Ahead of the crucial December 7 general elections, a group of religious leaders have appealed to the public to support the Electoral Commission and protect it from all forms of undue intimidation and harassments.

According to the Coalition of Religious Clergymen, it is incumbent on the general public and civil society groups to support and protect the electoral body from being harrased or exploited by any individual or political groups for their own parochial interests.

At a peaceful through some principal streets of Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital, the respected men of God expressed worry that the EC, which has been a sacrosanct electoral body and has steered several successful elections in the 4th Republic, is being maligned by some groups for no justifiable cause, a situation which according to them, does not augur well for the peace and development of our democracy.

The peaceful walk comes in the wake of what the Coalition describes as unwarranted attacks and intimidation of the EC by some political groups leading to unnecessary political tension.

According to them, they have absolute trust in the ability of the EC to steer this year's elections as they have always done and are therefore calling on the public to rally behind them.

"We declare publicly our trust in the EC’s ability to execute its constitutional mandate without fear or favour. The Electoral Commission is at the forefront of our democracy, bearing the immense responsibility of ensuring the will of the people is freely expressed and accurately reflected. We stand firmly behind them in this endeavour, encouraging all citizens and political stakeholders to do the same." The Coalition noted.

As religious leaders and men committed to a peaceful society, the Coalition stated that they believe they have a major role to play and that the EC, backed by its long-standing experience and professional competence, can conduct a free, fair, credible and transparent election.

"We are therefore calling on all political actors, civil society groups, and citizens to provide the Electoral Commission with the necessary support and space to function effectively without undue pressure or interference.

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