Former President John Mahama has urged President Akufo-Addo to resist the temptation to resort to violence and intimidation in the upcoming December polls.

“As we go to the polls in 2020, President Nana Akufo-Addo has a responsibility to secure the safety of all citizens and must resist the temptation to allow the use of violence to harm and intimidate innocent civilians as we observed last year during the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election,” he said in a new year message to Ghanaians.

He also advised Ghanaians to choose a government that creates opportunities for all and not just for a few when they go to the polls on December 7.

According to him, Ghana deserves a government that does not shirk responsibilities but is forthright and responsible to the citizenry.

“The year 2020 is an election year, and the eyes of the world would continue to be fixed on us, as we go to the polls. We need to meet the high standards set by previous Electoral Commissions and even better it. I do not say it lightly when I say that the 2020 election will be a pivotal event for our country. It is one that will determine the destiny of our nation. I believe at this critical stage in our nation’s life, Ghanaians deserve- more than ever- a government that is honest and truthful with them”.

He stressed voters require: “A government that takes responsibility and gives them results, not excuses or blame. A government that opens the opportunities of our country to all its people, and not just a few. 2019 was a difficult year for Ghanaian businesses and by extension affected the quality of life in many Ghanaian homes. In my rounds, I have met many business persons who are in despair that their enterprises are collapsing and they can no longer hold it together. To all my countrymen and women, I urge you to keep hope alive. It is said that “the darkest hour, is before the dawn”. We can change things, and make our nation better”.

Mr. Mahama also reiterated his desire to continue to engage in peaceful politics.

“On my part, I will continue to work for peace and I urge the President to do same. As a first step, I suggest he stops shielding the perpetrators of the violence at Ayawaso West Wuogon. He must have them face the appropriate sanctions. My brothers and sisters, the New Year is here. May God grant us a peaceful, prosperous and victorious New Year”.