Remain calm, respect rule of law in aftermath of elections - Catholic Bishops urge citizens

The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) has admonished Ghanaians to remain calm in the aftermath of last Saturday’s general election.

“We also strongly encourage you to respect the rule of law and the outcome of the elections. In the spirit of democratic maturity, it is essential that any disagreements be addressed through legal and peaceful means, without resorting to violence or intimidation,” it said.

It said the values of peace, justice and solidarity were required to move the country forward in a post-election period.

“Let us come together to face the challenges ahead, and with God’s guidance, work towards a prosperous, peaceful and just nation for all,” it said.

It reminded citizens that the country’s democratic journey was a gift they must continue to cherish and safeguard.

This was contained in a message issued in Accra yesterday and signed by its President, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi.

Commendation

The GCBC commended the Electoral Commission (EC) and all political parties for carrying out a generally successful election, and for their active participation in the election process, adding that “your role in shaping the direction of our nation cannot be overstated”.

It encouraged the commission to continue building trust by upholding the highest standards of transparency and impartiality.

It said as the custodians of the electoral process, the EC must engage in constant dialogue with all stakeholders, particularly political parties, CSOs and the electorate to address any concern. 

“We urge you also to uphold your commitment to fairness and work towards reducing any potential flaws in the system that could undermine public confidence in future elections,” it said.

The statement further stressed the importance of unity in diversity, saying, “political competition should be a vehicle for promoting national progress, not division”.

It urged the parties to let the elections serve as a reminder of their shared responsibility by working together, irrespective of affiliations, for the betterment of the nation.

“Democracy is not solely about winning or losing elections but about building a society where all citizens can thrive in peace and dignity,” it said.

The statement encouraged every citizen to actively participate in nation-building beyond the election cycle “by holding elected leaders accountable and working towards the common good of all”. 
 

Media 

The statement also urged the media to remain objective, accurate and responsible in their reporting.

It said it was vital that the media served as a forum for constructive dialogue, promoting peace, unity and national cohesion.

The GCBC, therefore, appealed to journalists to avoid sensationalism, hate speech and misinformation, which can exacerbate division and unrest. 

“Let your work be guided by truth and love for the common good of all citizens,” it added.