The guest speaker, Rev. Dr. Kwabena Opuni-Frimpong, a senior lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and former General Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana, reflected on the nation\u2019s electoral history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He commended Ghana for successfully transitioning power between governing and opposition parties on three occasions under the Fourth Republic. However, he raised concerns about incidents of electoral violence, including fatalities during both general and by-elections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cElections are about identifying leadership, and leadership is about service,\u201d Rev. Dr. Opuni-Frimpong emphasized. \u201cWhy should a search for leadership lead to the deaths of citizens who are the focus of leadership and development?\u201d he questioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Reverend enumerated factors contributing to electoral violence in Ghana’s eight elections under the Fourth Republic, citing cheating, ethnocentrism, monetization, manipulation, and majority dictatorship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He highlighted the crucial role of the church and other religious bodies in promoting calm and advocacy during electoral periods. \u201cNetworking among ecumenical partners, including the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG), Ghana Catholic Bishops\u2019 Conference (GCBC), the Office of the National Chief Imam, and the Ahmadiyya Movement, strengthens our ability to present a united religious front in matters of national interest,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Youth as Ambassadors of Peace<\/strong> Promoting Peace as a Cornerstone of Democracy<\/strong> He described elections as a celebration of democracy and an opportunity for citizens to choose leaders who shape the nation\u2019s future. However, he noted that elections can also become a test of commitment to peace, unity, and stability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Prof. Ofosu-Anim underscored the significance of peace during elections, stating, \u201cPeace fosters a conducive environment for free and fair elections. Moreover, it ensures that every citizen can participate without fear of intimidation or violence, promoting respect for differing viewpoints and healthy dialogue.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n He further stressed that peace strengthens national unity and promotes sustainable development. \u201cInstability drains national resources and distracts from pressing issues like education, healthcare, and economic growth. A peaceful election allows us to focus on policies and programmes that matter most to citizens,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Role of Media and Institutions<\/strong> He advocated for strengthening institutions and legal frameworks to ensure transparency and accountability in the electoral process.\u201cStrong institutions build trust among citizens, encouraging respect for election outcomes even when they don\u2019t align with personal preferences,\u201d he noted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Call to Action<\/strong> The event was a resounding call for stakeholders to work collaboratively to ensure a peaceful election season, reinforcing Ghana\u2019s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Addressing the youth, Rev. Dr. Opuni-Frimpong cautioned them against being manipulated by politicians into acts of violence. He encouraged them to focus on contributing positively to national development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Vice-Chancellor of Presbyterian University, Ghana and Peace Ambassador to the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Prof. John Ofosu-Anim, also delivered an inspiring address.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.presbyuniversity.edu.gh\/site\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/IMG_7785.jpg?resize=640%2C427&ssl=1\")
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Prof. Ofosu-Anim emphasized the media’s responsibility to promote peace through accurate and fair reporting, while cautioning against sensationalism that could inflame tensions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Both speakers urged all Ghanaians to commit to peace, stressing that the true test of democracy lies in unity amidst diversity. \u201cTogether, let us choose peace, for it is the foundation upon which our democracy\u2014and our future\u2014will stand,\u201d Prof. Ofosu-Anim concluded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n