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General News of Tuesday, 24 September 2024

Source: Joseph Odoom , Contributor

Alhaji Ibrahim Tanko urges Electoral Commission to prioritise transparency in 2024 elections

Alhaji Ibrahim Tanko Alhaji Ibrahim Tanko

Alhaji Ibrahim Tanko, the Prince of the Dagbon Royal Family and former President of the Dagbon Youth Association (DaYA) has called on Ghanaians, political parties, and the Electoral Commission (EC) to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible election as the country prepares for the upcoming general election on December 7, 2024.

In a statement, Alhaji Tanko emphasized the importance of accepting diverse political opinions, especially regarding the forensic audit recommendations for the voter registration process.

He urged the EC, led by Jean Mensa, to carefully consider concerns raised by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and other political stakeholders to prevent any electoral disputes.

Drawing on the lessons of electoral violence from countries like South Sudan, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Alhaji Tanko warned that Ghana must guard against any instability during the electoral process.

"This election carries significant weight, as, for the first time in our history, two presidential candidates from the North, our own brothers—are representing the two most powerful political parties in Ghana," he said.

According to him, this election is not just a battle of political ideologies but also a "brotherly competition," making it even more crucial for the Electoral Commission to uphold the integrity of the process.

He expressed that any mismanagement that leads to chaos would not be forgiven by the Ghanaian people, and the Commission must take responsibility for its actions or inactions.

Alhaji Tanko also highlighted the peace and stability that Ghana has enjoyed since the beginning of the Fourth Republic, stating that it is the responsibility of all citizens to protect this legacy.

"Our ancestors and forebears worked tirelessly to ensure that future generations, including ourselves, would live in a peaceful and prosperous country. We will resist any attempt to disrupt this peace," he added.

Reflecting on the economic challenges facing the country, such as the depreciation of the cedi, rising fuel prices, and general economic hardships, Alhaji Tanko noted that these issues would weigh heavily on voters' minds.

He expressed confidence that Ghanaians would assess the performance of the two major political parties and make their choices based on their lived experiences.

In a final plea, the Dagbon royal urged all Ghanaians to approach the election with peace and unity. He called on the Electoral Commission to ensure that the election results truly reflect the will of the people.