Nurturing democracy: Imperative of peaceful elections, informed voting

As Ghana approaches the December 7 elections, the need for peaceful elections and informed voting becomes increasingly crucial.

These themes echo powerfully in Debbie World’s poignant poem, “Let the Election’s Rain Fall.” 

Her words remind us that peaceful elections are not just a nice idea; they are essential to maintaining Ghana’s hard-won democracy. In a country where democracy has been achieved through significant struggle, we must continue to uphold the principles that support it.

Ghana’s journey to independence was filled with challenges and sacrifices, emphasising the importance of respectful electoral processes. The hard work of those who fought for our independence must not be forgotten.

It is our responsibility to ensure that elections respect the voices of all citizens. This includes allowing for different opinions and fostering an environment where everyone feels safe to express their views.

Elections free from intimidation are crucial; when voters feel threatened, they may withdraw from the process altogether.

This erosion of trust can weaken our democracy. Politicians, therefore, have a crucial duty to respect the choices of voters and to stay away from bribery or coercive tactics that could skew the electoral outcome.

Peaceful elections

The importance of peaceful elections cannot be overstated. They provide the foundation for true democracy, allowing citizens to choose their leaders without fear. Recently, several organisations have launched initiatives to promote peace during elections.

For instance, the National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE) has run “Civic Education Campaigns” and

“Peace Dialogues and Workshops”. These efforts are vital as they educate citizens about the importance of participating peacefully in elections. 

Similarly, the National Peace Council has engaged in “Civic Education and Voter Awareness” programmes, as well as signing a Peace Pact to promote a harmonious atmosphere during the electoral period. Such initiatives play a significant role in ensuring that individuals and communities understand the value of civil discourse, even among opposing political views.

As citizens prepare to cast their votes, it is important to look beyond party affiliation. Voters should consider candidates based on their abilities, qualifications and visions for the future of the country.

When we rely solely on party loyalty, we risk choosing leaders who may not serve the best interests of Ghana. Instead, we should focus on the candidates’ track records and policies regarding pressing issues like the economy, unemployment, healthcare and education.

Informed voters will more likely select leaders who are committed to making meaningful changes. This shift towards evaluating candidates on merit rather than party lines illustrates a maturing democracy, where the electorate is empowered to make considered choices.

Young voters

Another crucial aspect of this electoral process is the active involvement of young people. Ghana boasts a youthful population, making their engagement in elections essential. The NCCE has recognised this need with its “Engaging Youth Activists” initiative.

This programme aims to educate young people about the importance of peace, tolerance and the risks associated with violent extremism.

Rather than allowing their energies to be directed toward violence –negative behaviour– they can channel their enthusiasm into positive civic engagement. 

Young voters not only have the potential to impact election results, but they also possess fresh perspectives on pressing issues that directly affect their lives. Issues such as job creation and educational reforms matter greatly to them.

Initiatives like “Youth Vote Count” encourage young individuals to register and become well-informed advocates for their future. By participating in elections, they can voice their concerns and push for policies that genuinely reflect their needs.

This grassroots involvement is crucial for enriching the democratic landscape, ensuring that candidates pay more attention to youth-driven policies.

As we approach the elections, organisations involved in voter education should increase their outreach efforts. 

Workshops and community forums are effective ways to empower citizens with the knowledge to navigate the election process. These platforms can clarify voting procedures, explain electoral rights and foster discussions about the consequences of the choices we face. By demystifying the voting process, we create a more informed electorate.

The more we know, the better equipped we are to make decisions that align with our goals and values.

Misinformation

Tackling misinformation is another essential element in our efforts to promote informed voting. In this digital age, false information can spread rapidly, creating confusion and distrust. Thus, credible sources of information must be readily available and accessible to the public.

Media literacy initiatives should be included in civic education to educate citizens on how to evaluate the information they encounter. This equips voters to discern between facts and misleading narratives, ensuring they make choices based on truth rather than fear or deception.

As we anticipate the upcoming elections, we must draw inspiration from Debbie World’s poem. Her call to action inspires us to uphold peaceful electoral processes and make informed decisions.

Let us make our voices heard, educate ourselves and others and safeguard the democracy we cherish. The upcoming elections are a pivotal moment for our nation.

With collective effort and dedication, we can ensure that these elections not only reflect our values but also represent a significant step towards a prosperous and unified Ghana. Together, we can nurture our democratic ideals into a thriving reality for generations to come.

The writer is a political scientist.