Political Parties in Asawase Pledge to Uphold Peace During Elections

Political parties in the Asawase Constituency in Kumasi, one of the most politically sensitive areas in Ghana, have committed to maintaining peace during the upcoming December 7 general elections. The peace agreement was formalized through a peace pact signed by representatives from various political parties, underscoring their collective commitment to ensuring a peaceful electoral process both during and after the elections.

The event, which took place at the Central Mosque in Asawase, Kumasi, was part of a consultative dialogue and constituency-level peace pact organized by the Ashanti Regional Peace Council with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Political party representatives included those from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), the Convention People’s Party (CPP), the Great Consolidated Popular Party (GCPP), the People’s National Convention (PNC), the United Ghana Movement (GUM), the Progressive People’s Party (PPP), and the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG). These parties pledged to work together to ensure that Asawase stands out as an example of peace in the upcoming election.

However, one notable absence was that of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the largest opposition party. Despite this, the event proceeded with strong support from the other political groups, all of whom voiced their intent to create a peaceful environment and shift perceptions about Asawase, known for its history of electoral tension.

During the event, Most Rev. Prof. Emmanuel K. Asante, the former Chairman of the National Peace Council, spoke on the importance of a free, fair, and transparent election process. He emphasized that for the elections to be credible, they must reflect the will of the people. He also called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to ensure a level playing field for all political parties, stressing that the credibility of the process must be upheld to avoid accusations of bias or unfairness.

Addressing the issue of vigilantism, Most Rev. Asante condemned the practice of political parties hiring “machomen” (thugs) to intimidate voters at polling stations. He highlighted that this tactic undermines the integrity of the electoral process and prevents eligible citizens from exercising their right to vote. “What is the meaning of putting these machomen around centers? It means we do not understand the electoral process,” he remarked. He also pointed out that no one should be denied the right to vote due to intimidation and that political parties must ensure their supporters understand the electoral process to avoid voter suppression.

Moreover, Most Rev. Asante raised concerns about the number of rejected ballots in past elections and urged parties to educate their supporters on proper voting procedures to reduce this issue.

Harriet Takyi, a member of the Ashanti Regional Peace Council and a lecturer at KNUST, also addressed the gathering, encouraging both political parties and voters in Asawase to avoid actions that could disrupt the peaceful electoral process. She stressed that it was crucial for all parties to commit to the peace pact and ensure the constituency remains calm throughout the election period.

The police were also represented at the event, with Supt. Kingsley Kawodie, the Airport District Police Commander, assuring the public that robust security measures had been put in place to prevent violence and ensure a smooth election process in Asawase. He emphasized that the police would be vigilant in preventing any acts of intimidation and violence and in safeguarding the integrity of the election.

“I assure you; Asawase Constituency will prove a lot of people wrong in this year’s general elections. For the first time, you will witness a violence-free election here,” Supt. Kawodie stated. He further pledged to ensure the protection of ballot boxes to prevent any disputes and ensure that the election remains free, fair, and transparent. Additionally, he urged the public to provide credible information to the police during the election period to ensure security and maintain peace.

The signing of the peace pact by various political parties in the Asawase Constituency represents a significant step toward ensuring a peaceful electoral environment. With strong commitments from political leaders, the peace council, and the police, the hope is that Asawase will serve as a model for peaceful elections, with all parties working together to foster unity and respect for the democratic process.