NCCE Warns Against Alcohol Sales Near Polling Stations on Election Day.

Ketu North: Mr. Prosper Afealete, the Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in Ketu North Municipality, has issued a stern warning against the sale of alcohol within a 500-meter radius of polling stations on election day.According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Afealete emphasized that no individual or establishment will be permitted to sell alcohol near these stations, highlighting the importance of maintaining order and civility throughout the election process. He stressed that the consumption of alcohol or hard drugs during the election period could lead to disruptive behavior and potential election violence. 'No one should engage in acts that could cause unrest on election day,' he urged, adding, 'we must ensure that everyone conducts themselves responsibly.'Mr. Afealete delivered these remarks during a sensitisation session for parishioners at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Dzodze. The session was part of a wider initiative by the NCCE and the Municipal Election Task Force aimed at promoting peaceful elections and raising awareness about the importance of voting. He underscored that voting is not only a right but also a powerful means for citizens to express their will and select leaders of their choice without fear or intimidation. 'Voting is a fundamental right. Every eligible voter should feel empowered to participate in the election process confidently,' he said.Furthermore, Mr. Afealete reminded voters of the privacy of their vote, encouraging them to refrain from disclosing whom they voted for. 'It is crucial that no one attempts to influence your vote. Remember, voting is a private matter, and you should not allow anyone to know who you voted for,' he advised. He also warned against taking mobile phones into polling booths to capture images, as this is a violation of election laws.Reflecting on the nation's democratic progress, Mr. Afealete noted that the upcoming election will mark the ninth general election since Ghana's return to democratic rule in 1992. 'Let us protect the peace we have enjoyed in the past elections, and work towards ensuring a peaceful and orderly election this December,' he urged.Chief Inspector Emmanuel Danyo, a member of the Municipal Election Task Force, also highlighted the need for voters to consider the long-term consequences of election violence. 'Think about the future of our country and the devastating impact that violence can have. Look at what is happening in countries like Sudan and Haiti, where conflict has brought businesses to a halt, salaries are unpaid, and essential services have collapsed,' he said. 'We must all take responsibility for maintaining peace and avoid becoming pawns in someone else's agenda.'Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Amedzi, the parish priest, reminded the congregation that while political parties are actively campaigning and presenting their promises, it is ultimately God who knows who will lead the country. 'God knows who the right leader is,' he said. 'Let us trust in His wisdom as we go to the polls on December 7.'All the speakers urged the public to participate in the election with a sense of unity, responsibility, and respect for the democratic process, ensuring that the upcoming election remains peaceful and reflects the will of the people.