Anglican Church calls for violence-free elections

The Anglican Church of Ghana has called on Ghanaians, political parties and candidates to ensure a peaceful and violence-free electoral process as the country heads to the polls on December 7, 2024. 

It stressed the importance of unity, tolerance and respect during this critical period in Ghana’s democratic history.

In a statement signed by the Most Rev. Dr Cyril Kobina Ben-Smith, Archbishop of the Internal Province of Ghana, the Church urged registered voters to approach the elections with a sense of responsibility, exercising their civic duty by casting their ballots peacefully and refraining from any acts that could disrupt the democratic process.

"The upcoming elections present a crucial moment in our nation’s history," the statement said.  

"We implore all registered voters to cast their ballots peacefully and responsibly, remembering that their vote is a powerful instrument for shaping the future of our beloved nation," it said. 

Partisanship

The Anglican Church also appealed to political candidates and parties to prioritise the well-being and progress of the nation above partisan interests.  It further urged candidates to accept the election results with grace, as declared by the Electoral Commission, and avoid any actions that could jeopardise Ghana’s stability. 

“To the candidates contesting the elections, we appeal for your commitment to accepting the outcome of the electoral process with dignity,” the Church stated.  

“The development agenda of our nation should not be stalled by post-election disputes. Let the will of the people prevail,” the Archbishop said.  

Tension

As Ghana prepares for the elections, the call for peace resonates strongly in a country celebrated as a beacon of democracy in Africa.  

The statement underscored the church’s spiritual and moral leadership in advocating peace and unity, encouraging Ghanaians to pray fervently for the nation and for a smooth electoral process.  

It stressed that every citizen had a role to play in ensuring that the elections contributed to the peace and prosperity of Ghana.

“May God bless Ghana and guide our nation towards a peaceful and prosperous future,” it said.  —  GNA