Sekondi, Nov. 12, GNA - The Western Regional Electoral Security Task Force (WRESTF) has noted with great concern the heightened political tension resulting partly from unguarded utterances from the political activists and some social commentators on radio discussion and phone-in programmes. "The activities of some "keep fit clubs" have also given rise for concern as they undermine the Public Order Act 491," the WRESTF said. A statement issued and signed by Commodore Frank Daley, Chairman of the WRESTF, cited recent incidents that has happened in Tamale, Cape Coast, Old Fadama, Agbloboshie and Sefwi-Akontombra and said that if stakeholders do not take prompt and appropriate measures, such incidents could escalate into general violence that would undermine the integrity of the forthcoming elections.

The statement noted that Ghana has gone through four peaceful democratic elections without any hitch, adding, "The upcoming fifth general elections in December should take place without a hitch". The statement observed that the international community held Ghana in high esteem as far as elections and democratic practices were concerned and this achievement must be safeguarded. "We should, therefore, strive to maintain this enviable standard," the statement said and urged "Media houses in the region to exercise their gate-keeping role by sieving out inflammatory and unguarded statements in their programmes, so as not to inflame passions' it said. The statement encourages all organizers of special events such as carnivals, processions and parades to comply with the law.