As Ghana prepares for its pivotal December 7 general elections, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has made an impassioned plea for peace and unity across the nation. Addressing citizens and political actors, he urged Ghanaians to prioritize harmony over divisive rhetoric and to ignore false prophecies that could undermine the country’s stability during this critical period.
A Call for Restraint
The Asantehene’s message comes at a time when tensions are rising in some constituencies, such as Awutu Senya East, which has been flagged for security concerns. The leader highlighted the importance of Ghanaians focusing on the collective good rather than political rivalries, emphasizing that elections should not become a source of conflict. His call echoes the sentiments of many citizens who are keen to see a peaceful electoral process.
The Role of Political Leaders
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II also urged political leaders to exhibit maturity and to ensure their supporters act responsibly. "Leadership is about inspiring peace and development, not inciting violence," he remarked. He emphasized the importance of accountability and responsibility among candidates and political parties in ensuring the safety of voters and the credibility of the election process.
Growing Security Concerns
The Ghana Police Service and other security agencies are on high alert to prevent violence and maintain order during the elections. Reports indicate increased deployments to hotspots like Awutu Senya East, where previous elections saw incidents of violence. Both the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) have pledged to adhere to peace pacts signed earlier in the year, although challenges persist in fully implementing these agreements.
Peaceful Elections as a National Priority
Ghana has long been regarded as a beacon of democracy in Africa, but maintaining this reputation requires concerted efforts. The Asantehene’s call is a timely reminder of the need for vigilance, patriotism, and a commitment to the values of democracy. Civil society organizations and religious leaders have joined the call, urging citizens to reject inflammatory messages and to ensure that disputes are resolved through legal and peaceful means.
Conclusion
As the December 7 elections draw near, the Asantehene’s appeal underscores the shared responsibility of all Ghanaians to safeguard the country’s peace and democratic integrity. With heightened security measures and the active participation of stakeholders in fostering dialogue, Ghana has the opportunity to demonstrate once again why it is a model of democracy in the region.
By choosing peace, Ghanaians can ensure that their votes pave the way for progress and unity.
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