The Council of Zongo Chiefs in the Ashanti Region has urged Ghanaians to make peace a top priority and to support democratic practices leading up to the upcoming December 7 general elections.
The Council’s president, Naba Musah Akanbonga, stressed the importance of promoting tolerance and dialogue among electoral stakeholders in an official statement released on Thursday, October 24. The Council urged for a peaceful and transparent conduct of the upcoming elections.
The statement emphasized the importance of collaboration between Political Parties, Civil Society Organizations, and the media with the Electoral Commission (EC) in finding solutions to issues and reaching agreements on the way forward.
Below is the full statement:
THE COUNCIL OF ZONGO CHIEFS URGES ALL POLITICAL ACTORS TO STAY CALM AND HONOR THE DEMOCRATIC PROCEDURES LEADING UP TO THE DECEMBER ELECTIONS.
As Ghana prepares for the upcoming December 7, 2024 General Elections, the Council of Zongo Chiefs in the Ashanti Region is stressing the significance of peace and adherence to democratic processes. This includes ensuring all Political Parties and their supporters uphold these values.
This year’s elections represent the ninth general elections held in the country since the Fourth Republic began in 1992. Political actors must recognize that a successful democracy depends on peaceful coexistence and respect for the electoral system.
As respected leaders in our communities, we call on political parties to properly inform their supporters about the importance of participating peacefully in the electoral process. Engaging in constructive dialogue is crucial in setting a positive example, as opposed to resorting to violence or coercion.
Ghana has a history characterized by successful peaceful elections and democratic transitions, serving as a model for other countries to emulate. It is essential for every citizen to uphold this legacy by fostering unity and mutual understanding among the various cultural, religious, and political factions within the country.
Let us all pledge to promote a culture of tolerance and open communication as we prepare for the upcoming elections, ensuring they are carried out in a peaceful and transparent manner in the name of democracy.
The Council urges Political Parties, Civil Society Organizations, and the media to work closely with the Electoral Commission (EC) to address issues and reach consensus on how to move forward in good faith.
The Council urges the EC to actively pursue collaborations and to be open to feedback and suggestions that can improve the electoral process. We can work together to uphold the values of democracy in Ghana and ensure a promising future for the country.
