By Kekeli K. Blamey
Sogakope (V/R), Nov 08, GNA – The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has engaged various election observers with a call to uphold vigilance, fairness, and transparency in the upcoming elections in December, this year.
The programme, held at Sogakope in the South Tongu district of the Volta Region was also to ensure that the indispensable roles of women and youth at the forefront of many conflict resolutions, social cohesion and peaceful dialogues at community and national levels were not ignored.
Major General Richard Addo Gyane, Commandant of the KAIPTC, who was represented by Madam Agnes Agbevadi, the Senior Programmes Officer of Women, Youth, Peace and Security Institute of KAIPTC stated that there was the need for collective endeavor to safeguard the country’s democracy before, during and after elections.
He entreated the election observers to be diligent and vigilant to shape electoral processes, build a more inclusive and peaceful Ghana for generations to come.
He lauded the Swedish government for their continuous support to promote the KAIPTC’s initiatives and sustainable peace and security in Africa
Madam Theodora Anti Williams, the Executive Director of the Foundation for Security Development in Africa (FOSDA) reiterated the need for women and youth participation in electoral processes to promote peace and security during the upcoming elections.
She said, “if women and youth are empowered to actively contribute to Ghana’s security and electoral issues, Ghana would definitely be a hub of peace for other countries to emulate.”
She encouraged the observers to approach their responsibilities with impartiality, noting that their vigilance could deter violence, prevent fraud, and inspire public trust in the election results.
Reverend Godswill Elorm Courage, a member of the Peace Council in the Volta Region lauded the objectives of KAIPTC and pledged the commitment of the Council to ensure that peace prevailed during the elections.
He mentioned that the Electoral Commission (EC) had given assurance to deliver its best in the upcoming elections and urged the youth to avoid any form of violence.
“Don’t allow any politician to use you. This election would be peaceful, and we trust the EC to deliver,” he explained.
The KAIPTC’s training initiative aims to ensure a transparent and credible process, positioning Ghana once again as a model of democracy in Africa.
GNA