Ghanaians Urged to Refrain from Electoral Violence.

Accra: Mr. Mawuli Agbenu, the Greater Accra Regional Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), has reiterated the call on Ghanaians to refrain from electoral violence. He highlighted the threat that electoral violence poses to democracy, stability, and social cohesion, emphasizing the potential consequences of intimidation, vandalism, and other violent acts on the legitimacy of election results and public trust in the political system.According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Agbenu made these remarks during a lecture on peace organized by the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Ga Presbytery, Department of Ecumenical and Social Relations, under the theme 'Strengthening Our Capacity to be Peacemakers Before, During, and After 2024 General Elections.' Accompanied by Mr. Edem Afeeva and other NCCE staff, Mr. Agbenu explained that electoral violence could lead to injuries, deaths, property destruction, and exacerbate existing conflicts, ultimately diminishing political participation due to a loss of trust.The NCCE regional director elaborated on the broader impacts of electoral violence, including political instability, human rights violations, and economic stagnation, which damage the country's international reputation and create societal anxiety. Despite Ghana's history of regular elections, Mr. Agbenu identified threats such as misinformation, hate speech, and corruption that could compromise the electoral process.Mr. Agbenu further identified drivers of electoral violence, including ethnic or religious divisions, disputed election results, and weak security measures. He urged Ghanaians to protect peace and ensure the democratic process remains uninterrupted, highlighting the importance of credible elections characterized by inclusivity, fairness, and accountability.He concluded by stating that peaceful elections are a shared responsibility among all citizens and entities, noting that the 1992 Constitution of Ghana provides the framework for facilitating credible, peaceful, free, and fair electi ons.