Michael Foli Jackidy
Tsito (V/R), Nov 10, GNA – The Inter-Party Dialogue Committee (IPDC) of National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in Ho West, in collaboration with the Local Council of Churches, political parties, and community groups, has organized a peace walk in Tsito, a town in the Ho West District of the Volta Region.
The event aimed to promote peace and unity ahead of the upcoming December 7 general elections, reinforcing the message that maintaining harmony in the community was vital during the electoral season.
Held on the theme: “Together We Can Build Ghana, So Get Involved,” the peace walk provided a platform for various political party supporters, local leaders, and residents to demonstrate their commitment to peaceful elections.
Participants marched through the main streets of Tsito, clad in their respective party colours, while holding placards with messages advocating for peace and unity.
Mr. Dodji Adjei, the District Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), welcomed participants and praised their commitment to peace and urged the community members not to let political differences divide them.
“Before political parties like the NDC, NPP, CPP, and others existed, we were all united as one community,” Mr. Adjei said.
“We fetched water together from the same stream, played together, and shared our daily lives. Let us not allow politics to break this unity.”
He emphasized that elections were periodic, but the community would remain. It was essential for residents to remember their shared bonds and not let political affiliations cause unnecessary rifts.
Rev. Emmanuel Agbo, Chairman of the Ho West IPDC, reiterated the importance of unity.
He urged participants to maintain peace before, during, and after the election period.
“We want peace and unity to prevail throughout this election season,” Rev. Agbo stated.
He advised voters to approach the polling stations with a peaceful mindset, casting their ballots without engaging in any form of violence or intimidation.
“On election day, it’s just you and the ballot paper,” Rev. Agbo reminded the crowd. “There is no need for guns, knives, or any other weapons. Cast your vote, return home, and wait for the results. Remember that your family and community depend on the peace you uphold.”
He also cautioned against the consequences of electoral violence, stressing that the safety of the community and the wellbeing of loved ones should be paramount.
Mr. Julius Kukah, the Parliamentary Candidate for the National Democratic Party (NDP), also addressed the gathering, emphasizing that elections were a pathway for development.
“Voting should be about progress and the betterment of our communities,” Mr. Kukah stated. “If we conduct the elections peacefully, we pave the way for development in Ho West, Tsito, and beyond. Let us all work together for the growth of our district.”
Mr. Ntow, the Assembly Member for Tsito Dzogbe, echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of respecting each individual’s political choices. He commended participants for proudly wearing their party apparel, showcasing a diverse yet united group of citizens.
“Seeing everyone in their political attire is a beautiful sight,” he said. “No one should be prevented from supporting a party of their choice. Respecting each other’s views is key to maintaining peace during the election period.”
The peace walk commenced early on Saturday, November 9, starting from Awudome Senior High School and concluding at the Tsito market square. Along the route, participants chanted peace slogans and sang songs, creating an atmosphere of solidarity and goodwill.
The event saw representatives from various political parties, local leaders, church members, youth groups, and staff of NCCE.
The organizers and participants left with a renewed commitment to work together to ensure that the December 7, elections are conducted in a spirit of unity, respect, and peace.
GNA