Achieving peaceful elections in Ghana

As Ghana's December 7th Presidential and parliamentary elections draw closer, concerns are being raised about the inability of political parties to reach an accord. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has outlined six conditions that must be met before signing a peace pact, introducing a new layer of complexity to an already tense political landscape. The key theme in the lead-up to the elections revolves around ensuring a peaceful and fair electoral process amidst growing mistrust and tension within the political system. The demand for key government officials to sign the peace pact highlights the urgency of addressing issues related to vigilantism, electoral violence, and accountability within the Ghanaian political sphere. Esther Tawiah, the Founder and Executive Director at the Gender Centre for Empowering Development, sheds light on the significance of these conditions and the implications they hold for the upcoming elections. One of the primary concerns raised by the NDC is the prevalence of vigilantism and political violence that marred the 2020 elections. Despite the existence of laws such as the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act of 2019, incidents of violence, casualties, and electoral offenses were reported during the last electoral cycle. The NDC argues that the current framework lacks the teeth to prosecute wrongdoers and hold them accountable for their actions. This lack of accountability has fostered a culture of impunity, with individuals responsible for violence and electoral misconduct evading punishment. It is essential to address these underlying issues to promote a peaceful and transparent electoral process. By calling for the President, the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief Justice, the National Security Coordinator, and the Attorney General to sign the peace pact, the NDC aims to emphasize the need for robust enforcement of electoral laws and swift justice for offenders. Moreover, the demands made by the NDC reflect broader concerns around transparency, trust, and inclusivity in the electoral process. Issues such as voter registration irregularities, the theft of biometric voter registration kits, and challenges related to women's participation in politics underscore the complexity of ensuring a free and fair election. The lack of access to vital information, such as the final voter register, has fueled mistrust among political parties and the electorate, further exacerbating tensions in the run-up to the elections. It is crucial to address these systemic challenges to strengthen democratic governance and uphold the principles of accountability and transparency. Esther Tawiah's insights highlight the urgent need for comprehensive electoral reforms and mechanisms to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process in Ghana. By scrutinizing the actions of key government officials and calling for accountability at all levels of governance, the NDC seeks to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and prevent the recurrence of past electoral irregularities. As the country prepares for a crucial electoral moment, the willingness of political parties to engage in constructive dialogue and adhere to the rule of law will be instrumental in fostering a peaceful and inclusive democratic transition. The upcoming elections represent a pivotal moment for Ghana's democratic trajectory, and the successful implementation of the NDC's conditions could pave the way for a more transparent and accountable political environment in the country.