Accra – June 21, GNA-The Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Ghana has commended the leadership of Ghana’s Parliament for their exemplary role in safeguarding the country’s peace and democratic stability.
The commendation follows the release of a landmark research paper co-published with the African Chamber of Content Producers (ACCP), which identifies the respectful, cross-party relationships among Ghana’s parliamentary leaders as a primary driver of the nation’s resilience.
The research, titled “Institutionalizing a Strong and Responsible Opposition for Democratic Resilience in Africa: A Ghana Case Study (2025/2026 Review)”, has already attracted positive feedback from across the continent, with other African nations expressing interest in studying Ghana’s model for replication.
In a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency, Rev. Tegha King, Deputy Secretary General of UPF Ghana, said the organisation, which holds General Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, is committed to identifying and promoting peace conduits that could be adopted across Africa.
“Ghana’s parliamentary leadership has demonstrated that political opponents need not be enemies,” Rev. King stated.
“The cordiality between Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo Markin and successive Majority Leaders, from Cassiel Ato Forson to Mahama Ayariga has prevented gridlock and reinforced democratic norms. This is a model that Africa must study and replicate.”
He noted that the research findings had resonated widely, with policymakers and civil society organisations from various African countries reaching out to UPF Ghana for insights into the country’s unique political culture.
“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive,” he added. “Many are asking: how does Ghana do it? Our response is simple: leadership sets the example, and followers follow.”
The researchers also highlighted another striking example of Ghana’s culture of cross-party respect: the relationship between two blood brothers, Abu Jinapor (NPP Member of Parliament for Damongo) and John Jinapor (NDC Member of Parliament for Yapei Kusawgu and Minister of Energy).
Despite belonging to rival parties, both brothers have publicly affirmed their mutual respect, with Abu Jinapor stating: “We are very cordial. Cordial as any siblings anywhere can be.” For ordinary Ghanaians, these examples send a powerful message that political opponents need not be enemies.
Rev. King also encouraged Ghana to continue being the beacon of democracy for Africa and the rest of the world. “Ghana has shown that peace and development are not accidental. They are the result of deliberate, institutionalised respect across political divides. We urge Ghana’s leaders to protect this legacy and to continue leading by example.”
The UPF Ghana Deputy Secretary General also praised the collaboration with the African Chamber of Content Producers (ACCP) and the Africa Image Ambassadors network, describing it as a strategic partnership that amplifies positive narratives about the continent.
“The ACCP and the Africa Image Ambassadors have been instrumental in projecting Africa’s democratic story to the world,” Rev. King said. “Their commitment to showcasing what works in Africa is exactly what the continent needs. We cherish this collaboration and look forward to deepening it.”
He called on more Africans to become ambassadors of positive narratives, stressing that the continent’s future depended on its ability to tell its own stories. “Africa is not defined by coups or crises. Africa is defined by resilience, innovation, and the courage of its people to build peace. We need more voices, more partners, and more Ambassadors for Peace to carry this message forward.”
The research paper, which is available as a preprint on international platforms including ResearchGate, Academia.edu, Zenodo, and SSRN, has already been submitted to peer-reviewed journals for formal publication.
It is expected to contribute significantly to policy discussions at the African Union and beyond, as the continent continues to seek practical models for democratic resilience.
GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba