The 2024 general elections in Ghana have already stirred discussions about ensuring peace and stability during the voting process.
The Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande has urged the need for a peaceful election in the upcoming December 7 Election.
He lauded the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for initiating strategies to maintain order and curb election-related violence.
His remarks highlight the NDC’s unwavering commitment to fostering a peaceful and inclusive electoral process while urging other stakeholders to follow suit.
Commending the Police for Proactive Measures
Gbande expressed confidence in the police’s strategy for ensuring peace during and after the elections.
According to him, the strategy underscores a shared vision of maintaining peace in Ghana’s democracy.
“It falls in the place of seeking for an orderly society and a peaceful election. It’s reassuring because particularly when we’ve been worried about violence and the police have suddenly risen to the occasion to say that they will curb violence.”
Mustapha Gbande Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
He added that the police’s firm stance offers a glimmer of hope for political stakeholders and citizens alike, who have grown increasingly concerned about election-related tensions.
Concerns About Violence in Elections
“Violence has never been the way, and it shouldn’t be a way in the 2024 election. We don’t want to govern over a vulnerable society. We want to win an election to build Ghana—one nation that can contain both the NDC and the NPP.”
Mustapha Gbande Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
These remarks reaffirmed the NDC’s commitment to pursuing political power through democratic and peaceful means rather than succumbing to practices that undermine national unity and stability.
Praise for the IGP’s Leadership
“The NDC is fully committed to what the IGP has said. We’ll work with it; we’ll trust that the IGP will rise fully to the occasion. We believed because he did the same in the Asim North, and there was absolute peace after that election.”
Mustapha Gbande Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
Gbande’s confidence in the IGP’s capabilities stems from prior instances where police efforts resulted in peaceful electoral outcomes, further solidifying the trust in their current strategy.
Inclusion of Other Political Stakeholders
Gbande also addressed the importance of inclusivity in ensuring a peaceful election process.
“Yesterday when he [the IGP] said it, I saw that the NPP executives frowned their faces and I was wondering what exactly would have called for that. The NDC is very happy we don’t want to govern an ungovernable society.”
Mustapha Gbande Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
He implied that such collaboration would contribute to a balanced and transparent electoral process, ensuring that all political stakeholders work towards a common goal of peace and stability.
Commitment to a Peaceful Electoral Process
Reiterating the NDC’s commitment to peaceful elections, Gbande highlighted the party’s broader vision for Ghana’s governance.
“We want to win an election to build Ghana—a one nation that can contain both the NDC and the NPP. Violence has never been the way, and it shouldn’t be a way in the 2024 election.”
Mustapha Gbande Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
This call for nonviolence resonates with the party’s commitment to democratic principles and reflects a broader desire for an inclusive and peaceful Ghana.
Mustapha Gbande’s remarks serve as a clarion call for all political stakeholders to uphold peace and order during the 2024 elections.
His commendation of the police strategy, coupled with his firm stance against violence, underscores the NDC’s dedication to fostering unity and stability.
As the elections approach, such assurances from key political figures play a crucial role in shaping a peaceful and credible electoral process.
Meanwhile, Justin Kodua, the General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has emphasized the party’s strong backing for the Ghana Police Service and their methods of maintaining law and order, including the use of force when deemed necessary.
Kodua’s remarks have sparked discussions as the country gears up for elections.
Kodua expressed the NPP’s unflinching support for the police, highlighting that the party endorses their actions, including the use of “brute force” under specific circumstances.
He noted that the police must be given the freedom to act decisively to maintain peace and security, especially during an election period.
Emphasis on Lawful Electoral Conduct
Urging citizens to focus on peaceful electoral participation, Kodua reminded Ghanaians of their civic responsibility to vote and allow law enforcement to ensure order.
“It’s an election, go express your view. Go and decide who you want to govern this country in the next four years.”
Justin Kodua General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP)
According to Kodua, the police should be supported in executing their mandate without interference, as their actions are crucial to safeguarding democracy.
Kodua reiterated that, while excessive force should not become the norm, there are circumstances where a firm response from the police is necessary.
“We don’t even need to get to that point for the police to be ruthless in dealing with certain people.”
Justin Kodua General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP)
This suggests a commitment to preventing electoral violence and ensuring that individuals who disrupt the process are dealt with swiftly.
While some applaud the NPP’s commitment to maintaining law and order, critics have raised concerns over the potential for abuse of power by the police.
Kodua’s repeated endorsement of the police force has fueled debates on the balance between security and human rights during elections.
The statement underscores the tension surrounding Ghana’s electoral process and the role of security agencies in ensuring peaceful and credible elections.
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