Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, the President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, has emphasized the collective responsibility of maintaining peace during elections.
Speaking on ABC in the Morning on Thursday, he addressed the rising tensions fueled by the anxiety of political activists who fear losing after significant efforts in their campaigns.
“To have peace is a responsibility of all of us, both the political activists and their followers,” he stated, underscoring the need for a calm and peaceful election atmosphere.
Rev. Gyamfi urged all Ghanaians, particularly party supporters, to embrace the reality that elections come with the possibility of losing.
“Those who are competing must be aware that it is possible for them to lose. They must acknowledge this hard fact. And this is not the last election; there will be other opportunities where they can package their messages better to convince the people,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of resilience in the democratic process, he reiterated that elections are not “a do or die affair” but rather an ongoing opportunity to contribute to national development.
The stakes for democracy in 2024 are particularly high, with nearly half of the global population eligible to participate in elections.
While elections serve as a crucial mechanism for promoting the rule of law and fostering inclusive participation, they can also spark polarization and unrest.
Rev. Gyamfi’s message comes as a reminder of Ghana’s reputation for peaceful transitions, urging citizens to avoid violence and uphold the nation’s democratic integrity.
He concluded with a call to action: “Every Ghanaian must play their part to ensure the 2024 elections reinforce our democratic values rather than undermine them.”
