By Philip Tengzu
Gwollu (UW/R), Sept. 24, GNA – The Sissala West District Inter-Party Dialogue Committee (IPDC) has advocated for collective action and commitment to strengthening the democratic processes of the country ahead of the December 7 general elections.
It said that would help promote peaceful coexistence within the district and Ghana to propel the anticipated development in the country.
Mr Jerobaoam Samale, the Chairman of the Sissala West District IPDC, said this in Gwollu during a meeting of the committee to discuss critical issues necessary for maintaining and promoting peace in the country.
The Sissala West District office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) organised the meeting as part of the second phase of the IPDC to build on the foundational discussions of the committee during its first phase meeting.
It was under the Preventing and Containing Violent Extremism (PCVE) in Northern Regions of Ghana project implemented by the NCCE with funding from the European Union (EU).
The discussions centred on countering violent extremism, misinformation, and disinformation, promoting religious and political tolerance, and discouraging vote buying.
“The role of dialogue in Ghana’s democratic journey cannot be overstated since it offers an opportunity for stakeholders to address concerns and share perspectives, which are vital in nurturing a robust democratic culture where every voice is heard and every opinion is valued,” Mr Samale said.
He encouraged the IPDC members to approach issues with open minds and a spirit of collaboration to promote peace, social cohesion, and participatory governance in the district.
Mr Mustapha Iddrisu, the Sissala West District Director of the NCCE, said the initiative formed part of the Commission’s strategies towards preventing violent extremism and ensuring the 2024 election was peaceful.
“This meeting will offer the opportunity for stakeholders to identify and address actions and happenings in the district that serve as potential threats to the peace and stability of the district before, during and after the upcoming 2024 elections,” Mr Iddrisu added.
He urged all stakeholders to support and actively participate in the NCCE’s activities to ensure active citizens’ participation in the governance process and safeguard the country’s peace, security, and democracy.
Chief Inspector Hamidu Baba of the Sissala West District Police Command, said the spread of misinformation and disinformation in recent times had been a significant contributor to political tension in the district, and a major challenge for the police in its intelligence gathering.
He stressed the need for residents to verify the information they receive, especially on social media before sharing to ensure accurate information dissemination.
The participants identified socio-economic factors, discrimination, poor governance, and lack of education as contributing factors to violent extremism.
They underscored the need for consistent public engagement and other proactive measures to counter radicalisation and effective engagement with political party youth and communicators.
GNA