By Sampson Manu
Obuasi (Ash), Sept. 26, GNA – Prophet David Kankam Beditor, Obuasi Area Head of the Church of Pentecost, has charged Ghanaians to work together to uphold the country’s democratic credentials.
He said Ghana had always been a beacon of democracy in Africa and it was important for all stakeholders to work to protect this enviable record of accomplishment in the upcoming December general elections.
“We have held successful elections since 1992, with various political parties and the electoral commission distinguishing themselves so well over the years, but this election represents a test case, especially for the electoral commission to prove its integrity and worth”, Prophet Beditor, stated at the launch of the “Agent of Peace Campaign” at Obuasi.
The campaign is a national initiative of the Church of Pentecost, aimed at inspiring all citizens to seek peace before, during, and after the December general elections.
The 2024 election is critical in the country’s history as the two main political parties; the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have ruled the country for 16 years each.
The two are, however, seeking to make history in this year’s election by becoming the first to rule for 20 years.
Prophet Beditor believed it had become necessary for the church to lead in bringing all stakeholders together to become agents of peace before, during and after the December polls.
He seized the opportunity to admonish political actors to prioritize peace especially, on their campaign platforms, stressing that, it was only through peace that the country could develop.
“Political leaders and supporters should not inflame tensions but use their platforms to preach peace, eschew violence and work hard to ensure peaceful elections “.
Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mr Sebastian Yankyera, Bidiem District Police Commander, said ensuring a peaceful election was not only the responsibility of the electoral commission or the police, but a collective responsibility involving all stakeholders.
He asked Ghanaians to be abreast with the electoral rules and be disciplined during the period leading to the elections, during the elections and after the elections.
Mr Elijah Adansi-Bonah, Municipal Chief Executive for Obuasi, said the municipal security committee was working to ensure that the elections were held in a peaceful manner in the municipality.
He commended the Church of Pentecost for the initiative and urged other faith-based organisations to exercise their responsibilities by preaching peace and unity throughout the electioneering processes.
Various speakers such as Right Reverend Baffour Asamoah-Agyei, Methodist Bishop of the Obuasi Diocese, a representative of the traditional leaders and the Deputy Chief Imam for Obuasi, stressed the need for all Ghanaians to prioritize peace before, during and after the elections.
GNA