By Gloria Anderson
The Eminent Persons Group (EPG) of the Christian Council of Ghana has made a strong appeal for peace, transparency, and justice as Ghana prepares for the crucial presidential and parliamentary elections on December 7, 2024.
The group, at a media engagement as part of its planned activities to ensure a transparent and fair election urged political parties, state institutions, and citizens to work collectively to uphold the nation’s democratic principles and maintain its legacy of peaceful elections.
The EPG, which includes leaders from both Christian and Muslim communities, has spent the past three months engaging key stakeholders, including Inspector-General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, Deputy Chairperson of the Electoral Commission Dr. Bossman Asare, and representatives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP), with the mission to foster collaboration and commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.
The CO Chair of the group, Most Rev. Paul K.Boafo who addresses the media appealed to political leaders and their supporters to embrace tolerance and unity, warning against inflammatory rhetoric that could incite violence.
“Peace must be a priority, and leaders must lead by example,” the statement emphasized.
The EPG urged the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies to maintain impartiality and professionalism. Dr. Dampare assured the group that security personnel are prepared to ensure citizens can vote without fear or intimidation.
The group also highlighted the importance of justice, calling on institutions like the Judiciary, CHRAJ, and the National Peace Council to deliver fairness and protect the integrity of the elections.
The Electoral Commission was reminded of its responsibility to ensure transparency at all levels of the process. The EPG urged the Commission to avoid errors that could lead to mistrust, engage with civil society groups, and provide timely communication to foster public confidence.
Acknowledging the media’s influence, the EPG called for responsible reporting devoid of sensationalism or bias. It also appealed to the Executive Arm of Government to prioritize national interests over partisan politics to create a conducive environment for free and fair elections.
As faith leaders, the EPG grounded its message in Christian and Islamic teachings, urging Ghanaians to work together regardless of political or ethnic differences. Quoting Matthew 5:9 and Quran 2:272, the group encouraged citizens to be peacemakers and uphold their moral responsibilities.
The EPG reaffirm its impartial stance and commitment to democracy and urged Ghanaians to reject violence, report malpractice, and protect the country’s peace.
“Let us demonstrate our collective commitment to democracy and ensure Ghana remains a beacon of peace in West Africa,” the group declared.
