Peace Council Identifies Nine Electoral Hotspots and 42 Flash Points at Kasoa.

Cape Coast: Ahead of the upcoming December 7 election, the National Peace Council (NPC) has pinpointed nine out of the 23 constituencies in the Central Region as potential hotspots for unrest during the electoral process. The areas identified include Awutu-Senya-East, Effutu, Agona-West, Assin-North, Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese, Cape Coast-North, Twifo-Hemang-Lower-Denkyira, and Upper-Denkyira-West and East.According to Ghana News Agency, the Council has highlighted a total of 42 flashpoints within the Awutu Senya-East-Constituency (Kasoa), marking it as the most critical area in a region otherwise known for its tranquillity. These findings were disclosed by Rt. Rev Richardson Aboagye Andam, the Regional Chairman of the Council, during the 'Ghana First Youth Symposium' at the University of Cape Coast. The event was organized by Youth Vision International, a non-governmental organization dedicated to youth empowerment, with support from the Peace Council.The symposium, themed 'Putting Ghana First,' saw the Regi onal Peace Council Chair assuring that with the support of their partners, they have engaged all relevant stakeholders to prevent violence before, during, and after the election. Security agencies are on high alert, closely monitoring these areas to address any signs of violence promptly.Rt. Rev Richardson Aboagye Andam appealed to all Ghanaians, especially the youth, to embrace tolerance and respect for differing opinions, as these are essential for social cohesion and preventing electoral violence. He stressed the importance of abstaining from vote-buying and selling, a practice that perpetuates political corruption and hampers national progress. He cautioned against allowing financial inducements to influence voting decisions, which undermines democratic values.Madam Araba Aikins, Assistant Director at the Cape Coast Metro office of the National Commission for Civic Education, urged youth activists from political parties to adhere to electoral regulations, ensuring a peaceful and orderly election proce ss. She encouraged them to act responsibly and resist exploitation by politicians seeking narrow electoral gains.Mr. Richard Ohene-Kwashie of Vision Youth International reiterated the organization's commitment to empowering the youth for national advancement. He emphasized the invaluable nature of peace and urged the youth to prioritize Ghana's stability above all else.