Zongo Leaders in Ashanti Advocate for Peaceful Elections Ahead of December Polls.

Kumasi: Traditional leaders in Zongo communities across the Ashanti Region have called on Ghanaians to maintain peace before, during, and after the December 07 general elections. Speaking at a community durbar on the upcoming polls at the Kumasi Central Mosque, Alhaji Ibrahim Abdul Rahman, Chief of the Moshie community in Ashanti and caretaker of the Zongo communities, emphasized the need for peaceful conduct during the elections. He urged voters to base their decisions on ideas rather than resorting to violence.According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Francis Osei Nsiah, the Ashanti Regional Director of the Electoral Commission, assured attendees that the commission was finalizing preparations to ensure a smooth electoral process. He highlighted the importance of voter education, emphasizing that political affiliations are a personal choice that must be respected. The Council of Zongo Chiefs, Ashanti Region, has also issued a press release urging Ghanaians to conduct themselves peacefully during the election pe riod.Its president, Naba Musah Akanbonga, expressed concern about rising tensions between members of opposing political groups. He reminded citizens of Ghana's history of successful, peaceful elections and democratic transitions, urging them to promote unity and understanding among the diverse cultural, religious, and political groups in the country. Naba Musah, who also serves as the Farfar Chief of the Ashanti Region, advised that it is the responsibility of every citizen to safeguard this legacy.Ghanaians are scheduled to head to the polls on December 07, 2024, in a closely contested election between Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the sitting Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and Mr. John Dramani Mahama, a former president and the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Notably, this election marks the first time in the nation's history that both leading candidates hail from the northern region, representing a significant moment in Ghana's political landscape.