Western Regional Peace Council Chair calls for peace ahead of December 7 elections

The Chairman of the Western Regional Peace Council, Bishop Emmanuel Botwey, is championing a peaceful and fair electoral process in Ghana.

He has urged all Ghanaians, particularly politicians, to cultivate a culture of peace and ensure a seamless transfer of power after the upcoming elections.

To achieve this, Bishop Botwey is calling on security services to exercise restraint and avoid manhandling journalists and individuals perceived to be from opposing political parties. Additionally, he is encouraging political commentators to refrain from making sweeping and unsubstantiated allegations against their opponents.

With Ghana’s December 7 elections fast approaching, various groups and individuals are intensifying their calls for peaceful elections.

The Hope Mind Foundation is leading the charge with its nationwide “Sing for Peace Free and Fair Elections” campaign.

This initiative brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including religious leaders, politicians, and traditional authorities, in the Western Region Declaration.

Notable Gospel musicians like Uncle Ato, Joyce Blessing, and Efua Black joined forces to promote peace through music and preaching.

This collaborative effort is crucial in promoting a violence-free and inclusive electoral process.

Bishop Emmanuel Botwey called on personnel of the security services to exercise restraint and avoid manhandling journalists and individuals perceived to be from opposing political parties.

“Let’s work together to foster a culture of peace and ensure a smooth transfer of power. To achieve this, political communicators should refrain from making baseless and sweeping allegations against their opponents and election stakeholders, including the Electoral Commission and security agencies,” he urged.

He added that “Security services must exercise restraint and avoid manhandling journalists and individuals perceived to be from opposing parties. We must treat all political parties fairly and avoid manipulation by political actors.”

Omanhene of Wassa Amenfi Traditional Area, Tetrete Okuamoah Sekyi II, graced the event as the special guest of honour. In his address, he emphasized the importance of unity, urging citizens not to let the elections divide us.

He further encouraged citizens to prioritize national unity, fostering an environment of tolerance and understanding.

“I shudder when I hear people suggest they’re ready for war. Do they truly understand the consequences? Ghana has enjoyed immense peace, and we must sustain it. Whoever emerges victorious should be accepted. I trust that our living God will safeguard this nation, preventing harm and ensuring continued harmony.” Tetrete Okuamoah Sekyi II boldly declared.

The District Chief Executive of Mpohor District, Ignatius Asaa Mensah, urged the youth to refrain from violence and intimidation during the upcoming elections.

Instead, he encouraged them to make informed decisions based on the policies presented by each political party.

“Youths, don’t be misled; the real players are the party leaders. Don’t follow them blindly, instead, vote based on their policies. That’s why education is crucial now. When you vote according to their policies, there will ultimately be a winner”.

“For those born after 1992 to 2004, remember that Ghana has held elections before, and we’ve always come out peaceful. Let’s not be scared, let’s go out and vote peacefully, and at the end of the day, we’ll continue to enjoy the peace we have”. He stated.

By Ebenezer Atiemo

The post Western Regional Peace Council Chair calls for peace ahead of December 7 elections first appeared on 3News.

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