KEY POINTS
- US applauds Ghana’s peace pact ahead of December 7 elections.
- Twelve presidential candidates pledged commitment to peaceful, fair elections.
- Peace initiative backed by NPC and IDEG in Accra.
The United States has commended Ghana’s presidential candidates for signing the 4th Presidential Elections Peace Pact ahead of the country’s December 7 elections.
The gesture underscores Ghana’s commitment to upholding peace during its democratic process.
US applauds NPC, IDEG for peace efforts
In a statement, the US Embassy in Ghana praised the National Peace Council (NPC) and the Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG) for their critical roles in fostering peaceful elections. Rolf A. Olson, the US Chargé d’Affaires, emphasized the importance of maintaining democratic principles, saying:
“The will of the Ghanaian people must not be thwarted by violence before, during, or after the upcoming elections. The United States wishes Ghana a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process on December 7.”
Graphic noted that the peace pact, signed on November 28 in Accra, binds 12 presidential candidates or their representatives, including Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), to ensure a non-violent and fair electoral process.
Commitment to peace
Bawumia reaffirmed his dedication to respecting the law and ensuring a peaceful election, stating:
“I wholeheartedly pledge my commitment to work within the rules and collaborate with all to ensure a peaceful election.”
Similarly, former President Mahama called for unity and cooperation:
“Let us pledge to promote peace. Let us work together to create an environment that is conducive to free, fair, and peaceful elections.”
The peace pact, themed “Pursuing Peaceful Elections, Non-Violence, and Justice,” is the fourth of its kind, following similar agreements in 2012, 2016, and 2020. The initiative underscores Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in West Africa.
High-profile support
The event drew notable dignitaries, including Electoral Commission Chairperson Jean Mensa, Inspector General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, Chief Imam Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, and African Union High Representative for Silencing the Guns, Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas.
Organized by the NPC and IDEG, the pact seeks to reinforce Ghana’s status as a leader in peaceful elections, even as political tensions rise across the region. It also aligns with broader efforts to promote stability and democracy in Africa.
As December 7 approaches, the US and other international observers have reiterated the importance of a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process, echoing Ghana’s own commitment to democratic values.
