professor Nash reiterated a notable proposal regarding visa restrictions. He called on embassies in Ghana to impose visa restrictions on politicians and key figures associated with the Electoral Commission, including Chairperson Jean Mensa and her deputies. The aim is to ensure accountability during the electoral process. He suggested that these officials, along with their families, temporarily refrain from traveling abroad prior to the elections, emphasizing that such measures could foster a sense of responsibility and peace among political actors. This recommendation arises from a research project conducted by the GPA, which underscores the need for proactive measures to enhance the peace landscape in Ghana.
Rev. Professor Nash noted that the recommendation for visa restrictions has been successfully implemented in several other countries, particularly in tactical contexts similar to Ghana’s. He cited examples from various African and European nations, emphasizing the precedence for these measures, notably taken by the U.S. Embassy in addressing potential threats to democratic processes. He pointed out the need for proactive engagement from global partners to ensure that democracy is safeguarded in Ghana, which aligns with broader international frameworks aimed at promoting stable governance.
In light of the upcoming elections, Rev. Professor Nash underscored the necessity of cooperation among key stakeholders, including the Election Security Taskforce, the Electoral Commission, political parties, and the media. Each group has a pivotal role in fostering an environment conducive to peace during the electoral process. He highlighted that a transparent, free, and fair election is central to reflecting the genuine will of the electorate. By meeting these standards, stakeholders can play a vital role in upholding Ghana’s democratic values and integrity during a period often fraught with tension and uncertainty.
Concluding his remarks, Rev. Professor Nash invoked a prayer for a peaceful electoral process, articulating his hope for Ghana to maintain its reputation as a bastion of democracy in the region. His optimism reflects a broader aspiration for collective efforts to ensure that the 2024 elections not only uphold the tenets of democracy but also serve as a model for other nations facing similar challenges. With a united commitment to the principles established in the Peace Pact, there lies potential for a successful electoral cycle that prioritizes the interests of the citizens and strengthens the nation’s democratic framework.
