By Ibrahim Bah Abdul Rahman
Tema, Oct. 05, GNA – The Ningo-Prampram District Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has engaged the Inter-Party Dialogue Committee (IPDC) in the district to commence its activities towards fostering a peaceful election.
Mr. Oppong Mensah, the Ningo-Prampram NCCE Director, emphasised the importance of the IPDC in fostering dialogue and collaboration among political parties, stakeholders, and citizens as it serves as a platform to address electoral concerns, promote tolerance, and mitigate potential conflicts.
Mr. Mensah noted that to achieve this, the IPDCs will meet regularly, at least once a month, before election day, with emergency meetings called as needed, noting that this proactive measure aims to prevent electoral violence and ensure a peaceful transition.
He stressed that the upcoming electoral period presents a critical time for Ghana, and it is therefore essential to ensure voters are well-informed and engaged.
He said the NCCE’s educational campaign, which is anchored on the theme “Together We Can Build a Ghana, So Get Involved,” aims to encourage citizens to participate.
Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Alex K. Norvor said that to actively promote peace in the electoral process, the police will enforce the rules and regulations for peace and security before, during, and after the election.
He urged political party executives and traditional and religious leaders to educate their members on the importance of adhering to electoral rules.
Mr. Charles Botchey, the Ningo-Prampram District Electoral Officer, called on political parties to engage the Electoral Commission’s office in training polling station agents.
“Most polling station agents lack adequate training, leading to problems at polling centres; hence, the EC needs a collaboration to ensure a peaceful election,” he stressed.
Ms. Linda Nyarko, Assistant Director at the Ningo-Prampram District Assembly, noted that the assembly was committed to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure a peaceful election, giving the assurance that the assembly would provide funds and resources to support this initiative.
Mrs. Velvert Ashitey, Ningo-Prampram District Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), emphasised that voting is a right enshrined in the 1992 Constitution.
She encouraged eligible citizens to vote effortlessly, stressing that no one should be violated or prevented from voting if they are eligible, adding that the 2024 general election was critical and urging everyone to vote and be committed to peace and harmony.
Mr. Benjamin Ntiamoah, leader of the Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the district, pleaded for consideration of PWDs in conflict situations, noting that PWDs cannot run or hide during conflicts; therefore, it was important that the country’s peace be maintained.
Venerable Isaac N.K. Quartey, the Head Priest of the St. Anglican Church, Pramrpram, on behalf of the religious leaders, encouraged political parties to work together, strengthened by their differences rather than fighting.
He emphasised that Ghanaians are brothers living in the same community, despite differing ideologies.
GNA