A former General Secretary of the Christian Council, Dr. Kwabena Opuni Frimpong, has called on political parties to commit to zero tolerance for electoral violence and associated deaths in the upcoming December 7 polls.
Speaking at the Regional Peace Summit in Techiman, Dr. Frimpong described the electoral violence that claimed eight lives during the 2020 presidential and parliamentary elections as unfortunate.
“Our elections have been characterized by electoral violence, especially electoral death. Unfortunately, in Techiman, they witnessed that during the 2020 elections. Now, together with all the key stakeholders, we want to commit to zero tolerance for electoral deaths – that is our message,” he advised.
Collective commitment
Rev. Dr. Opuni-Frimpong stated that as the campaign season kicks off, there was a need for all stakeholders, especially political party leaders, to come on board to emphasise the importance of ensuring that the country does not experience any violence before, during and after this year’s presidential and parliamentary polls.
“We must go through the election peacefully. We know every election has some form of tension, but it should not lead to death. Ghanaians must not lose their lives because somebody is becoming a Member of Parliament or a President,” he added.
President’s pledge
Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo has pledged to ensure that the 2024 general election is transparent, free, fair and without violence.
He has therefore cautioned individuals plotting to foment trouble during the election to reconsider their actions, stressing that he would not tolerate any act of violence.
“We are going to elect a leader; we are not going to war. I want them to understand that my government will not allow any nation-wrecker to plunge this country into a state of war and anarchy because of the election,” he stated.
“The election will be transparent and fair, ensuring that the verdict will be accepted by all, regardless of who wins or loses,” he assured.
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