On 27th October 2024. The Savannah Regional Islamic Council held a powerful peace forum in Damongo with the theme “Ensuring Peace Before, During, and After Elections, a Collective Responsibility.” The event brought together community leaders, political representatives, security forces, and young people to underscore the importance of peaceful coexistence in the lead-up to Ghana’s upcoming elections. The forum emphasized that peace is foundational to development and stability, a message shared and reinforced by each speaker.
Chairman of the Islamic Peace Council: Sheikh Abubakar Sulemana Kayalli, in his opening address, highlighted peace as an essential precondition for national growth and prosperity. He urged attendees to value peace as the bedrock of progress, cautioning against violence and imploring, especially young people, to recognize their purpose and steer clear of actions that could lead to tragic outcomes. “Young people must understand the sanctity of life and the purpose of their creation, which is never to engage in violence or acts that bring harm,” he remarked, emphasizing the role of youth as peace ambassadors in the community.
Political Parties’ Pledges for Peaceful Campaigning, Representatives of the various political parties expressed their commitment to peaceful elections. The representative of the Convention People’s Party (CPP) assured the public that the CPP is committed to promoting peace throughout the election season. “Our aim is to be advocates of peace,” and to work within our communities to uphold the values of harmony.”
From the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Member of Parliament for Damongo, Lawyer Samuel Abu Jinapor, echoed this commitment, calling on all political factions to prioritize peace. Jinapor cautioned that over-celebrating electoral victories could lead to tension and emphasized that “elections are not a matter of life and death.”
He also expressed his readiness to sign a peace pledge alongside opposing party MPs, urging for a larger platform where all political leaders can publicly commit to peaceful conduct. “The New Patriotic Party pledges to abide by all rules and directives from the Islamic Council and other peace custodians to ensure a harmonious election period,” he affirmed.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC), represented by executive member Hon. Alhassan Hudu, highlighted the Electoral Commission’s (EC) role in maintaining peace. “The peace of the country rests in large part on the EC, as Ghanaians look to them for fair and transparent elections,” he stated. He called on the EC to operate with professionalism, beyond partisan interests, adding that the NDC stands for peace and is committed to respecting the electoral outcomes if conducted fairly.
Security and Electoral Commission’s Commitment to Peace The military, represented by Second Lieutenant Jeffrey Nyarko, assured the community of their commitment to impartiality and professionalism. “We will provide equal protection to every individual, regardless of political affiliation, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all citizens,” Nyarko pledged.
The Damongo District Director of the Electoral Commission (EC) reminded participants of the peaceful conduct observed in the 2016 and 2020 elections and expressed hope for the same in the upcoming elections. “Elections are a democratic exercise, not a declaration of war,” he stressed. He urged voters to maintain calm, encouraging them to vote and return home peacefully while results are counted. “The EC will do everything in its capacity to ensure free, fair, and credible elections, fostering an environment where every vote counts,” he added.
As Ghana approaches its election period, the Savannah Regional Islamic Council’s peace program served as a reminder of the collective responsibility of each citizen to uphold peace. From community leaders and political parties to the security forces and the Electoral Commission, a united message was delivered: peace is a shared duty, and only through mutual respect can a stable and prosperous Ghana be achieved.
