Kathleen Addy, Chairperson of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), has expressed deep concern over the growing willingness of Ghanaians to engage in election-related violence.
This alarming trend was revealed in a recent NCCE report on voter concerns, which showed that some voters are prepared to resort to violence to advance party interests or respond to perceived electoral malpractice.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, October 23, Addy emphasized the urgent need to strengthen government institutions to restore public trust in the electoral process and prevent violence.
She noted that it is disturbing to see individuals openly expressing willingness to participate in violent activities, and this should be a source of worry for all well-meaning Ghanaians.
According to Addy, the willingness to engage in violence is often fueled by a lack of confidence in the electoral process and the institutions responsible for governing it.
To address this issue, she stressed the importance of building confidence in these institutions and promoting peaceful conflict resolution mechanisms.
Addy highlighted the critical role of institutions like the Peace Council in resolving electoral disputes peacefully.
She emphasized that people should understand that there are established channels for resolving conflicts and that violence is not an acceptable solution.
At the polling stations, Addy noted that only designated party representatives should be present to ensure fair voting processes. This, she believes, will help prevent unnecessary tensions and conflicts that could escalate into violence.
The NCCE report’s findings are troubling, as election-related violence can have severe consequences on society, including loss of life, destruction of property, and erosion of trust in democratic institutions.
It’s crucial for Ghanaians to recognize the dangers of violence and work towards promoting peaceful elections.
To achieve this, Addy called on all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and individuals, to work together to build confidence in the electoral process.
She emphasized that promoting peaceful elections requires a collective effort and a commitment to democratic values.
The NCCE, as a key institution responsible for promoting civic education and democratic values, will continue to play a critical role in promoting peaceful elections.
Through its programs and initiatives, the commission aims to educate citizens on the importance of peaceful conflict resolution and the dangers of election-related violence.
As Ghana prepares for future elections, it’s essential to address the growing willingness to engage in violence.
By reinforcing government institutions, promoting conflict resolution mechanisms, and educating citizens on the importance of peaceful elections, Ghana can ensure democratic stability and prevent election-related violence.
Addy’s call to action serves as a reminder that promoting peaceful elections requires a sustained effort from all stakeholders. By working together, Ghanaians can build a more peaceful and democratic society, where elections are seen as a celebration of democracy, rather than a source of conflict.
