The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) North Gonja office has organized an inter-party dialogue to foster unity and ensure a peaceful electoral process. The event which took place on Friday, September 6, 2024, was held at the Assembly of God Church in Daboya, with support from the European Union (EU) under the “Preventing and Containing Violent Extremism Action in the Savannah Region of Ghana (PCVE)” initiative, ahead of the 2024 general elections.
The dialogue brought together leaders from various political parties, security personnel, civil society groups, and local authorities to discuss strategies for promoting peace and preventing electoral violence.
Speaking at the event, the Savannah Regional NCCE Director, Mr. Issahaka Zitor, urged political leaders to embrace a peaceful transfer of power and ensure stability and continuity in the country’s democratic process.
“By engaging in peaceful elections, we can ensure a democratic, free, and fair process that respects the will of the people and builds a stronger, more united society,” he said.
The NCCE North Gonja District Director, Mr. Matthew Dute, also called on political party leaders to involve the youth in peace-building efforts to minimize their involvement in electoral violence.
“Addressing the concerns of the youth can reduce grievances that might lead to violence. Engaging them in peace promotion ensures sustainable peace beyond the electoral cycle,” he noted.
Security concerns were also highlighted during the event, with the North Gonja District Police Commander, ASP Abraham Azeka, assuring attendees of the security forces’ commitment to ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
“We will perform our duties professionally, transparently, and in accordance with the law to ensure a credible and peaceful election,” he stated.
Representatives from political parties also shared their views. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Election Research Officer for the Daboya-Mankarigu constituency, endorsed a policy against using state property for political campaign purposes, arguing that such actions violate democratic principles. Similarly, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Research Officer for the same constituency, Mr. Saaka Lukman Kamoar, urged candidates to conduct issue-based campaigns and avoid personal attacks or damaging opponents’ properties.
The dialogue session saw participation from various stakeholders, including security personnel, religious leaders, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Electoral Commission officials, traditional authorities, women’s groups, youth groups, and representatives from the North Gonja District Assembly.
By: Saeed Kagbal/newsalertgh.com
