The Electoral Commission is a cornerstone of our democracy, tasked with ensuring that the 2024 elections are conducted peacefully, fairly, and free of irregularities.
The widespread desire for change among unemployed youth and the severe economic hardships facing the country create a climate of tension that could potentially lead to conflicts and electoral violence.
National Security Minister Hon. Albert Kan Dapaah’s recent comments expressing concern about potential threats to the election process have been deemed baseless by some. Critics argue that it is his responsibility to address these threats with effective, long-term solutions rather than merely voicing fears. This perspective was shared by Peter Lanchene Toobu, the Member of Parliament for Wa West, during his appearance on the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor 92.3 FM, hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra.
In a related development, Minister Dapaah has also expressed concern about what he perceives as a growing lack of trust in the judiciary among politicians. He criticized political commentary leading up to the December 7 elections, suggesting that such remarks undermine the judicial system’s credibility.
At a forum in Accra, Dapaah emphasized that political parties should not discredit the judiciary. He warned that a potential loss of faith in the courts could lead to a situation where major political parties might avoid legal avenues for addressing grievances, increasing the risk of chaos. He stressed the need for a robust and transparent electoral system where all parties accept the results.
Dapaah also called on citizens to prioritize peace during the upcoming elections, urging them not to be used by politicians who may lose. He highlighted the high cost of maintaining peace and the importance of accepting electoral outcomes without resorting to violence.
In his address to the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference, held under the theme “SPI National Forum on Social Cohesion, Security, and Peaceful Elections,” Dapaah underscored the historical context of electoral violence in Ghana and its potential to destabilize the country. Despite Ghana’s tradition of peaceful power transitions between major political parties, he cautioned against underestimating the threats to democracy.
Dapaah acknowledged the nation’s adherence to democratic principles and the judiciary’s role in resolving electoral disputes. He expressed gratitude for the country’s successful transitions of power but voiced concerns about the heightened stakes of the 2024 elections.
The Minister noted that the strong ambitions of the two main political parties could lead to unrest if one party loses. He described the 2024 elections as a critical test of Ghana’s democracy and emphasized the security challenges posed by the high stakes involved.
Story by: Alexander Kukah
