Presidential Candidates Commit to Peace Ahead of 2024 Ghana Elections.

Accra: The presidential candidates for the 2024 General Election have signed a Peace Pact to ensure harmony and peace before, during, and after the December 7 polls. Initiated by the National Peace Council and the Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG), the event provided a platform for candidates to pledge their commitment to peace in the upcoming election.According to Ghana News Agency, the Peace Pact, which is the fourth in its series, was signed at the Kempinski Gold Coast City Hotel in Accra. Eight out of the 12 candidates were present, while four were represented. Among those present were the flagbearers of the two major political parties, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Mr. John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).Other candidates who signed the pact included George Twum-Barima-Adu, an Independent Candidate, Hassan Ayariga of the All People's Congress, Kofi Koranteng, another Independent Candidate, and Nana Akosua-Frimpomaa of the Convention People 's Party. Also present were Kofi Akpaloo of the Liberal Party of Ghana and Dr. Daniel Augustus Lartey Jnr of the Great Consolidated Popular Party, as well as Mohammed Frimpong of the National Democratic Party. Alan John Kyerematen of the Movement for Change was represented by Nana Ohene Ntow, Christian Kwabena Andrew of the Ghana Union Movement by his Vice Presidential Candidate Evelyn Serwa Bonsu, and Nana Kwame Bediako of The New Force by his Aide.The candidates pledged their commitment to maintaining peace and stability and urged all stakeholders to do the same, emphasizing that a peaceful election is a collective responsibility.Dignitaries such as Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, Inspector-General of Police Dr. George Akuffo-Dampare, and National Chief Imam Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharabutu were present to witness the event. Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, the African Union High Representative for Silencing the Guns, highlighted Ghana's status as a beacon of democracy and urged all parties to ensure accou ntability and avoid actions that could lead to conflict.Dr. Chambas pointed out that many conflicts in Africa have been triggered by poorly conducted elections. He stressed that past successes in conducting elections do not guarantee future performance and urged stakeholders to work towards free, fair, and transparent polls. He called on the Electoral Commission to conduct credible elections and for security agencies to maintain professionalism in law and order.Dr. Chambas also emphasized the role of the media in avoiding the spread of misinformation and urged the judiciary to ensure accountability and deliver justice impartially. He appealed to political leaders to avoid hate speech and incitement to violence.Reverend Dr. Ernest Adu Gyamfi, Chairperson of the National Peace Council, noted the positive impact of the National Peace Council Act since its passage in 2011, promoting dialogue among political parties and civil society. He encouraged tolerance and dialogue among election stakeholders.Elector al Commission Chairperson Mrs. Jean Adukwei Mensa stated that the signing of the Peace Pact is a significant step towards national development. She reiterated the EC's commitment to free, fair, and transparent elections, emphasizing transparency, responsiveness, and inclusiveness in their engagements.