ACCRA: President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called on Ghanaians to ensure that the upcoming December 7 polls do not divide the nation but instead serve as a means to strengthen the country’s democracy. He emphasized that while elections are a civic responsibility, expressing differing opinions on voting should not lead to violence or conflict.

According to Ghana News Agency, this message was delivered by Mr. Stephen Asamoah Boateng, Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, on behalf of the President at the 2024 Peace Campaign. The event was organized by associations of faith-based organizations under the theme ‘Let Peace Prevail (Matthew 5:9)’ and was held at the Forecourt of the State House. It was supported by the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), Christian Council of Ghana (CCG), National Association of Charismatic Christian Churches (NACCC), Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, and the Office of the National Chief Imam.

The event brought together political figures including fo
rmer President John Dramani Mahama, Flagbearer of the NDC; Mr. Hassan Ayariga, Presidential Candidate of All People’s Congress (APC); Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, Vice Presidential Candidate of the NPP; and Nana Ohene Ntow, Senior Advisor to Mr. Alan Kyerematen, Presidential Candidate for Movement for Change. Mr. Asamoah Boateng emphasized that Ghana’s interests should take precedence over political affiliations, highlighting the country’s rich tapestry of culture, traditions, and beliefs that promote unity.

He urged citizens to avoid polarizing and politicizing issues, which only create enmity, and instead focus on politics as a means for expressing hope and contributing to the development agenda. The Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting every citizen and maintaining law and order before, during, and after the December elections.

Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, Vice Presidential Candidate of the NPP, reiterated the party’s commitment to peace, emphasizing that an election is merely a c
ontest of ideas. He called on political leaders to embody peace, as exemplified by NPP Flagbearer Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, and encouraged them to sign a peace accord as a demonstration of their commitment.

Sheikh Arameyaw Shiabu, Spokesperson for the National Chief Imam, stressed the importance of peace and urged all individuals to prioritize the nation’s interests over personal or political agendas. He cautioned against inflammatory comments and advised young people to resist being used as tools for violence.