The Board Chairman of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Rev. Prof. Paul Frimpong-Manso, has urged Ghanaians to commit to a peaceful electoral process when the nation goes to the polls on Saturday, December 7, 2024.

In a statement signed by the Board Chairman of the Commission, Rev. Prof. Paul Frimpong-Manso, the Commission called on Ghanaians to fully participate in the election in a manner devoid of gun and other related violence.

“Fellow Ghanaians, as we prepare for the 2024 General Elections, let us cherish the opportunity it offers us to deepen and strengthen our democracy. Let us take advantage of this opportunity to recommit to the values that define our great and dear nation: values of peace, unity, love, patience, kindness, tolerance, restraint, and respect for each other.

“Gun and other related violence have no place in our electoral process. It only breeds fear, intimidation, division, loss, and pain. All over the world, Ghanaians are known as peace-loving and democratic people. It is our turn as citizens to prove the world right. May we remember as we vote that every act of violence tears us apart while every act of peace, tolerance, restraint, and patience binds us together,” the statement said.

The Commission also urged stakeholders, including political leaders, to engage in dialogue instead of confrontation while advocating for tolerance over conflict.

The Commission further called on Ghanaians to respect the rule of law in preserving Ghana’s democracy.

“To our leaders, voters, and communities, I appeal to you to choose dialogue over confrontation and tolerance over conflict. To every citizen, let us participate in the electoral process, respect the rule of law, and maintain peace. Let us remain vigilant and resolute in rejecting violence in all its forms. Remember, Ghana's democratic gains are worth preserving! So, let us work together to ensure a peaceful and successful electoral process,” the Commission added.

Ghana’s voter population of over 18 million will go to the polls on Saturday to elect a president and parliamentary representatives to form the country’s next government.

Read the full statement below:

A Message of Peace from the Board Chairman of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons

Fellow Ghanaians, as we prepare for the 2024 General Elections, let us cherish the opportunity it offers us to deepen and strengthen our democracy. Let us take advantage of this opportunity to recommit to the values that define our great and dear nation; values of peace, unity, love, patience, kindness, tolerance, restraint and respect for each other.

Gun and other related violence have no place in our electoral process. It only breeds fear, intimidation, division, loss and pain. All over the world, Ghanaians are known as peace-loving and democratic people. It is our turn as citizens to prove the world right. May we remember as we vote that every act of violence tears us apart while every act of peace, tolerance, restraint and patience binds us together.

To our leaders, voters and communities, I appeal to you to choose dialogue over confrontation and tolerance over conflict. To every citizen, let us participate in the electoral process, respect the rule of law, and maintain peace. Let us remain vigilant, and resolute in rejecting violence in all its forms.

Remember, Ghana's democratic gains are worth preserving! So, let us work together to ensure a peaceful and successful electoral process.

May peace prevail in our land and may God bless Ghana.

Rev. Prof. Paul Frimpong-Manso

Board Chairman, National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons

GA/AE

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