The Upper East Regional Chairman of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Alhaji Abdulai Mumuni Bolnaba, has appealed to delegates participating in the party's regional executive elections to ensure that peace remains the ultimate winner.
He said the party's collective objective was to retain political power to advance development, and that internal disagreements and conflicts could undermine that ambition and give the opposition an opportunity to capitalise on the situation.
"Whether you win or lose, you remain a member of the NDC, and our common goal is to keep the party in power. The Upper East Region is a peaceful region, and I am appealing to all delegates not to engage in any acts of violence that could mar the elections. Let us maintain peace for a successful election," he said.
Alhaji Bolnaba made the appeal in an interview with the media during the ongoing regional executive elections at the GNAT Hall in Bolgatanga, where 570 delegates are expected to cast their ballots.
A total of 50 candidates are contesting various positions, with candidates for two positions, including Communication Officer and Organiser, going unopposed.
Alhaji Bolnaba, who has served as the regional chairman since 2005, is seeking to retain his position.
His contender, Duncan Nsoh Ghaneba, expressed confidence in winning the election, saying delegates had become more discerning in making their choices.
"The days when money was splashed around to win elections are over because delegates have become wiser and more confident in their choices. I am hopeful of winning this election hands down," he told the media.
The Director of Elections, Donatus Nyaaba, also expressed confidence that the party would organise a successful regional congress.
Voting for the Women's Organiser and Youth Organiser positions had been completed at 11:50 a.m., and although the main elections were scheduled to commence at 12 noon, voting had yet to begin as of 1:26 p.m.
