The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) and the Inter-Party Dialogue Committee (IPDC) in the South Tongu District of the Volta Region have initiated promising endeavors aimed at promoting civic engagement and strengthening democratic values in anticipation of the 2024 elections. Recognizing the significance of these upcoming elections as a pivotal moment for Ghana’s democracy, both organizations are focused on educating citizens about the integral role they play in the electoral process. Their collective efforts are designed to ensure that the elections occur peacefully, with a particular emphasis on the importance of integrity and active participation among the electorate. Mr. Seth Fiagorme, the NCCE Director for South Tongu, has taken the lead in this initiative, engaging with various community groups, including church members and youth organizations, to foster awareness about the impact of money in politics and to advocate for non-violence during the electoral period.
During these discussions, Mr. Fiagorme emphasized that Ghana’s stable democracy is not just a matter of political structure; rather, it is a collective achievement necessitating the active participation and commitment of every individual. He underscored that the forthcoming general elections represent a key test for the country’s democratic resilience. “Our actions before, during, and after the elections will demonstrate to the world our commitment to a multiparty democracy,” he stated. This call to action aims not only to galvanize support for democratic values but also to remind citizens of their fundamental role in shaping the electoral landscape through informed and responsible participation.
One of the critical areas highlighted during these engagements is the need to combat election-related violence, misinformation, and disinformation. Mr. Fiagorme urged citizens to play their part in ensuring a transparent and fair electoral process by verifying information before dissemination. He noted the dangerous potential of false information to distort public understanding and incite conflict, making it imperative for the youth and general public to prioritize accuracy and credibility in the information they consume and share. Furthermore, he announced that the NCCE and IPDC are collaborating closely to maintain peace throughout the election period, reinforcing the idea that maintaining democratic integrity is a shared responsibility.
Supporting Mr. Fiagorme’s message, Mr. Ben Agbeyesro, a youth representative from the IPDC, called upon young people to reject involvement in election malpractice, including vote-selling, bribery, impersonation, and accepting illicit gifts to sway votes. His message resonated strongly, as he implored the youth not to become pawns for political parties seeking to incite violence or disruption. By emphasizing personal agency and responsibility, Mr. Agbeyesro aimed to inspire young voters to remain vigilant and ethical, reinforcing their crucial role as pillars of democracy in the community.
The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive, with both youth and congregation members pledging to uphold and protect Ghana’s democratic principles eagerly. This commitment reflects a growing awareness among citizens about the potential threats to democracy and the importance of safeguarding it through active engagement and integrity. The leaders from NCCE and IPDC have successfully fostered a sense of ownership among the populace, reinforcing the view that democracy is not merely a governmental framework but a collective endeavor that requires vigilance and engagement from every citizen.
As Ghana approaches the 2024 elections, the concerted efforts of the NCCE and IPDC will play a crucial role in shaping the electoral climate, encouraging civic-mindedness, and fostering a peaceful atmosphere for elections. Their initiatives aim not only to educate but also to empower citizens to stand firmly against electoral misconduct and violence, thereby reinforcing the foundations of Ghanaian democracy. The active participation of young people, in particular, will be vital, as they embody the future of the nation’s democratic aspirations. Through these initiatives, the hope is to cultivate a culture of peace and respect for democratic values that can guide the country through the upcoming electoral process and beyond.
