February 11, 2025

Peace Council Spots Nine Hotspots and 42 Flashpoints in Kasoa

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Peace Council

Ahead of Ghana’s upcoming December 7 election, the National Peace Council (NPC) has identified nine constituencies in the Central Region as potential hotspots for electoral unrest. These areas, including Awutu-Senya-East, Effutu, Agona-West, Assin-North, Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese, Cape Coast-North, Twifo-Hemang-Lower-Denkyira, and Upper-Denkyira-West and East, are under increased scrutiny due to their history of political tensions.

Among these regions, the Awutu-Senya-East Constituency, particularly the Kasoa area, has been highlighted as the most critical, with 42 flashpoints identified. Kasoa, known for its overall calm, stands out as a focal point of concern for the authorities due to recent political developments. The NPC’s findings were revealed by Right Reverend Richardson Aboagye Andam, the Regional Chairman of the Peace Council, during the Ghana First Youth Symposium at the University of Cape Coast. The symposium, organized by Youth Vision International in partnership with the Peace Council, focused on youth empowerment and national peace-building.

Reverend Andam, speaking on the theme “Putting Ghana First,” assured the public that the Peace Council, with support from its partners, had been engaging all relevant stakeholders in efforts to prevent electoral violence. He stated that security agencies were closely monitoring the identified hotspots and would act swiftly should any signs of unrest appear.

He appealed to Ghanaians, especially the youth, to be tolerant and respectful of differing opinions. He emphasized that such attitudes are crucial for fostering social harmony and preventing election-related violence. The Peace Council stressed that these values are essential not only for peaceful elections but also for long-term national stability. Reverend Andam also called on the public to reject the practice of vote-buying and selling, which he described as a deeply rooted issue contributing to political corruption and hindering national progress. He pointed out that no amount of financial inducement should influence voters to forsake their civic responsibilities.

Additionally, Reverend Andam emphasized that politicians who attempt to manipulate voters with money or gifts undermine Ghana’s democratic values. Such actions, he argued, ultimately harm the electoral process and the nation’s democratic principles.

Madam Araba Aikins, Assistant Director at the Cape Coast Metro office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), also addressed the gathering. She called on youth activists affiliated with political parties to uphold Ghana’s electoral regulations, ensuring that the elections are conducted peacefully and orderly. She urged young political activists to demonstrate responsibility in their actions and not allow themselves to be exploited by politicians seeking to gain electoral advantage through unscrupulous means.

Mr. Richard Ohene-Kwashie, a representative from Vision Youth International, reiterated the organization’s commitment to empowering the youth for the advancement of Ghana. He stressed that peace is invaluable and should be prioritized above all else. He urged young people to recognize the importance of maintaining the stability of the nation, warning that any actions that undermine Ghana’s peace would have dire consequences for the country’s future.

The NPC’s proactive stance, supported by various stakeholders, highlights the significance of maintaining peace in the lead-up to the election. The identification of hotspots and the encouragement of responsible behavior from political parties and voters are seen as vital steps in mitigating the risks of violence and promoting a fair and peaceful electoral process. The Peace Council’s efforts underscore the need for transparency and respect for the electoral system, ensuring that Ghana’s democratic process remains strong and intact.

   As the country approaches the election date, it is clear that ensuring peace, promoting tolerance, and rejecting electoral malpractice are essential to maintaining Ghana’s reputation as a stable democracy. The NPC’s efforts, along with the commitment of civil society organizations and youth groups, will play a crucial role in ensuring that the elections are conducted peacefully, fairly, and with integrity. The ultimate goal is to ensure that Ghana’s democratic process remains unharmed and that the peaceful transition of power, which the country is known for, continues.

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