Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, the AU High Representative for Silencing the Guns, has called on Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC) to uphold neutrality and transparency in the December 7 general election. He emphasized that all eyes are on the EC to conduct free, fair, and credible elections, reminding the Commission’s past performance does not guarantee future success.
Dr. Chambas stressed the need for the EC to reassure the public through impartial oversight.
The call for a peaceful electoral process was echoed at a series of National Stakeholders’ Forums, organized across Ghana in collaboration with the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) and the National Peace Council (NPC).
These forums, held in Tamale, Kumasi, Cape Coast, Ho, and Accra, gathered diverse stakeholders—including political leaders, civil society, and the judiciary-to foster trust and cooperation for a peaceful election.
UNOWAS Special Representative Leonardo Santos Simão underscored the collective responsibility to prevent violence and urged the inclusion of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in the democratic process.
Speaking at the final forum in Accra, Deputy UN Special Representative Barrie Freeman commended stakeholders’ dedication to peaceful elections that reflect the will of Ghanaians. She urged political leaders and supporters to mitigate risks that could jeopardize the electoral process, promoting an environment of trust and stability.
Dr. Chambas also highlighted the crucial role of Ghana’s security forces in maintaining peace before, during, and after the polls, and called for the judiciary to expedite electoral-related cases to prevent justice delays. He lauded Ghana’s recent ranking in the Mo Ibrahim Index of African Governance but reminded stakeholders that continued vigilance is essential to protect Ghana’s democratic gains.
Rev. Dr. Ernest Adu-Gyamfi, Chairman of the NPC, reinforced the importance of non-violence in resolving conflicts, encouraging all parties and citizens to uphold peace throughout the electoral process.
