By Benjamin A. Commey, GNA
Accra, Dec. 06, GNA – Mr. Alexander Aryee, Director of African Affairs at Policy Initiative for Economic Development, Africa (PIED Africa), has urged the youth to reject any recruitment for electoral violence ahead of Ghana’s December 7, 2024, elections.
He warned that recruitment for violent activities could destabilize Ghana ahead of the December 7, 2024, election.
Speaking during a youth engagement organized by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in the Odododiodioo Constituency of the Greater Accra Region, Mr. Aryee called on the youth to reject any such attempts by political parties and candidates to protect the nation’s peace and democracy.
Reflecting on past electoral violence, He reminded the youth of the tragic 2020 elections, where eight people died and many others were injured, stressing that the youth had the responsibility to safeguard the peace and stability that Ghanaians currently enjoy.
“If you watch, all the incidents of political and electoral violence are perpetuated by young people. They are perpetuated by young people because they have the strength to do it, so if they value their lives, they value their vision, they value their goals, and aspirations, they will not trade it for mere things,” he said.
“You have to reject every recruitment that is intended to create chaos. Do not accept such offers because you will be left alone if you get injured and I can cite examples like Odododiodioo Constituency in 2020 and Ayawaso West Wuogon. The man who was shot remains in wheelchair,” Mr. Aryee cautioned.
The engagement, organized by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in the Ashiedu Keteke Sub-Metro with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aimed to promote youth participation in the electoral process and ensure inclusivity.
It also sought to raise voter awareness about the “dos and don’ts” on election day as part of efforts to strengthen and sustain Ghana’s democratic governance system.
Mr. Aryee urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to ensure a level playing field that would allow any losing candidate or political party to accept the election results.
He also called on the Commission to maintain consistency in the figures it releases to help reduce suspicions and mistrust among political parties.
“We trust the EC. The EC has been, as organisation, running our election since time immemorial when we started our democratic process…All we want from them (EC) is to ensure that they do everything possible to maintain the peace we have enjoyed in this country.
“Be a fair referee and make sure that every party is satisfied with whatever the outcome of this election will be,” he stressed.
Mr. Aryee urged political parties to follow the established procedures for addressing any grievances that may arise from the elections, noting the importance of preserving peace beyond the election period.
Mrs. Gloria Amarkai Kudo, Deputy Director of NCCE for Greater Accra Region, cautioned the youth against voter inducement, encouraging them to reject such offers and choose leaders based on competence and their policies.
She also reassured the public, dispelling rumors that the elections would be held on two separate days, confirming that the polls would take place on Saturday, December 7, 2024.
Mr. Gabriel Bekoe Ofori, Assistant Director of NCCE for Ashiedu Keteke Sub-Metro, advised voters against taking pictures of their ballots, as it could result in legal consequences.
He also stressed the need for respect and cooperation with EC officials to ensure a smooth and peaceful election process.
GNA