Ghanaians are urged by the National Peace Council to maintain peace before the 2024 elections.

As Ghanaians prepare to cast their votes on Saturday, December 7, 2024, the National Peace Council (NPC) has called on all stakeholders to uphold peace and protect the country’s status as a model of democracy in Africa.

The Council urged voters, political parties, electoral officials, and security agencies to work together to ensure a smooth and peaceful electoral process, emphasizing the importance of unity, tolerance, and vigilance.

Janet Sarney-Kuma, the Director of Capacity Development & Outreach, expressed concern about rising political polarization.

“There’s a tendency for people from opposing political parties to dismiss each other’s views outright. This lack of tolerance creates unnecessary divisions,” she said.

Alexander Koomson, Deputy Director of Research, Monitoring & Evaluation, cautioned against the exploitation of ethnic and communal differences for political gain. He criticized certain individuals he described as “conflict entrepreneurs” for using divisive tactics to achieve electoral success, warning that such actions undermine national unity.

Fouzia Issifu, Assistant Programme Manager at the Upper East Regional Peace Council, appealed to young voters to resist being used as tools for political violence.

“Youth must avoid being radicalized or drawn into violent acts by any politician. Vote peacefully, return home, and remember that we are one people with one Ghana. Let peace and love guide us,” she urged.

The NPC emphasized that its peacebuilding initiatives, while heightened during elections, are part of its ongoing commitment to promoting harmony across Ghana’s 16 regions.

As the nation approaches election day, the Council expressed optimism about a credible and peaceful process, calling on all citizens to reject divisive rhetoric and focus on Ghana’s collective progress and stability.