The Awutu Senya West constituency witnessed a remarkable display of unity as members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) came together to promote peace and harmony ahead of the 2024 general elections. The initiative, which saw political opponents embracing collaboration, was lauded by constituents and observers as a step in the right direction for fostering national cohesion.
The event, held at the district capital, Awutu Beraku, brought together political leaders, traditional authorities, youth groups, and civil society organizations. Themed “Unity for Development: Working Together for Peaceful Elections,” the gathering emphasized the importance of peace in ensuring a stable and prosperous community.
A Unified Front for Progress
In a joint address, the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya West, Hon. Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui (NDC), and the NPP Parliamentary Candidate, Hon. George Andah, reiterated their commitment to peace. Both leaders called on their supporters to prioritize unity and refrain from engaging in violence or inflammatory rhetoric during the election period.
Hon. Tetteh-Agbotui highlighted the importance of working across political lines for the good of the constituency. “Our differences in ideology should not divide us as a people. Awutu Senya West deserves peace, development, and progress, and we can only achieve this by putting our community first,” she said.
Hon. Andah echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that peace is a prerequisite for development. “Let us set an example for the rest of the country. We may belong to different political parties, but our goal is the same: a better future for Awutu Senya West,” he stated.
Role of Traditional and Religious Leaders
The traditional council, led by Nana Kwesi Amoakwa III, played a key role in organizing the peace initiative. Nana Amoakwa III urged the youth to resist being used as tools for political violence. “Politics is not war. Let us protect the dignity of our community by ensuring peaceful elections,” he said.
Religious leaders also contributed to the event, offering prayers and calling for tolerance. Rev. Grace Asare of the Awutu Presbyterian Church urged political leaders to serve as role models by conducting their campaigns with civility and mutual respect.
Youth and Community Involvement
Youth groups, who are often at the center of election-related violence, were actively involved in the event. Representatives from the NPP and NDC youth wings signed a peace pact, pledging to advocate for peaceful engagements and discourage acts of intimidation or aggression.
Speaking on behalf of the youth, Ms. Abena Mensah, a local activist, emphasized the importance of youth participation in development rather than conflict. “We are the future of this constituency. Let us focus on building rather than destroying,” she said.
Commitment to Sustainable Peace
The peace initiative in Awutu Senya West is part of a broader national effort to ensure violence-free elections in 2024. Similar events are being planned across the country, with the Electoral Commission and the National Peace Council playing pivotal roles.
Residents of Awutu Senya West expressed optimism about the impact of the initiative. Many believe that the display of unity between the NPP and NDC will inspire others to prioritize peace and collaboration over division and conflict.
As the 2024 elections draw closer, the people of Awutu Senya West hope that this historic collaboration between the two major political parties will set a precedent for a peaceful and prosperous Ghana.
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