As Ghana prepares for its December 7 general election, Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, African Union (AU) High Representative for Silencing the Guns, has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to ensure neutrality, transparency, and credibility in its conduct.
Speaking at the fifth National Peace Council (NPC) Stakeholders’ Dialogue in Accra, Dr. Chambas highlighted the EC’s central role in leading the electoral process and fostering public trust.
“I need not say that right now, all the spotlight is on the EC. They will be in the lead,” he remarked.
Dr. Chambas urged the EC to act as impartial referees, noting that although past elections had been conducted with high marks, past success does not guarantee future performance. The dialogue, organized by the Peace Council in partnership with the United Nations Office for West Africa and Sahel (UNOWAS), focused on “Building Trust among Stakeholders for a Peaceful 2024 General Elections in Ghana.”
Ensuring security and fairness
Dr. Chambas extended his appeal to the police and security agencies, emphasizing the need for peace and order before, during, and after the elections.
He also highlighted the role of the judiciary in maintaining fairness and justice, cautioning that “justice delayed is justice denied,” and urged for timely, impartial adjudication in electoral matters.
The judiciary’s role, he said, will be key to addressing any disputes in a way that reflects the rule of law.
Strengthening Ghana’s democratic reputation
In his address, Dr. Chambas pointed to Ghana’s ranking in the 2024 Mo Ibrahim Index of African Governance, where it achieved the seventh position across Africa.
This, he said, underscores Ghana’s democratic progress, but also reminds the country of the need for continued vigilance and commitment to democratic principles.
“Ghana being among the top 10 in Africa is a significant achievement,” Dr. Chambas said, cautioning that there is still work to be done to preserve Ghana’s position as a beacon of democracy in Africa. “It only means we should all remain vigilant,” he added.
Dialogue promotes collaborative peace efforts
Reverend Dr. Ernest Adu-Gyamfi, NPC Chairman, called on political parties, institutions, and citizens to address conflicts non-violently, reinforcing the theme of shared responsibility in safeguarding Ghana’s peace and stability.
“Let us all put our hands together and ensure that once again, after all is said and done, the winner will be Ghana,” he said, urging stakeholders to focus on the unity and prosperity of the nation.
The dialogue marks a continued effort by the Peace Council, which has held similar events across Ghana to foster collaboration among political actors and institutions.
With national unity as a guiding principle, stakeholders remain committed to ensuring a peaceful election season.
