Ashaiman Zongo leaders condemn politics of insults and propaganda ahead of 2024 Elections

As the 2024 elections draw closer, community leaders in Ashaiman Zongo have joined a growing number of Zongo communities in condemning the practice of using insults, deceit, and propaganda to win votes. 

This call for decency comes in response to some political parties resorting to name-calling and outright insults in their campaigns.

At a recent edition of Zongo Connect, a community engagement programme organised by Accra-based Iqra Radio, Ashaiman’s Zongo Chiefs urged political parties to focus on issue-based campaigns rather than divisive rhetoric. 

“This year's election is crucial, and we all have a role to play, especially the Chiefs and elders,” said the Zongo Chief of Ashaiman at the event on October 10, 2024. 

“We must continue to educate our people not to resort to insults or violence. Here in Ashaiman Zongo, we don't want politics to divide us because we are one people. The campaign should focus on development.”

The Chief likened the election process to a visit to the market, where voters must choose the best option without letting it divide the community. 

Another elder expressed concern over the politicisation of faith, condemning instances where Muslims in the Zongo communities have questioned each other's faith over political differences.

“Some political parties come to the Zongos and use us, especially the youth. This should not be the case,” the elder said. “It is disheartening to see a Muslim calling another Muslim names because of politics. This is unacceptable.”

Alhaji Issah, another speaker, pointed out that while lack of education and unemployment had historically made Zongo youth vulnerable to election-related violence, this trend has reduced significantly in Ashaiman due to improved access to education.

“Previously, politicians would come here with 20 cedis to recruit young people for violence, but this has decreased significantly thanks to education,” he observed, calling for more job opportunities to further engage the youth and prevent them from being exploited.

The Zongo Chiefs and elders agreed that the days of politics driven by handouts, such as rice and sugar, or by insults and propaganda, should be rejected in favour of a focus on development and meaningful issues. They called for more educational opportunities, job creation, and better support for health facilities.

The community also expressed gratitude to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for facilitating a scholarship in 2020, which enabled a brilliant student from Ashaiman to study medicine in Cuba as part of a government programme for needy but talented students. 

As the 2024 elections approach, Ashaiman’s Zongo leaders hope their message of unity and development resonates throughout Ghana’s Zongo communities.