The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has urged political parties to maintain tolerance and conduct their campaigns with civility to ensure peace before, during, and after the 2024 election.
Garu District Director of the Commission, Samuel Akolgo, emphasized the crucial role of political parties in maintaining peace ahead of the election. He urged party leadership to cultivate tolerance and promote peace.
Akolgo stressed the importance of political parties being civil and respectful in their communication to foster peace and tranquility.
The call was made during an Inter-Party Dialogue Committee (IPDC) meeting in Garu, which brought together stakeholders including security agencies, political parties, the Electoral Commission, women, youth, persons with disabilities, and others.
Organized by the NCCE as part of the European Union-sponsored project “Preventing and Containing Violent Extremism (PCVE),” the meeting aimed to raise awareness about violent extremism and promote security consciousness, social inclusiveness, community cohesion, and situational awareness for peace building and sustainable development.
Mr Akolgo acknowledged that disagreements are normal but emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve differences and prevent escalation. He highlighted the challenge of violent extremism and the importance of not allowing extremists to exploit volatile situations to destabilize the country.
“I appeal particularly to political parties to always resort to the use of dialogue in settling differences to promote peace and social cohesion, free, fair, and peaceful general elections this year,” he added.
The Garu District Chief Executive, Mr. Haruna Ali, emphasized the critical importance of peace in accelerating the development needed in Ghana. He urged Ghanaians to remain vigilant and safeguard the country against the threats of terrorism.
“I made a solemn promise to the political parties that government will take the necessary measures to preserve their safety, and security in the upcoming general elections. We recognise that we must prevent and combat violent extremist groups and terrorists who threaten the security of our country, and protect our national interests from such attacks,” he said.
Assistant Superintendent of Police Mr. Victor Gakpey, the Garu District Police Commander, provided training on monitoring and reporting threats and vulnerabilities to violent extremism. He also discussed detecting youth radicalization, signs of recruitment, and empowered participants with mediation and conflict resolution mechanisms.
Mr. Gakpey urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the security agencies.
Mr. David Amoah, the District Director of the Electoral Commission, advised political parties to avoid making negative comments that could incite tension and undermine the electoral process.
He assured the parties that the Electoral Commission would create a conducive environment for free, fair, and transparent elections. Mr. Amoah encouraged parties to focus on constructive campaigning, presenting their policies and visions in a way that promotes unity and respect among voters.