The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has urged politicians to accept the outcome of the upcoming 2024 general elections peacefully and desist from orchestrating any activity that would jeopardize the country’s peace.
Speaking at the Awukudae Festival on November 20, the revered monarch called for national unity and adherence to democratic principles while emphasizing patience and faith in God’s timing.
“We pray to God. We want a peaceful election. We do not want any violence. Tell everyone because of the power of God, Ghana will continue to exist. We have it in our constitution that we will hold our elections every four years. There are people who have lost in previous elections. They have been patient to contest several times. You have to be patient for your time because if it is God’s plan, you will win,” Otumfuo said.
His appeal comes as Ghana prepares for the December 7 elections, with less than 15 days to the polls. Concerns about potential electoral violence remain high following clashes in past elections that claimed several lives. Prior to the polls, political parties sign a peace pact, however, it has not been so this year as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has decided against it, citing unfairness in past electoral process and lack of justice to those who died in the 2020 general elections.
To mitigate such risks, security services, particularly the Ghana Police Service, have implemented robust measures to ensure a peaceful, free, and fair election. Among these initiatives is the inauguration of a National Election Security Taskforce Press Briefing Centre to combat misinformation during the electoral process.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare underscored the importance of curbing false information. He urged media practitioners to partner with the police to maintain public trust and protect the democratic process.
Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission (EC) has assured Ghanaians of timely results declaration. Dr. Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairman in charge of Corporate Services, confirmed that the presidential election results would be announced within 72 hours after polls close.
“By convention, we work within 72 hours, and I believe we are going to work within the 72 hours to ensure that Ghanaians know the outcome of the presidential election,” Dr. Asare stated.
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