Election 2024: CSOs Urge Calm Amid Post-Election Tensions in Ghana

ACCRA: The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has called for calm and adherence to the rule of law following reports of disturbances after Ghana's December 7 General Election. The coalition has urged the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies to intensify their efforts to restore peace and hold accountable those responsible for acts of lawlessness during the transition to a new political administration.According to Ghana News Agency, the CSOs expressed concern over incidents of post-election misconduct in a statement issued after a meeting with the Inspector General of Police and the National Election Security Task Force. The meeting addressed issues of vandalism and other disruptive incidents that have occurred amid the declaration of election results. The coalition warned that such actions create a tense atmosphere and pose threats to the peace and stability foundational to Ghana's democracy.The reported incidents include the disruption of collation centers, destruction of public and private properties, and looting of state property. The coalition emphasized the importance of maintaining calm and respect for the rule of law during this critical time of political transition. They highlighted the peaceful transfer of power as a cornerstone of Ghana's democracy, urging all Ghanaians to act in unity and peace.The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations comprises the Forum Initiative, The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers, Office of the National Chief Imam, STAR Ghana Foundation, Ghana Center for Democratic Development, and Institute for Democratic Governance. They commended the efforts of the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces in maintaining law and order and urged the security services to remain impartial and continue protecting the safety of all citizens.The coalition also praised interventions from President-elect John Dramani Mahama and the Catholic Bishops' Conference, who have called for an end to acts of vandalism and violence. They reiterated their commitm ent to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure the stability and progress of Ghana's democracy in the region. While acknowledging that the December 7 election was largely peaceful, the coalition condemned the acts of lawlessness and called for an immediate end to such activities to protect the integrity of the election process and the nation's democratic values.